Installation Manual

Automatic Durabowl
Control System

Technical Support
International – 1-804-569-1000
Domestic – 1-866-460-7263

These original instructions were written in English.

QubicaAMF Part # 610‐490‐207 Rev. “D”
 

 
 

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

All rights to this manual including the diagrams, figures, and technical specifications are the
property of QubicaAMF Bowling Products, Inc. Reproduction or transmission of any of the
material contained in this manual without the prior written permission of QubicaAMF Bowling
Products, Inc. is strictly prohibited. All of the product information in this manual was carefully
prepared based on the latest information available and was believed to be correct at the time
of printing. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, this publication may
inadvertently contain typographical errors, inaccuracies, or errors of omission. QubicaAMF
Bowling Products, Inc. cannot be held responsible for any claims resulting from these errors.

DOCUMENT UPDATES

QubicaAMF Bowling Products, Inc. reserves the right to revise and/or update this manual at any
time without obligation to notify any person or entity of such revision. The document number,
revision level, and date below indicate the edition of this manual.

TRADEMARK NOTICES

QubicaAMF and the QubicaAMF logo are the registered trademarks of QubicaAMF Bowling
Worldwide, Inc.

QubicaAMF TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Technical Support: (International) 804.730.4000 - (Domestic) 1-866-460-7263

QubicaAMF Bowling Products, Inc.

8100 AMF Drive
Mechanicsville, Va. 23111

 
Copyright © 1999, 2009, & 2012 QubicaAMF Bowling Products, Inc.
Document #610-490-207 Rev. D
Issued Date: 04/05/2012

 
 
 
 

 QubicaAMF  
Automatic Durabowl Control System
Installation Manual, 610-490-207, Rev. D
 

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Change No. ECR No.

Rev. D 12-0096

List of Effective Pages

Page Change No. Effective Date
All Original 08/06/1997
All Rev. D 04/05/2012

       
 

 
 

 
 

Table of Contents
 

1.0 Introduction ........................................................................................................... 1

2.0 Safety Information ................................................................................................ 3

2.1 Safety labels .............................................................................................. 3

3.0 System Description and Installation ...................................................................... 5

3.1 Bowling Center Requirements ................................................................... 5
3.2 Kit Contents ............................................................................................... 5
3.3 Recommended Tool List ............................................................................ 6
3.4 Parts and Materials List ............................................................................. 7
3.5 Air System Description............................................................................... 8
3.6 Electrical Control System ........................................................................... 9
3.7 Installation.................................................................................................. 10

4.0 Maintenance and Repair ...................................................................................... 16

Assembly Drawings .............................................................................................. 19
Auto Opener Assembly ......................................................................................... 19
Air System Layout (typical) ................................................................................... 20
Air Header and Control Diagram .......................................................................... 21
Air Regular Assembly ........................................................................................... 22
BCU Keypad ......................................................................................................... 22
Valve Control Assembly ....................................................................................... 22

 
 
Automatic Durabowl Control System Installation

1.0 Introduction
This manual contains the procedures and information necessary for installing the Durabowl
Bumper Automatic Control Upgrade Package, P/N 049-007-130. This installation consists of:
• Replacing a portion of the first bumper section with an assembly that contains a pneumatic
cylinder and associated hardware,
• Installing an air header along the curtain wall,
• Mounting the12-volt DC power supply(ies) and control modules containing solenoid-operated
control valves,
• Installing the air lines to the pneumatic cylinders.

Wiring and configuring the BCU2 Pneumatic Control Modules and Keypad is covered in the BCU2
Installation and Setup Manual, 400-049-002.

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2.0 Safety

• Wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields when using power tools.

• Keep power cords and extension cords away from the bumpers. Bumper operation can
cut the cords presenting an electrical shock hazard. 

• The metal parts of the system can have sharp edges. Work gloves are recommended. 

• Bumpers present severe pinching and shearing hazards. Always block the bumpers up
when working on them in the raised position.

• Oiled lanes are slippery. Strip the lanes before working on the bumpers.

• Compressed air can cause dirt and debris to become airborne presenting an eye hazard.
Depressurize the air lines before disconnecting them.

• Wear hearing protection in the vicinity of an operating air compressor.

