New guy with M36 ?'s

[MikeW]

I picked up a 1981, Square butt, no dash M36 yesterday. It is in great condition other than someone has put a "light spring kit" in it. The trigger will not rebound correctly. I am new to working on wheel guns. I found via search on this site that I may need to start by replacing the rebound spring.

Should I attempt replacing all the springs on my own or take it to a gunsmith and cross my fingers?
I was told that a smith put the springs in..but I cannot see a smith letting a gun leave his shop that is not working correctly (it does happen, I guess).

Does anyone have a link to a "how to" on the removal of the springs?

Thanks

 

[bamabiker]

Welcome to the forum. There is a lot of info in the FAQ part of the gun smithing section of this forum. You can also look through that section and probably find what you need to know.

 

[MikeW]

Thanks bama, I will go check that section out now.

 

[hsguy]

MikeW, the spring is easy to replace but be sure to use the proper screwdrivers and tools for the job, also be sure to use the proper procedure to remove the sideplate so as not to damage the gun.

 

[AKAOV1MAN]

Please remember this: there are so called gunsmiths that will do just about anything to make a buck. The fact that they are behind a counter, and have some tools lying around and have oil stained hands means nothing. Ask around about the guys work, if you are dealing with a totally unknown smith, send it to the factory for work. I have encountered too many "gunsmiths" who knew a lot less about their trade than I knew-and I am no gunsmith.
Not trying to take away from the really good guys out there, trying to protect their good names.

 

[flagman1776]

By all means take a look inside. You will need exact correct hollow ground screw drivers to keep from bunging the screw heads. Tap on the frame on the opposite side with a non-marring handle to loosen the side plate. You may find it just needs cleaning & lubrication. WD40 is a good cleaner but it evaporates so not a good lube. An old toothbrush might help. Lubricate with a good quality gun oil... a small bottle will last a long time so don't be cheap. Go slow & be patient getting the hammer block in correctly & the side plate back on. Nothing should need great force.
You may find that proper lubrication restores function... if not you've learned a great deal just from the examination.
If you've gotten this far, a straight spring replacement should be within your capability. A bought "light spring" should still return the trigger ok... too often folks get carried away clipping coils & go too far.
Best Wishes,
Russ

 

[MikeW]

Thanks everyone.. A Wolff spring kit is on the way. After looking around here I feel comfoprtable with changing the springs myself. I just hope that the spring(s) cure the issue(s).


Here is a short vid of the issue. You may be able to notice how the trigger hangs on rebound if any finger pressure is left on the trigger after pulled.


SSPX0201 on Flickr - Photo Sharing!

 

[Beans]

After viewing the video, I would start with a good cleaning. That might solve the problem