1911sc Plunger Tube Replacement Anyone?

Zebra War Wagon

Zebra War Wagon

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I have a 4 year old S&W 1911sc Commander that has been faithful until today. I was at the range and one of the staked in Plunger Tube studs broke off. I took it home and removed the Plunger Tube and getting ready to order a staking tool and a new Plunger Tube. YES, I know I can send it back under the lifetime warranty, but this seems like a simple fix from what I read and saw on Youtube. Just wondering if anyone out there has done a DIY on the 1911sc or maybe another 1911 that can over any words of wisdom? Or what replacement Plunger Tube they used?
 
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I have installed and repaired a few of these in the past and I would encourage you to reconsider a home repair, partly because of the price/value of the gun in question....and because of the metal used in the production of the frame.
This alloy is not the typical stainless or carbon steel frame. S&W is obliged to repair it for free, which relieves you of the risk and expense. Just my 2 cents.
 
I am pleased to report that I received the tools for the chamfering, plunger tube and staking tool. After carefully chamfering, I was able to get the post staked. The front post was very easy, the rear post took some wrangling with lights from all angles and carefully getting the point in the center, I was able to complete the task. Although this staking tool came with the plunger tube protector, I also inserted a 7/64th drill bit shank end in the tube and I am glad I did! When I was done, the drill bit shank was not "tight" but very snug, unlike the ease to which it was inserted prior to the re-staking. So, the job is done, and done right, and I now have all the tools if I ever had to do it again. BTW, I used the Harrison Design Extreme Service Plunger Tube.
I am confident that the repair I performed is better than any S&W service technician would have done, and the plunger tube is better than what S&W would have used.
 
Your gun is under warranty and it would make sense to take advantage of that and have them fix it for free.

If you own many 1911's that are not under Lifetime Warranty than getting a tool to stake Plunger Tubes on is not a bad thing, assuming you have the mechanical ability, skills, tools and patience to perform your own work.

Shoot 1911's long enough and the staked on parts will loosen up eventually. I've fixed and replaced Plunger Tubes, Front Sights and Grip Bushings on 1911's. Not difficult - but hardly makes sense to buy all the tools for one 1911 with a Lifetime Warranty IMO.
 
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