• The bumper system is designed to operate remotely and/or automatically from the front
desk and the scoring system. Keep clear during testing. Disable automatic operation
before working on the system.

2.1 Safety Labels

The following safety labels are used throughout this manual to notify the user of potential hazards
and to indicate when personnel protective equipment (PPE) is recommended.
 

This symbol means read the

This symbol means a
technical manual before working
potential hazard exists.
on the equipment.

This symbol means that the

This symbol means that eye
equipment may cycle without
protection is required.
warning.

This symbol means that a This symbol means that hearing

shearing hazard exists. protection is required.

This symbol means that the

This symbol instructs the user to
equipment is designed to
wear gloves to protect the hands
cycle automatically under
from sharp objects.
certain conditions.

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3.0 System Description and Installation

3.1 Bowling Center Requirements (items to be supplied by the Bowling Center)

Air Compressor

For small to medium-size centers we suggest a 5-hp / 25-gallon capacity model. Some models
come configured to operate on 110 volts, but can be converted to 220-volt operation for greater
operating efficiency. Check the manufacturer’s literature for specifics about any compressor you
are considering. These compressors typically operate at approximately 90-115 psi.

Larger bowling centers (greater than 32 lanes) should consider a larger commercial duty
compressor. These compressors typically have larger air reservoirs, cast iron cylinders, and are oil
lubricated for longer life. Some centers, depending on their layout, might consider designing split
systems with each having its own compressor and pressure regulator. Each air compressor
should have a dedicated electrical circuit of the correct voltage and current ratings.

Air compressors must be mounted in such a way as to prevent them from moving during operation.
A running compressor’s vibration can cause it to “walk” if not anchored properly resulting in
damage to the air system or compressor. Vertical compressors (compressor and motor mounted
on top of a vertical tank) can be top heavy and must be securely mounted. Follow the compressor
manufacturer’s mounting recommendations.

Flexible Air Supply Line

This 3/8” I.D. hose will run from the air compressor to the air pressure regulator on the curtain wall.
This air line can be purchased at any hardware store.

3.2 Kit Contents

 
The following is a list of major components you will find in the various packages included with the
Automatic Durabowl Bumper Control System along with a brief description of their functions. This
list does not include all components such as hardware and couplers.
 
Air Manifold Kit: 049-007-197 (one for each 8 lanes)

Flexible Tubing - 50’ roll, 3/8” O.D. Used to construct the main air header.

Tee Assemblies - 3/8” to ¼”. Used to connect the main air header to the valve control
assemblies.

Power Supply Assembly – 12-volt dc used to power the control relay modules, solenoid valves,
and control keypad.

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Control Box Kit: 049-007-162 (one for each 99 lanes)

Air Regulator Assembly - Built-in filter and pressure gauge (0-150 psi). Includes hose clamp for
connecting flexible hose from the air compressor.

Signal Wire - 4 conductor, 250’ spool. Used to connect control relay modules together and to
connect to the Control Keypad.

Valve Control Assemblies: 049-007-163 (one for each pair of lanes)

Includes solenoid-operated valves, control relay module (BUM-BOX-BCU2), and mounting plate.

Control Keypad: BUM-KEY-BCU (one for each 99 lanes) - Can remotely control the operation of
the bumpers and is used to assign addresses to the control relay modules (BCU2 interface boxes).

Auto Opener Kit: 049-007-161(one for each pair of lanes)

Auto Opener Subassemblies – Left- and right-side pneumatic assemblies contain an angle base,
air cylinder, activator arm, and return spring.

Flexible Tubing - ¼” OD, 95’ rolls. Used to connect the air cylinders to the solenoid-operated
control valves.

3.3 Recommended Tool List

# 2 & # 3 Phillips Bits for screw gun or drill, regular length and 6” length
Cordless Drill, preferably with keyless chuck, minimum of 9.6 volts
Electric Drill, ½” Drive Chalk Line
Saw with metal cutting blade Pair of Wire Strippers
1-1/16” Hole Saw for Cordless Drill Claw Hammer
100’ Extension Cords (2) Vise Clamps
25’ Extension Cord 30’ Tape Measure
Utility Knife Permanent Marker
Slip Joint Pliers Roll of Teflon Tape
¼” Ratchet with 7/16” Socket Small Regular Screwdriver
Safety Glasses 3/8”, 7/16”, 5/8” & 10-mm Box End Wrenches

We have designed the installation using as many standard hand tools as possible. This may look
like a long list of tools, but having the right tool at the right time will save time, frustration, and most
importantly, money. Safety Glasses should be worn at all times.

