Stuffer plug for automotive extrudate

An apparatus for the on-line process of introducing a stuffer plug within the hollow section of an elongated, hollow extrudate, said apparatus comprising:

• a stand having a support bracket for positioning said apparatus relative to the extrudate;
• a pair of elongated, spaced apart and parallel guide rails supported by said support bracket;
• a dispenser assembly operatively coupled to said guide rails for movement along said guide rails to position said dispenser assembly along the length of the extrudate, said dispenser assembly including needle section operable between a retracted position spaced from the extrudate and an extended position piercing a portion of the extrudate to introduce the stuffer plug therein;
• and
• a pair of spaced apart alignment rails supported by said support bracket and parallel to said guide rails for positioning and aligning the extrudate with said dispenser assembly for engagement by said needle section in said extended position to selectively introduce the stuffer plug into the extrudate.