Installation instructions

How to install your Glass Z-core system. For this guide, we'll look at the BAKx glass core. The 19/22 core will be similar, but a bit easier since there's access to the balls on both ends. 

CAUTION: DO NOT hold the Z-stem by the wood sleeve without the mouthpiece installed. The core will slide out and likely shatter on your table! Make sure you always have positive control of your glass. 

Step 1: Gather your supplies

You'll need the Z-stem wood kit, glass Z-core, BAKx cap, Z-screen retainer, glass balls, and the eZ-loader (if you have one).

 

Step 2: Fill the core with balls

Insert the eZ-loader into the wide end of the Glass Z-core. Carefully insert balls, ensuring the first several drop down into the thin section of the glass core.

Continue loading balls until one ball won't drop below the bottom of the eZ-loader.

Step 3: Insert Z-screen retainer 

Carefully insert the Z-screen retainer into the wide end of the glass core. Note the orientation of the screen retainer - the side with the thinner walls and wider inner diameter should face towards the balls. If it feels too tight, lightly lubricate the o-ring with a bit of mineral oil. I suggest Howards butcher block conditioner, which I sell small bottles of in the webshop. 

Use the eZ-loader to gently push the screen retainer down against the balls. Remember that "one ball" from Step 2? You may need to jiggle everything so the ball sits nestled in the retainer. 

Step 4: Remove the eZ-loader and check the fit

Remove the eZ-loader and gently insert the mouthpiece to check that there aren't too many balls and the mouthpiece will seat flush against the end of the glass core. I have sized the eZ-loader to account for variances in production, but if for some reason the mouthpiece won't fully seat then you'll have to remove some balls to make more room. 

Step 5: Install the BAKx cap and the wood sleeve

Gently remove the mouthpiece and slide the thin side of the glass core into your BAKx cap. Make sure the cap seats tight against the glass joint with the wide side of the core. 

Slide the wood sleeve (if equipped) over the glass core. There should be a slight overlap to account for manufacturing variables. This system is hand made, so the overhang may vary from set to set. This will not impact function. 

Step 6: Install the mouthpiece

Hold the cap with one hand, and the mouthpiece with the other. Gently install the mouthpiece until it sits flush with the wood sleeve. The wood sleeve should have some play and be able to spin, but when the mouthpiece is installed it should be minimal.

The mouthpiece clamps the sleeve against the cap. Depending on your particular set, you may need to hold the thin side of the glass core and push the BAKx cap back up towards the mouthpiece, then push again on the mouthpiece. The goal here is to try and wedge the sleeve as tight as possible. 

That's it! Enjoy the superior cooling and massive airflow of your new Z-stem!

REMOVAL FOR CLEANING

Removing the Z-screen retainer can be tricky, especially after heavy use when things get coated in resin. 

The method that works best for me is using a wooden toothpick or skewer to gently rock the Z-screen retainer 90-degrees. This minimizes the risk of breaking the glass. DO NOT USE a metal tool for this! 

Once the screen retainer is sideways, you should be able to carefully remove it with ease.