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3.4 Parts and Materials List

The following is a list of materials that make up the Automatic Durabowl Control System. Whether
upgrading an existing Durabowl System or installing on a new installation, the parts and the
installation procedures are the same.

QubicaAMF Part # Description Quantity

049-007-027 # 14 x 2” Lag Screw 4 per pair

049-007-094 3/8” to 3/8” Coupling 2 per 32 lanes
049-007-097 3/8” to ¼” Tee Assembly 4 per 8 lanes
049-007-098 Flex Tubing, 3/8” O.D. x 50’ Roll 1 per 8 lanes
049-007-099 3/8” Plug 3 per 32 lanes
049-007-124 Shoulder Bolt, M6 x 26L, Phillips Head 4 per pair
049-007-163 Valve Control Assembly 1 per pair
049-007-171 Power Supply Assembly, 12-Volt (includes mounting plate) 1 per 8 lanes
049-007-172 Signal Wire (250’) 1 per 32 lanes
049-007-173 Auto Opener Assembly – Left 2 per pair
049-007-174 Auto Opener Assembly – Right 2 per pair
049-007-177 Spare Parts Bag 1 per 32 lanes
049-007-178 Return Spring 4 per pair
049-007-179 Spring Hook Bracket 4 per pair
049-007-180 Regulator Assembly w/ Filter 1 per 32 lanes
090-008-126 Cable Assembly, Camera to Bumper Control 1 per pair
400-049-002 BCU2 Installation Manual 1 per job
610-490-207 Automatic Control System Installation Manual 1 per job
612-049-002 Hardware Bag 1 per pair
718-808-034 ¼” Push Lock Tee Fitting 2 per pair
770-011-237 Tie Wraps – 11” 24 per pair
809-749-100 ¼ – 20 x 5/8” Bolt 4 per pair
812-539-160 Screw # 10-24 x 1 8 per pair
814-826-200 # 6 x 1¼ Bugle Head Screw 8 per pair
821-540-910 Screw # 10 x 1, Self-drilling 4 per pair
839-539-002 Nut, 10-24, Nylon Locking 8 per pair
843-149-002 ¼ – 20 Keps Locknut 4 per pair
872-062-017 Nut, M6-1, Nylon Locking 4 per pair
940-472-015 ¼” O.D. Polyurethane Tubing – 95’ roll 2 rolls per pair
BUM-KEY-BCU Bumper Keypad 1 per 99 lanes

General Information

The Durabowl Bumper Auto Control System is designed to convert the manually operated
Durabowl Bumper System into a bumper system that can either be controlled completely
automatically by BOSS or QubicaAMF Scoring Systems, or from the front desk using the keypad
provided. The Auto Control System has two main subsystems: a pneumatic system that provides
the motive force, and an electrical control system. An overview is provided below followed by
specific instructions for installing the system. Take the time to read the overviews before
proceeding to the actual installation steps. They provide helpful information.

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3.5 Air System Description

The pneumatic system contains a main air header along the curtain wall above lanes that have
bumpers installed on them, and solenoid-operated valves that control the flow of air to the bumper
actuators. The air header consists of an air pressure regulator assembly, ⅜-inch & ¼-inch flexible
tubing, ⅜ to ¼ tee assemblies, ⅜-inch couplers (as needed), and a ⅜-inch terminating plug.
Compressed air is supplied by a customer-supplied air compressor and flexible hose that connects
to the main air header’s air pressure regulator.

