How to change Luger Main spring?

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by mrerick

If there is any variation in the way the slide or toggle train movement cycles between sloppy loose feeling and tight binding, this could relate to fitting problems.

Some members who do a lot of barrel swapping have noticed that the sides of the barrel extension ['receiver'] can be misaligned, or twisted, or even bent in such a way that the extension drags on the frame, especially in the frame 'ears' area. This can be checked by a couple of spirit levels across the extension sides; careful measurement of the gap between the sides; and a ground parallel held to the extension sides, to see if there are any gaps when held to a light. A ground drill rod placed in the bore will also show up any misalignment when used in conjunction with the spirit levels.

Any small faults can usually be remedied with a combination of lapping compounds to get a smooth drag-free action. Severe misalignment calls for more drastic action, such as careful bending of affected parts.

As always, hope for the best and be prepared for the worst.

[ithacaartist]

I'll chime in with Marc and Rich here. Testing without springs will reveal a serious misalignment if it's there. Whether the forks are bowed, twisted, splayed apart, pinched together, or parallel but offset will make a difference. All parts of a spring-less action should move like buttah!