K-38 Sticky Thumbpiece

[ChuckS1]

I have a 1957 K-38 with a sticky thumbpiece that's giving me problems. I have to push really hard to get it to move far enough to open the cylinder. It moves very slowly, unlike any of my other Smiths of that vintage. Could it be that it's just gummed up over time or is there something else I should look at? Maybe removing the ejector rod and giving it a good cleaning? And if that, does this have right hand threads?

 

[murphydog]

Making sure the extractor rod is tight is a good first step (right hand threaded). Cleaning under the extractor and degreasing the internals would be next. Take off the stocks and use aerosol brake cleaner until what drips out is clear. Those are so simple even I can do them!

If still not working normally, others will be along with more helpful hints.

 

[reddog81]

Is it hard to push when cylinder is open? If so this would mean the issue is inside the action/side plate.

If the problem is only with cylinder closed, it's probably the ejector rod.

A few drops of CLP, a few repetitions of opening and closing, and some time for everything to loosen up might clear up the issue.

 

[ChuckS1]

Thanks for the suggestions. So, with my 4" M&P for comparison, I removed the cylinder and the thumbpiece moves pretty easily, about the same as my M&P and my K-22.

But, pushing on the center pin is difficult. It goes in, but instead of coming back quickly like on my M&P, it comes back slowly. Not all like my M&P or K-22. May be a problem with the center pin spring? The extractor works fine.

I put some Kroil on the center pin a couple days ago hoping that might do something, but still the same.

 

[handejector]

It is probably gummy. Take it apart and clean it.

 

[ChuckS1]

Son of a gun, that rod's on tight. Probably hasn't been off since it left the factory 60+ years ago. Guess its time to visit Brownell's for the proper tool.

Thanks, everybody, for the help!