My guide rod broke

[Ole Joe Clark]

Had the SW40VE apart, using the barrel as a gauge, (plunk test) for some reloads today. Finished up the chore and started to assemble the guide rod/recoil spring and it fell apart at the assembly end. The small diameter just broke. I have the pistol apart many times and as I attempted to slide the guide rod in place it broke.

Called S&W and spoke to a nice guy named Jeff. Even though I am not the original owner, he is sending a replacement part at no charge. Only problem: The are on shutdown and the part won't ship for 5-7 days.

 

[GRU_ 7_ mech]

Sorry about the break. Nice of S&W to send you a new one.

 

[earthtone31]

Buy you a Galloway Stainless Steel Guide Rod and that won't ever happen. Sorry to hear about that.

 

[Ole Joe Clark]

Already have my free replacement installed.

 

[Monteman1971]

Replaced mine with the Galloway.... Wouldn't want that plastic one to break at the wrong moment.....

 

[Houlton]

Buy you a Galloway Stainless Steel Guide Rod and that won't ever happen. Sorry to hear about that.

Thanks for the tip about Galloway. Mine was looking a little beat up. Ordered this AM

 

[RJJ 1971]

Already have my free replacement installed.

Ordered my replacement today. Free of charge by SW.
Great customer service!

 

[RJJ 1971]

Ordered my replacement today. Free of charge by SW.
Great customer service!

Guide rod and spring came in today and replaced already.

 

[BigBill]

Do you lube it?

I lube the guide rod with moly. The springs too.

 

[RJJ 1971]

Do you lube it?

I lube the guide rod with moly. The springs too.

Just lite coat of WD for all internals.

 

[jday228]

sorry to hear about that too. I always had a feeling those plastic rods would break in time so I replaced mine with a stainless version not long after I bought my SD9 just to be sure and glad I did. Helped with the recoil too. Glad to hear ya got a free replacement.

 

[ReaperTN]

I went with a Galloway stainless guide rod and 20 lb. spring in my SD40VE soon after I purchased it. Factory plastic guide rod with 17 lb. spring is in parts drawer as emergency back-up only. Hope I never have to use it.

 

[martybee]

I believe the guide rode is as it is named, "Guide Rod" It is there merely to keep the recoil spring in place! The heel end (that makes contact with the barrel) acts as a buffer and helps to keep the hammering to a minimum. I would rather a plastic rod then a steel one. I think S&W used the plastic for a reason other than economy. I think this is especially true for the SD40ve. *As a foot note, I am convinced the reason the rod breaks, is because it is not properly seated upon re-assembly!

mb

 

[GKC]

I believe the guide rode is as it is named, "Guide Rod" It is there merely to keep the recoil spring in place! The heel end (that makes contact with the barrel) acts as a buffer and helps to keep the hammering to a minimum. I would rather a plastic rod then a steel one. I think S&W used the plastic for a reason other than economy. I think this is especially true for the SD40ve.

I've read various opinions about the benefits of plastic flex, etc. However, I always wonder why, if that was truly the case, wouldn't all guide rods be made of plastic? I mean, if they were better AND more economical, why wouldn't gun manufacturers put them in all their guns? (Sincere question, not slamming you.)

 

[martybee]

I've read various opinions about the benefits of plastic flex, etc. However, I always wonder why, if that was truly the case, wouldn't all guide rods be made of plastic? I mean, if they were better AND more economical, why wouldn't gun manufacturers put them in all their guns? (Sincere question, not slamming you.)

No offense taken!
I can't answer your question as it poses more opinionated answers. I can only point out from my view what I think about the subject.

mb