Newb question -- loose cylinder/ejector rod

[45times6]

Hi folks,

I recently acquired a nice 4" .45ACP model of 1955. It locks up really nicely with no discernible endshake, and no problems with cylinder rotation on any chamber. When the cylinder is open, however, the whole cylinder/ejector rod assembly can slide rearward enough that it interferes with closing the cylinder unless I push them forward again. There's no problem with ejecting the moon-clip, but, overall, this is sub-optimal, to say the least, especially since I'm thinking of using the revolver for more serious business than just range work.

Unless this was factory standard, it appears that at some point a previous owner installed a single ball detent on the crane. I'm not sure whether this could be a causal factor, but I thought I'd include it as potentially relevant info.

Any ideas about what might be the cause of the problem, or possible solutions? Many thanks in advance!

 

[500 Magnum Nut]

The frame lug is worn and needs to be replaced. They are staked from the inside and the gun refinished if desired.

Remember the shells are ejected muzzle up, then the gun is reloaded muzzle down, then the cylinder is closed, so it should not be a concern, unless the cylinder falls off the gun while unloading it.

 

[45times6]

Thanks very much for your reply, but I'm a bit confused -- and thanks in advance for your patience. Looking at an exploded parts diagram, it looks like the frame lug is on the frame at the rear of the opening into which the cylinder closes... is this the case?

If so, how would this affect whether the cylinder/ejector rod would slide forwards and backwards when the cylinder is open?

Your other point, about the fact that the muzzle is down while reloading & thus minimizing the problem, though, is a much appreciated (and reassuring) reminder of the physics of the situation!

 

[tomcatt51]

Is this gun a 25-2 or a converted .45 long colt?

 

[john traveler]

If your cylinder/extractor rod assembly slops fore-and-aft with the cylinder swung open, it is likely that your frame lug is VERY worn, OR the frame lug was intended for another cartridge, and your revolver is cobbled together from parts. There is one other possibility: if the extractor rod collar (inside the cylinder) is missing, you will also have excessive fore-and-aft movement.

You say it's a Model of 1955? The M1955 was originally made in .45 ACP, but with a 6 1/2" barrel. Is your barrel cut down?

What is the possibility that your gun is a modern N frame originally chambered in .45 Colt and converted to .45 ACP? The frame lug for a .45 Colt would give that sloppy cylinder if a .45 ACP cylinder was installed.

 

[500 Magnum Nut]

Your yoke screw keeps the entire assembly on the gun while the gun is pointed downwards, so the yoke and cylinder are not going to fall off. When you point the gun upwards only the cylinder will fall off unless the frame lug is in good condition.

My used 625 is like yours, but if it is handled like intended it works fine. I tell everyone all the time, don't go looking for problems, as all used guns have something that needs work. Machines get worn out if used.
Use it gently and it won't need fixing in your lifetime.

 

[dwf6666]

The frame lug retains the cylinder on the yoke when the cylinder is open. We are assuming that the cylinder is riding over the frame lug causing what you describe. If the frame lug is worn, then this could be the problem. You may also have a bent yoke. If it is bent up toward the topstrap, then this could cause the same problem.