19-4 problem

[philconrad]

First off, I apologize if this is hard to understand. When I go to empty the cases from the cylinder it will slide off of the crane. This is a new development. I took the cylinder apart looking for something that might be broken. I do not see anything that is. Is this a common problem? Is this something that needs to go to a gunsmith? Thank you.

 

[philconrad]

If you mean the cylinder will slide off the crane toward the rear, that sounds like the crane/yoke is bent enough that that cylinder can get past the frame lug, or the frame lug is missing from the lower right corner of the cylinder window.

The frame lug is the projection from the side of the frame you can see here between the cylinder and the S&W logo:

With the cylinder removed, close the yoke and see if it appears to be aimed at the center of the recoil plate where the center pin would lock in.

The lug is there.

 

[Protocall_Design]

The frame lug can be worn down enough that the cylinder can go over the top of it. That seems the most likely. The crane may be bent outward a little as well, but doesn't have to be for this to happen. Probably just need a new frame lug.

 

[Hair Trigger]

Can the yoke be bent enough for the cylinder to miss the frame lug, but still allow the cylinder to turn without scrubbing the forcing cone or have other functional issues?

Seems like it would at least make the cylinder/cone gap wider on one side and narrower opposite that.

 

[retired2006]

I once had a "L" frame that the frame lug had gotten loose in the frame, and it would rotate just enough to let the cylinder to slip past. The frame lug is attached to the frame with a round stud, if it is loose, it will let the frame lug move.
If I remember correctly, I removed the lug, degreased the parts, applied red loctite, and restaked the stud.

 

[Hair Trigger]

The yoke could be bent, but would be forced back into alignment when you close the cylinder, making everything work okay. But open it up and it springs to a position that just clears the frame lug.

Seems like there would be other symptoms of that, like binding of the locking pin in the breech face, or of the extractor rod in the shroud.

 

[philconrad]

I will be taking it to Alan Tanaka Friday. I will report back with the findings.

 

[philconrad]

I have the results. The frame lug is worn. Here is where it gets complicated. My gunsmith tells me that the new lugs are about .210 high. Mine will need one about .235 high. He also told me that the yoke is straight. Does anyone know where I could find one that is taller ?

Thank you

 

[Protocall_Design]

It wouldn't take that much to make a new one from scratch on the lathe.

 

[Muley Gil]

I have taken revolvers apart and then tapped the frame lug out, just a tad, from the inside. You can then stone down any excess metal to match the frame.

 

[austintexas]

frame lug

Could this model revolver still be under S&W Warranty? A phone call might save a little money.
SWCA 892

 

[BB4XL]

I have a 649 that did the same thing. Bent crane. S&W fixed it for no charge. Call them ,ask for a return shipping label. They will fix it for you.

 

[philconrad]

I have an update. My gunsmith has found a lug from a model 18. It is a mat ch made in heaven. I am back in business.