Spring Replacement - Model 39-2

[toocool]

I have a Model 39-2, Serial #A2848** and have frequent failures-to-feed. I have an original 39 magazine, some aftermarket type (came with the gun, got the factory one from a forum member) and a stainless 639/3906 magazine. I have the FTF's with all three magazines, no particular round out of the mag, and it happens with WWB FMJ and UMC FMJ, as well as Gold Dot JHP's. I bought it used at Gander Mountain so I don't know its round count. I'm guessing I need at least a new recoil spring, but what power level? Wolff sells reduced power springs, a factory-weight 14# spring, as well as extra power springs.

What would be your suggestions for replacement? Should I replace all springs, just the recoil spring, the recoil and firing pin springs or look for some other solution?

Thanks for any help...

 

[Badkarma 1]

Hi Gary, my suggestion would be get the 14lb spring and run it. That might clear up the FTFs. Also check your magazines for wear or dents around the feed lips, and maybe replace the follower springs as well.
Depending on you pistols mileage you might want to replace all the springs, but I'd start with the recoil spring and follower spring first. Dale

 

[rooster59]

Can you give a description/pics of the failure to feed?

 

[Cyrano]

I'd sure replace the follower springs, possibly even before the recoil spring.

 

[Engine49guy]

This might sound dumb but did you check the barrels feed ramp for burrs ?

 

[Fletchman]

Model 39 failure to feed

I own a model 39-2. When I bought it the seller failed to tell me about the stove pipeing and jamming this pistol would do no matter what I did. I finally called S&W and found there had been a recall on some of the model 39s. I sent the pistol back to S&W and they did a retrofit for no charge. This was in 1985. I suggest calling S&W and see if your pistol was in the series recalled. Once I got the gun back it hasn't had a single hiccup. I still have it and and have shot quite a bit and have not had to replace the springs.

 

[310Pilot]

I recommend replacing the recoil spring (with a factory rate 14# spring), the extractor spring and the firing pin spring (the last two come in a Wolff spring kit available from Midway, you have to use their search engine, will not show up otherwise). I replaced all of them on my 39-2, and it cured all its hiccups.