maybe if you powder coat the entire rest of the machine, rendering it completely useless, you won't have to think about it anymore. problem solved!

edit: winking smiley face added to keep it light-hearted

this reminds me of the time i powder coated my cat, sparkles. just seemed appropriate. but then he couldn't fit in the litter box anymore, so he started crapping on my bed when i was asleep. live and learn.

have you tried NOT powder coating the plunger? i've seen that work a few times.

always, with the semantics...

the OP has been a great sport about this, IMO. even if he doesn't get it to fit, at least he has a sense of humility. which unfortunately for him, you can't powder coat