13-3 cylinder hard to open

[Dogmann]

So I purchased a like new mint 13-3,3inch nickel revolver. I don’t think it’s been shot. But the cylinder release when I push it forward does not release the cylinder like it’s suppose to I have to really force the cylinder out of the frame while depressing the cylinder latch.
Any suggestions? I’ve oiled it really well. I may try and send it back to S&W if I can’t fix it. Thank you.

 

[s&wchad]

Make sure the ejector rod is tight.

 

[Vtgw938]

If the rod is tight remove the yoke screw and try it.

 

[Dogmann]

I will check now. That should screw in and out correct? By hand.

 

[Engine49guy]

Lube the pin in front of the ejector rod and rod tip.if it stills sticks remove the yoke screw, then the yoke and cylinder, clean lube reassemble.
If your not familiar there are plenty of SW disassembly videos on YouTube.
Apply oil behind cylinder release knob and inside on both sides of hammer.

 

[Vtgw938]

I will check now. That should screw in and out correct? By hand.

The extractor rod is reversed thread and there is a correct way to remove it. If it won't budge by hand it probably isn't causing the problem. The yoke screw should come out by hand with the proper screwdriver. If the wrong screw got in there it will be tighter than normal.

 

[T112-4]

I had S&W nickeled and had similar problem turned out the yoke screw had been switched with side plate screw. I changed them back and it worked fine.

 

[pantannojack]

Do not put a pliars on the center shaft. Get the proper tool from Brownels.

 

[Bruceboy]

One more vote for the yoke screw being switched for one of the other two side plate screws. The yoke screw should be more than finger tight but not a lot of pressure with a screw driver is required to seat it properly.

You will know in a second if you even back the yoke screw out a turn or two and find the cylinder opens freely.

Good luck,

Al

 

[Engine49guy]

Had to lookup the 13 revisions, the new spring loaded yoke retention system wasn't introduced until the 13-4 so yes could be wrong screw.
Try unscrewing it a full turn and see if your cylinder swings freely.
Either way not a bad idea to remove the cylinder and yoke and lube everything.

 

[Dogmann]

Make sure the ejector rod is tight.

Fixed. Thank you all

 

[robertrwalsh]

So, what was it? Inquiring minds want to know.

 

[chief38]

Like many above have stated, it usually comes down to an Ejector Rod that has loosened up. That said, over the years I have had to re-fit the front shoulder of the knurled section of the ER on a few Smith's. Sometimes they were just a tad too long and the ER release will not push out enough to easily release the cylinder. Just make SURE that you triple check everything else prior to shortening it - you can not put metal back!

 

[s&wchad]

So, what was it? Inquiring minds want to know.

The ejector rod was loose.
See post #11.

 

[Dogmann]

The Ejector Rod had loosened up. That was the fix. Now to find some better grips. Hopefully a SB conversion cokes.

 

[Vtgw938]

You do know that pics are pretty much mandatory.