The simplest way to construct the main air header is to determine where you will be mounting the
various components on the curtain wall and snap a chalk line along the curtain wall 1 to 2 feet
below where the Valve Control Assemblies are to be mounted. Next, staple plastic wire ties
vertically at intervals along this line, and run the flexible tubing along the line securing it loosely
with the wire ties. The tubing comes in 50-foot lengths, and it takes approximately 11 feet per pair
of lanes. Sections can be connected together using ⅜-inch couplers or tee assemblies. Cut the
⅜-inch tubing at the approximate center point above the downsweep (ball return) between each
pair of lanes (between lanes 1 & 2, 3 & 4, etc.) and insert a tee assembly with the assembly
pointing up. Make the cuts as square as possible to ensure a good connection. All connections
are made by simply pushing the tubing firmly into the push connectors on the tee assemblies and
couplers. Refer to the drawing on page 20 for a typical air system layout.

Mount the Air Pressure Regulator on the curtain wall and connect the end of the air header’s
flexible tubing to the outlet connector on the regulator. Save the plug that is provided with the
regulator assembly. This will be used to terminate the end of the air header.

Mount the Valve Control Assemblies above the main air header’s tee assemblies and run ¼-inch
plastic tubing from each tee assembly to the inlet side of the solenoid valves on the Valve Control
Assemblies. Install the plug that was included with the air pressure regulator assembly into the
open end of the last tee assembly of the series. An alternate method would be to install a short
length of ⅜-inch tubing into the open end of the last tee assembly, install a ⅜-inch coupler on the
free end of the tubing, and insert the plug into the open end of the coupler.

Install the Air Cylinder Assemblies as explained on the following pages and connect ¼-inch flexible
tubing between the outlet of the solenoid valves and the air cylinders. Be sure to run the air lines
where they will not interfere with bowling balls returning along the underlane track. See Figure 2
on the next page and the illustration on page 20 for an example of a typical air system layout.

Run a ⅜-inch I.D. flexible hose from the air

compressor to the barbed inlet fitting of the Unlock 
curtain wall air pressure regulator and
secure it with the hose clamp provided Orange    Lock 
(Figure 1a). When pressurizing the Line 
system and setting the regulators, set
the compressor’s pressure regulator to
100 psi and set the control system air
pressure regulator on the curtain wall at
90 psi. To adjust the curtain wall air
pressure regulator (the supply line must be
pressurized), pull up on the regulator’s Shut  Open 
adjustment knob to unlock. An orange line
should be visible below the knob (Figure Figure 1a Drain
1b). Turn the knob clockwise to increase Compressor-to- Figure 1b
pressure and counterclockwise to decrease Regulator Connection Air Pressure Regulator

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pressure. When decreasing the setting, it might be necessary to cycle a bumper in order to drop the
pressure in the system so the adjustment can be realized. When the desired pressure has been set,
push the adjustment knob down to lock the regulator. If the knob is not easily depressed, turn the
knob slightly in either direction and retry. The air pressure regulator has an integral moisture trap. If
moisture is visible in the bowl, drain it through the fitting on the bottom of the bowl. Also, drain
moisture from the air compressor’s air reservoir on a weekly basis, or more frequently as conditions
dictate.

Figure 2

3.6 Electrical Control System

This system consists of a Control Keypad, a series of Valve Control Assemblies, 12-volt dc power
supplies, and interconnecting wiring. The system can be remotely controlled using the keypad at
the front desk, or it can be connected to an existing BOSS or QubicaAMF Scoring system for
completely automatic control. When connected to a BOSS or QubicaAMF Scoring System, the
bowler can select the use of bumpers for specific individuals, and when it is that person’s turn to
bowl, the bumpers will automatically raise and lower at the start and end of the frame.

The Valve Control Assemblies (one per pair of lanes) contain two solenoid-operated air valves
(one per lane) and an addressable control module (BCU2). The control modules are assigned lane
addresses during installation using the Control Keypad. 250-foot spools of interconnect cable are
provided to connect the Control Keypad to the first BCU2 control module, and to connect each
control module to the next one in the series. Refer to the BCU2 Pneumatic Bumper Control
Installation Manual, 400-049-002, for specifics on connecting system wiring and setting lane
addresses. The Valve Control Assemblies are to be mounted on the curtain wall above the main air
header where the tee assemblies are installed.

