"gritty" action on 66

[sdg380]

I recently posted a few pix of a couple of revolvers I won in auctions on GB, a very nice 686-3, and a very clean 66-5. But now with the benefit of a little more available time for inspection, I am concerned by the "gritty" feel of the action on the 66, felt when cocking the hammer, either DA or SA. DA and SA trigger weights feel fine, everything seems to lock up tight (have not yet been to the range, though), I had thought a shot of lube would help things, but I don't seem to notice any difference. Removed the grips and everything looks clean, no corrosion or dirt. While I'm hardly an expert, the few other Smith (and non-Smith) revolvers I have do not exhibit this same feel.

Obviously, I'm thinking I may need to see a good gunsmith, but thought I'd see if anyone on the forum has any suggestions. I've never had a side plate off--should I even attempt to take a look? Anything else I might try? Guess this is the downside of buying on the 'net, but the used gun market is virtually non-existent in my area. TIA, Steve g

 

[VM]

Go into the FAQ's in the Smithing section and read about sideplate removal. It is very easy and really the only way to make sure you don't have any grime/gunk inside.
If you are still leary about doing it, get an aerosol can of the breakfree, gunscrubber, etc. and let'er rip.............then blow it out good with air compressor.

 

[sdg380]

VM, thank you for the response, I will do as you suggest, sorry to seem like such a novice, but I'm just sort of new on some of this stuff.

 

[VM]

VM, thank you for the response, I will do as you suggest, sorry to seem like such a novice, but I'm just sort of new on some of this stuff.

We were all new to the hobby at one point or another. I learn cool stuff everyday on this Forum..........

Lot's of great info here from very knowledgeable Members. Ask away - someone will chime in with their two cents

 

[Gunsmithattheguncloset]

you won't believe this but......

just to mention a couple of options: one: you can take it to a smith and have him / her do a trigger and action job on the gun, two you can take the side plate off and blast the action with CLP to clean the grit out of it, or third you can purhcase a spring kit from Wolff springs. Fourth,(i am serious don't laugh at me) after you blast out the crud with CLP and clean and blow it out with compressed air. Get a tube of colgate tooth paste (hand to God!) and fill the action up with the tooth paste, put the side plate back on, and work the action over and over and over and over. Tooth paste contains pumice which is a mild abrasive. the tooth paste will polish the surfaces of the lock work (remember when metal parts interact with other metal parts it helps for them to be smooth). Once you are happy with the trigger remove the side plate, blast outthe tooth paste with brake cleaner, relubricate and enjoy.

Trey