Pre Model 36 Chiefs Question

[Craypi]

I am very new to the group and I have the S&W bug... I have a S&W .38 Chief Special Pre-Model 36, Five Screw Frame variation, 2 inch - round butt/walnut grips, caliber 38 S&W Special that was shipped from factory in July 16, 1953. (all info via S&W Letter)

I noticed the plunger - when ejecting the shells would bind up in one area as you rotated the cylinder. You can then rotate cylinder and the plunger springs back to normal. I located a new LH Extractor Rod and replaced and gave all ( Extractor, Center pin, inside of cylinder) a good scrubbing/cleaning. After all this - same binding problem. Should I continue to change out the Extractor and Center Pin? Or take to a local Gunsmith at $125.00 per hour? Any Suggestions is appreciated.

 

[Wiregrassguy]

Welcome to the forums from the Wiregrass! Sounds like you may have a bent yoke. There is a FAQ in the Gunsmithing forum (sticky post) that has instructions for checking this, IIRC. With the cylinder closed and looking at the cylinder from the side, cock the hammer enough to release the cylinder stop, then rotate the cylinder with your free hand. Do you see any eccentricity in the rotation? If so, the yoke will have to be straightened. A competent gunsmith should be able to do that a lot cheaper than $125.

 

[Craypi]

Thanks , I don't notice any obvious eccentricity, and I will take this over to the gunsmithing - thanks for the help

 

[Hondo44]

You just need to do some simple detective work.

I seriously doubt the yoke is bent. And I sure wouldn't go to a smith yet.
Look at the seam from the front of the frame between frame and yoke. If it closes up nice and tight with no gaps, the yoke is likely fine.

Go back to the original parts and look at them carefully for worn spots in the bluing that do not go all around the surface of the rotating parts. Use some magnification to observe the parts!

Most importantly check both ends of the large spring to make sure they're round. A distorted end of the spring can make it hang up inside the yoke shaft.

 

[Targets Guy]

Welcome to the forum. We love photos.

 

[LEO918]

Welcome to the Smith & Wesson Forum from Arizona.

 

[JH1951]

Welcome to the forum from Pennsylvania!
I am interested in learning what you find the issue to be. Please keep us informed!

 

[Craypi]

Thanks for the info - Hondo- there is no unusual warping or out of round of the cylinder - I will take apart again and look at the internal parts - including the springs - also - Hondo - I bought the SW book you recommended me several months ago - I have the S&W disease - I landed a 1950 or 1951 pre 27 3 1/2 inch , a middle 20's 1905 38 spl, a middle 30's Police Regulation 38 S&W ....

 

[Craypi]

I am really embarrassed, after purchasing new springs , extractor rod etc... the binding still occurred. I did not notice any off balance of any rotation. I then used my new vice grip designed for extractor rods and tightened the LH firmly - Moses parted the sea - it worked!!! Thanks all!!!

 

[JSR III]

Welcome to the forum.

Problem solved and now we return you to your regular S&W addiction...........