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Power Supplies

The Automatic Durabowl Bumper System operates using safe 12-volt dc power. A power supply is
needed for every eight lanes. The 12-volt power supply plugs into a standard AC wall outlet. No
special wiring is needed except to provide outlets on the curtain wall spaced no more than eight
lanes apart. The Power Supply will automatically convert 100-volt AC through 240-volt AC power to
12-volt DC power. International installations may require a country-specific power cord. (IEC Power
Cord). Mount the power supplies on the curtain wall in locations that provide easy access to an
outlet and also easy access to a Valve Control Assembly (see Page 18). Wire the power
supplies to the BCU2 Controllers on the Valve Control Assemblies only as shown in the
BCU2 Pneumatic Bumper Control Installation Manual, 400-049-002.

3.7 Installation
CAUTION! Exercise caution and keep hands and feet clear when raising or lowering the
bumpers. Use only the pull hook provided when manually operating the bumpers.

Throughout these instructions there are references to the 3rd upright bracket location for
installing the auto opener assembly. The 2nd or the 4th upright bracket or any location
between upright brackets can also be used if it avoids completely cutting or notching a 2x4
leveler.

Follow these steps for system installation: (Refer to Figure 3 for the recommended configuration.)

1. Assemble and secure the main air header to the curtain wall. (See Figure 3 as well as the
Typical Layout illustration on page 17 and read the Air System Description section on page 7 for
specifics pertaining to the mounting and location of air system components.)

2. Mount a Valve Control Assembly on the curtain wall above the main air header for each lane pair
(between lanes 1 & 2, 3 & 4, etc.).

3. Connect the 3/8” to ¼” tee assemblies of the main air header to the inlet side of the solenoid-
operated air valves on the Valve Control Assemblies with ¼-inch O.D. flexible tubing.

4. Interconnect the Valve Control Assemblies with interconnect wire. Refer to the BCU2
Pneumatic Bumper Control Installation Manual, 400-049-002, for specifics on connecting the
wiring.

5. Mount and connect the 12-volt dc power supplies. Refer to the instructions in the BCU2
Pneumatic Bumper Control Installation Manual, 400-049-002, for specifics on making the
electrical connections. Follow the instructions exactly as specified in the manual.

6. Mount the air pressure regulator assembly to the curtain wall and hook up the air compressor.

If the center is installing more than 32 lanes, a second air compressor along with a second air
pressure regulator, or a compressor with a tank capacity greater than 30 gallons, could be
required. We recommend constructing two separate air headers and feeding half the lanes from
each one, if possible.

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MOUNT THE VALVE CONTROL ASSEMBLY

ABOVE THE MAIN AIR HEADER TO MINIMIZE
POTENTIAL FOR CONDENSATION

TO THE NEXT VALVE

CONTROL

TO SCORING

STAPLE WIRE-TIE TO THE CURTAIN

WALL AND PASS THE TUBING
THROUGH IT FOR SUPPORT.

TO ODD LANE

Figure 3

7. Place the Control Keypad (BUM-KEY-BCU) in a convenient location at the front desk/counter
and run the signal wire from the Keypad through the ceiling and down the back of the curtain
wall to the first Valve Control Assembly, and then connect each control module to the next in
the series. Connect the wiring and set the Control Module addresses from the Control
Keypad in accordance with the BCU2 Pneumatic Bumper Control Installation Manual,
400-049-002.

8. a. New Bumper Installation

• Install Durabowl Bumper Rails in accordance with the Durabowl Bumper System
Installation Manual, 049-007-060, and make sure they are working freely with no
binding. Do not install the Gutters.

• Proceed to step 9.

b. Existing Bumper Pneumatic Upgrade Installation

• Before working on the lanes, be sure that the lane oil has been stripped from the lanes
on which you will be installing the Automatic Durabowl Bumper Control as well as from
one lane on either side that will not be worked on.
• Remove the first two lengths of double division coverboard and single division capping.
Use a # 2 or # 3 Phillips bit and an impact or reversible drill to remove the screws
holding the coverboard & capping to the foundation. Mark each section on the
underside as to where it was on the lane to simplify reinstallation. Move the coverboard
& capping to a location where it will not be in the way. If the center has automatic
scoring take extra care if unfastening the piece of coverboard that has the camera
mounted to it. It is best to leave that piece sitting on the double division with the camera
intact. It is even better to leave that piece in place and not remove any screws.
• Remove the single and double division foul light covers and place them out of the way.
• Remove the transition blocks and first section of Durabowl Gutter.
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Automatic Durabowl Control System Installation

• Ensure the Durabowl Bumper Rails are working properly and freely. Replace any bent
arms.

