PASCO Plunger Cart Product Manual

Plunger Car Plunger Cart t
ME-9430
The Plunger Cart is a 500-gram cart with an aluminum body and ABS
end caps. It is the companion to the Collision Cart (ME-9454), which is
red and does not have a spring plunger. The different colors make it
easier to keep track of each cart during collision studies. The cart
includes magnets, and hook and loop pads for exploring elastic and
inelastic collisions. The cart is compatible with all PASCO Dynamics
Tracks and accessories.
P P ar art descriptions t descriptions
1. Wheels Wheels
The wheels are mounted to low-friction ball-bearings. The wheels
retract into the body so that they are protected from drops or
being stepped on. The wheels are designed to fit in the grooves
on PASCO tracks.
2. ABS End Caps ABS End Caps
3. Magnets Magnets
Use for elastic collision experiments.
4. Upper Tie Point Upper Tie Point
Use for attaching a string or springs (ME-8999) to the cart.
5. Slot Slot
Use for inserting a Cart Picket Fence (ME-9804).
6. Mounting Holes Mounting Holes
Use the threaded holes to attach various accessories.
7. Accessory Tray Accessory Tray
Use to hold Cart Masses (ME-6757A).
8. Plunger Trigger Plunger Trigger
Use to release the spring plunger to launch the cart or for
explosion experiments.
9. Hook and Loop Pads Hook and Loop Pads
Use for inelastic collision experiments.
10. Lower Tie Point Lower Tie Point
Use for attaching a string to pull the cart.
Plunger operation Plunger oper ation
The plunger is used to launch the cart from a stationary object or
another cart. It can be set at three different positions to launch the
cart at three different speeds.
CAUTION: The plunger comes out rapidly when the trigger is
pushed. Do not hold the plunger end of the cart next to your eyes
to prevent injury.
The plunger has three indentations on its top side. Inside the cart is a
retention bar located above the plunger. The plunger locks in place
when an indentation lines up with the retention bar. To operate the
plunger:
1. Apply a slight upward force on the plunger and push the plunger
into the cart until it locks.
2. To place the plunger in the next position, push down on the
plunger to release it, then repeat step 1.
3. Place the end of the plunger next to an object.
4. Push the plunger trigger to launch the cart.
Tip: Use a ruler to tap the trigger to avoid applying a force
on the cart as it launches.
Replacing the axles Replacing the axles
The bearings inside the axles may become damaged from dirt and
other contaminants over time. Replacement axles are available as
item ME-6957.
Product Guide
012-14781C
Plunger Cart | 1