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The L.C. Smith Collectors Association
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Top lever getting left of center

Posted by John Mistretta on May 9, 2019, 6:19 am

I have a 12 gauge Ideal Grade that has a top lever creeping left of center. Still locks up tight but I feel I’m running out of time and corrective action will soon need to be taken. My instinct tells me the rib extension is worn and needs metal added. I’ll try to diagnose it with some adhesive lead tape shimmed on the rib. Possibly a worn rotating locking bolt? The top lever spring is strong. If the rib needs metal is tig welding safe? I don’t know about the heat causing the rib extension to detach. I’ve heard plasma welding is less of an issue. Any opinions would be welcome both concerning diagnosis and possible treatments. Thanks in advance.

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by Michael Harris on May 9, 2019, 7:31 am, in reply to "Top lever getting left of center"

More than likely a worn rotary bolt. I would try a new bolt first before welding. JMHO Mike Harris

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by David Williamson on May 9, 2019, 9:13 am, in reply to "Re: Top lever getting left of center"

I think it is a worn rib extension slot. These guns have been opened and closed hundreds and maybe thousands of times and in my opinion, if the gun is closed hard the rotary bolt will ride on the slope eventually wearing it down.
I always try to hold the top lever over as I am closing the gun for this reason.

If you find that the rib extension is worn, micro tig welding should not put undo heat on the brazed part of the rib.

What ever you find out please let us know.

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by John Mistretta on May 9, 2019, 9:18 am, in reply to "Re: Top lever getting left of center"

Thanks Mike, Is there anywhere you can obtain a rotary bolt that isn’t possibly just another used one that is worn? I know Numerich has them but all seem used. How do you determine that it is serviceable? Are there measurable specs?-

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by Mark Britton on May 11, 2019, 9:53 pm, in reply to "Top lever getting left of center"

OK What am I missing here ? I have seen many SXS shotguns left of center. That you or me will never shoot enough in our lifetime to become loose, or off face. Shoot it an enjoy, maybe your grand kids might have a problem ? My 2 cents

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by Michael Harris on May 23, 2019, 2:32 pm, in reply to "Re: Top lever getting left of center"

John, I do have some NOS rotary bolts. You can email me at lcsmithdeluxe@gmail.com

Re: Top lever getting left of center

Posted by John Mistretta on May 28, 2019, 12:31 pm, in reply to "Re: Top lever getting left of center"

So the issue seemed to be whether it was a worn extension rib or a worn rotary bolt. I attached three thicknesses of aluminum foil to the rib extension slope and the top lever came back right of center. With that I figured the rotary bolt was fine. Have a good local welder available. He tig welded metal on the rib. I filed it back while powdering for even pressure from the bolt. In about a half an hour the lever was back to right of center. Welding cost ten 3902084bucks. I’m sure I could have let it as is. I just got to have it right in my own mind. Thank you for all of your thoughts and insight. Very much appreciated.

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