9. Raise and block up the rail. Locate the 3rd Upright Bracket from the foul line and determine if
there is adequate space for installation. The length of the Auto Opener Assembly is 24 inches.
The Cylinder Assembly will hang below the Angle Base and requires a space of 3½” in depth,
16½” in length and 1¾” in width to fully operate. In some instances a leveler could be in the way
of the cylinder. As was mentioned earlier, check to see if the # 2 or # 4 Upright Bracket might be
more suitable for replacement.

10. Using the Auto Opener Angle Base as a guide (see Figure 4), mark the installed Angle Base
where it is to be cut. Mark the foul line end over a leveler (as shown in Figure 4) so that the
replacement section can be secured to the leveler.

foul line end

Figure 4

11. Remove the first section of Durabowl Bumper by removing the lag screws, the bolt that joins the
angle base to the next section of angle base, and by disconnecting the first joint of plastic rail.

12. With a saw, cut the metal angle base at the two marked locations. Wear eye protection.

13. Loosen and remove the M6 shoulder bolt and M6 locknut that fasten the upper portion of the
3rd upright bracket to the plastic rail (see Figure 5). Some previously installed Durabowl
Systems use a slotted pin and C-clip instead of the shoulder bolt and nut.

Figure 5

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14. The replacement section has a connector plate welded on one end for connecting the 24-inch
section of angle base to the original angle base on the first section of Durabowl Bumpers.
Overlap the connector plate onto the original angle base, mark, and drill a ¼-inch clearance
hole (see Figure 6). Fasten the two sections together using a ¼ - 20 x 5/8 bolt and lock nut.

Figure 6

15. Reinstall the first section of Durabowl Bumper and secure it to the levelers using #14 x 2 lag
screws. Reconnect the first joint of plastic rail at the U-bracket. Do not connect the new
Upright Bracket to the plastic rail yet.

16. Repeat steps 8 through 15 for the other side of the lane.

17. Each Valve Control Assembly controls a pair of lanes. Run the ¼-inch plastic tubing from the
Valve Control Assembly across to the pinspotter via the electrical bundle that connects the
Pinspotter to the curtain wall. Then route the tubing down between the pinspotters, through the
kickbacks, and finally behind the downsweep. Continue running the tubing towards the
approach until you come to the Cylinder Assembly on the double division (ball return) side of
the lane. Take care to make sure the ¼-inch plastic tubing is positioned so that it will not be
contacted by the bowling ball as it returns along the ball return track. Use plastic wire ties to
secure the tubing out of the way.

Install a ¼-inch push lock tee fitting on each length of ¼-inch tubing coming from the Valve
Control Assembly. Then run a 5-foot length of tubing from the ¼-inch tee, under the lane, to
the Cylinder Assembly on the other side of the lane. Connect another piece of tubing of equal
length between the tee and the Cylinder Assembly on the near side of the lane. The left and
right cylinder assemblies for one lane should be connected to the tee with equal lengths
(approximately 60 inches) of ¼-inch plastic tubing (refer to Figure 2). Because the cylinders
move during operation, leave sufficient slack in the tubing to allow movement of the cylinder
when securing the tubing out of the way.
Use identical lengths of ¼-inch plastic tubing from the tee to the Air Cylinder Assemblies
to ensure equal pressure to both sides of the lane.

18. Manually raise the bumpers, pressurize the system, and check for leaks. You can operate the
air cylinders from the Control Keypad to check for leaks and for proper operation. Adjust the
header pressure to 85 -90 psi. If there are leaks, depressurize the system and fix them,
(ensure all push connections are pushed in securely). See page 7 for information on operating
the air pressure regulator. When done, depressurize the bumper air lines and manually lower
the bumpers.
AIR PRESSURE HIGHER THAN 100 PSI COULD CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR SYSTEM AND VOID
THE WARRANTY.

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19. Connect the 3rd Upright Brackets to the Durabowl plastic rails. It will be necessary to drill
a ¼-inch hole in the plastic rail to mount the new upright bracket. If binding occurs, this hole
might need to be slotted like the factory holes.

