Another Bent Extractor Thread

[3T'sX3]

Have seen several recent threads dealing with bent extractor "rods" but none that address bent extractors. I'm having run-out and binding problems with two of my revolvers. A Mod 27 and a Mod 10. I have replaced extractor rods and center pins. The yoke alignment is perfect. The run-out seems to be in the extractor itself.

Has anyone had success straightening an extractor?

 

[WR Moore]

Just because the extractor rod is new, doesn't mean it's straight. I used to buy by the dozen and sort for quality and adjust as necessary. Recutting the bevel at the end is occasionally necessary. Sometimes, overtightening can cock an otherwise straight rod. 'Tis why they make Loc-Tite. BTW, with the center pin level with the headspace button, make sure it sticks 0.005" out of the rod.

I guess it's possible to actually bend the shaft of the extractor by beating on the rod to free a stuck case instead of inserting a dowell into the offending case. Determining this and gently, gently correcting same isn't something I suggest doing at home-unless you're a machinist and willing to pony up big bucks if you screw up.

A lathe and a dial indicator would be what I'd use to verify the problem. Chuck the shaft in the chuck and indicate the star. Or, use feeler gauges under the star if your chuck is new/has a flat front on the jaws. VERY light tapping on the star while in the chuck might take care of the problem-if it exists.

 

[500 Magnum Nut]

How to straighten a bent extractor rod

I don't do locktite, neither will the factory on extractor rods.

There are several things to look at to determine what is causing the run out. It might be the rod that has an obvious bend to it. It might be the extractor rod collar that isn't parallel. It might be the thread portion of the extractor rod that is bent.
Once you try and tighten it up, any reason above will cause the whole rod to run out, yet when loose the rod appears fine.

This is how I adjust them. Find a lead/babbit bar. Anything will work as long as you don't flatten the threads or ding up the extractor rod. That is why something softer than the extractor rod will work. Chuck up the rod in a drill press chuck/ lathe chuck. I use an indicator, but a sharp eye will work too. As you roll the extractor rod around, tap the high side down. Get it to run straight. If you have an indicator set it for .001 run out.

To determine if the collar is bad, you need to measure it is several places with a micrometer to see if it is made parallel. .001 out of square will cause the end to be out 1/32" or more at the tip of the extractor rod.

Use a tool like this to tighten it up, not your fingers!

Another way is to use leather straps in a vise to protect the extractor rod, and tighten it that way. Make sure you insert fired cases in the chambers to protect the alignment pins as you tighten it up.

 

[3T'sX3]

Thank you for the responses. You have given me some additional things to look for.