Locking Bolt Spring help

[ithacaartist]

Installing the spring is easy in theory, but don't underestimate the oomph needed to get the lever into place. The spring will be constantly forcing the shaft's axis off-center, and this must be overcome for most of its jurney. One member wrestled with his for quite a while, IIRC, a utility sink was involved as his sturdy, finish-friendly thing against which to push... Once accomplished, you'll have seen how it goes, and there's a next one, it will be much easier.

[Zorba]

Originally Posted by ithacaartist

Installing the spring is easy in theory, but don't underestimate the oomph needed to get the lever into place. The spring will be constantly forcing the shaft's axis off-center, and this must be overcome for most of its journey. One member wrestled with his for quite a while, IIRC, a utility sink was involved as his sturdy, finish-friendly thing against which to push... Once accomplished, you'll have seen how it goes, and there's a next one, it will be much easier.

That was me. That thing was a bearcat to get installed, but I got it done in the end. Then it took a while (read: number of actuations) for the takedown lever to loosen up to a "usable" state - but all's well now!

[ithacaartist]

Originally Posted by Zorba

That was me. That thing was a bearcat to get installed, but I got it done in the end. Then it took a while (read: number of actuations) for the takedown lever to loosen up to a "usable" state - but all's well now!

Yep, I remember...just didn't want to be a name-dropper! I assure you that the imagery you gave us was unforgettable!

[Thor]

I usually check the fit from the outside holding the long side and putting the shaft down in the hole and rotate it to make sure it is not over size. Then oil the hole in the frame and I usually take a small tip of a toothpick on the right side in the groove, this will lift the long side slightly up and the peg/shaft will go into the hole better. Use a small pin punch and light ball peen and lightly tap it into the hole and remove the toothpick to the right and check the fit with a couple of light taps of the punch. DONT force it or it might break. Then as you install the bolt you should feel resistance on the right side as the round part of the bolt is lifted slighty above the larger hole in the frame. This is indicating that the spring is doing its job and pushing up on the bottom of the bolt. Push down on the bot as you push right on the flat side to get it in place VOILA......or something like that. DONT USE a HUGE THOR HAMMER!!