The Automatic Durabowl Control System does not raise the Durabowl Bumper past the vertical
point as is done when the Durabowl Bumpers are manually operated. The new ¼-inch hole in
the plastic rail will need to be positioned accordingly. With the Automatic Durabowl Control
System in the down position, lay the plastic rail in the upright bracket to which the air cylinder is
attached.

Using a marker, mark the plastic rail at the point where the upper hole on the upright bracket
intersects the rail. This will be the location to drill the new clearance hole for the M6 shoulder
bolt.

If you have a right-angle drill, this ¼-inch hole can be drilled with the bumpers down. If you
don’t have a right-angle drill, manually raise the Durabowl Bumpers for that lane and then
pressurize the air lines for that lane which will raise only the new upright brackets. Manually
position the rail until your mark on the plastic rail is aligned with the upper hole in the upright
bracket. Drill through the upright bracket hole and through the plastic rail (see Figure 7) to
ensure the hole is perpendicular to the rail (very important!).

Connect the upright bracket using the M6 shoulder bolt and M6 nylon lock nut provided. Do
NOT tighten to the point that the rail is squeezed by the bracket. The bracket must be able to
move freely. Repeat for the other side of the lane.

Figure 7

20. Attach the return spring (see Figure 8). The spring can be located between any 2 upright
brackets, but we recommend choosing a location near the pin deck end of the lane. Avoid the
area next to Automatic Scoring or ball triggering sensors. Fasten the spring hook to the
Durabowl plastic rail by drilling 7/32-inch holes through the plastic rail (use the spring hook as a
template) about 2 inches behind the next upright bracket towards the foul line. Secure the
spring hook to the plastic rail with #10 - 24 x 1 screws and self-locking nuts. Tighten securely.

21. Connect one end of the spring to the hook on the spring hook and lower the rail. Straighten the
spring and then mark the metal angle base 1 inch beyond the free end of the spring. Raise the
rail, unhook the spring from the spring hook, and using a self-drilling screw, attach the spring to
the angle base at your mark. Reattach the other end of the spring to the spring hook.

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Figure 8

22. Install the Durabowl Gutters, Coverboard, and Capping in accordance with the instructions in
the Durabowl Bumper System Installation Manual, 049-007-060.

23. Test the bumpers for correct clearance and smooth operation. Any binding can usually
be corrected by loosening the hardware that connects the Upright Brackets to the rails.

24. Repeat steps 8 through 23 for the remaining lanes.

25. Use tie wraps to secure all ¼-inch plastic tubing, interconnect cable, and signal wire from
catching or being in the way of the normal operation of the pinspotters, bumpers, and other
equipment.

After the Return Springs are installed on both sides of the lane, conduct a final test using the
Bumper Control Keypad to be sure the Automatic Durabowl Control System raises and lowers the
bumpers quickly and with ease. Operate the Automatic Durabowl Control System raising the
Durabowl Bumpers several times to be sure everything is working smoothly.

If there is any binding or tight spots in the Durabowl Bumper itself, the air cylinders may
hesitate slightly before raising. These tight spots should be identified and repaired.
Spraying the nylon bushings with a small amount of WD-40 or similar lubricant will greatly
reduce the friction and aid in the Durabowl Bumpers raising and lowering effortlessly.

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4.0 Maintenance and Repair

Periodically, (monthly is recommended) check the air system for leaks. The air header and control
valve inlet connections can be checked any time the system is pressurized, but in order to check
the valve outlet connections and downstream to the air actuators, each lane’s bumpers must be
placed in the UP position. Doing this one lane at a time will simplify locating leaks.

If at any time an air leak occurs on the lines going to a lane and repair must be delayed, simply
disable that lane by placing the bumpers for that lane in the down position from the Bumper Control
Keypad. This will stop the air from going to that lane and all remaining lanes can continue to be
used. (Refer to the steps in the BCU2 Pneumatic Bumper Control Manual, 400-049-002, for
instructions on how to operate the bumpers using the keypad.)

Periodically, (monthly) check for broken, damaged, or missing components. Check for freedom of
movement, and lubricate pivot points as needed.

