Model 41 locking cam stuck

[Chopperdoc]

Was trying to install the barrel back on my 41 today and the locking cam is stuck in the closed position. When I pull down on the trigger guard the cam doesn't move at all. Not sure if it jumped out of position or what. I have another 41 and when I compare the force required to pull down the latch it seems to move too easily, as if the trigger guard is no connected to anything.

Figured I ask here and perhaps someone else has had this problem.

The serial number is TAM 3028. I think its from the late 80s but that just what some one told me. it has the older style lettering compared to my newer 41. also the safety has the notch in the slide.

Thanks

Vic

 

[Chopperdoc]

So after looking at my other 41 I learned how the latch functioned. I took a small brass punch and taped on the vertical sliding part (for lack of a better word) behind the locking cam. With just a light tap it freed up. I removed the grips and slide and ran it through a couple cycles in the ultransonic cleaner. Rinsed, blown dry and slightly oiled and it works perfectly. I think what caused this, besides years of dirt, was when I tried to swap barrels between guns. The other barrel is slightly larger in the locking lug so it pushed the cam and joining parts past where they usually go. I believe that's how they got jammed up.

I forgot to mention that I just bought this gun and have only put a hundred or so rounds through it. It came with a 5 1/2 barrel with an Ultra dot mounted. I found a 7" barrel at Buds. The second 41 has the short barrel with iron sights. This is the barrel I was trying to install on the first 41.

 

[D Brown]

It's good to know you worked your way through the problem.

 

[wproct]

The model 41 is such a simple and robust design, the more you shoot it and understand it, the more you love it.