If there is any binding or tight spots in the Durabowl Bumper itself, the air cylinders may
hesitate slightly before raising. These tight spots should be identified and repaired.
Spraying the nylon bushings with a small amount of WD-40 or similar lubricant will greatly
reduce the friction and aid in the Durabowl Bumpers raising and lowering effortlessly.

Depressurizing the System

Do not attempt to repair any part of the system with the air header pressurized. Parts of the
bumper system present a shearing and crushing hazard. If part of the rail system needs repair,
raise it and block it up to keep it from lowering when air pressure is removed.
There are two levels of system depressurization: partial and complete.

To partially depressurize the system, perform the following:

1. Shut the isolation valve between the compressor and the air pressure regulator on the
curtain wall. Tag this valve shut in accordance with your center’s lock-out and tag-out
procedures.
2. Slowly open the drain on the bottom of the curtain wall air pressure regulator. If there is
water in the filter bowl, use a rag or container to catch it. Leave the drain open.
3. If your system has an air header vent valve, open it. Leave it open.
4. When the repair has been completed. Shut the air header vent valve and the filter bowl
drain valve.
5. Remove the tag on the isolation valve in accordance with your center’s lock-out and tag-out
procedures and slowly open the isolation valve.
6. As applicable, check the repair for leaks.

To completely depressurize the system:

1. Turn off and unplug the air compressor. If the compressor is hardwired, open the circuit
breaker that supplies power to the compressor.
2. Open the drain petcock on the bottom of the compressor’s reservoir tank. It is normal for
some water to be discharged from this valve. Wipe it up with a rag.
3. Open the drain on the bottom of the air pressure regulator on the curtain wall.

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Auto Opener Assemblies: 049-007-173, L.H.

049-007-174, R.H. (shown)
ITEM PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
1 813-240-082 Screw, 10-32 x ½, Pan Head
2 838-740-002 Nut, Hex, 10-32, Nylock
3 808-549-060 Screw, ¼-20 x ⅜, Hex Socket Button Head
4 911-564-200 Clevis Pin, 3/8 x 1
5 911-548-120 Clevis Pin, ¼ x ¾
6 911-007-082 Cotter Pin, 1/16 x ½
7 049-007-262 Activator Arm
8A 049-007-192 Angle Base Weldment, RH
8B 049-007-191 Angle Base Weldment, LH
9 049-007-230 Cylinder Mounting Bracket
10 049-007-148 Lower Pivot Pin
11 919-015-055 E-Clip, M5
12 049-007-190 Clevis, Modified
13 049-007-198 Spring
14 948-545-072 Washer, #10, Flat
15 049-007-217 Air Cylinder Assembly (includes item 18)
16 049-007-260 Upright Bracket Assembly
17 911-023-160 Cotter Pin, 1/8 x 1
18 718-810-033 Elbow, 1/8 NPT x ¼ Tube

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Air System Layout (typical)

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Valve Control Assembly 

Interconnect Cable  12 VDC 

3
2
From Scoring 
From Control Keypad

4
1
Main Air Header

Air Pressure Regulator 
6

       
LANE 4  LANE 3  LANE 2  LANE 1 

Air Header and Control Diagram

ITEM PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION

1 049-007-097 3/8 to ¼ Tee Assembly
2 049-007-194 Power Supply, 12-Volt (power supply only)
3 049-007-172 Signal Wire, 250’ Spool
4 049-007-098 Flex Tube, 3/8 OD, 50’ Roll
5 940-472-015 Polyurethane Tube, ¼ OD, 95’ Roll
6 049-007-180 Regulator Assembly
7 049-007-094 3/8 to 3/8 Coupling (not shown)
8 718-809-039 ¼ to ¼ Coupling (not shown)

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BUM-KEY-BCU

Air Regulator Assembly, 049-007-216 Valve Control Assembly, 049-007-163

ITEM PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION ITEM PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION
1 049-007-216 Regulator Assembly (incl. items 2, 3, & 4) 1 BUM-BOX-BCU2 BCU2 Relay Module
2 718-609-038 Quick Connect ¼ NPT x 3/8 Tube 2 049-007-123 Solenoid Valve with Connector
3 718-607-033 ¼ NPT to 3/8 Barbed Coupler
4 049-007-099 3/8 Plug

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