Mec 600 restoration

[Tyler Conhiser]

So I just got this mec 600 from the early 80’s maybe. It’s well over 30 years old and hasn’t been used in probably at least 15-20. It’s been sitting in my grandfathers shop and it’s rusted to all hell. I cleaned a lot of it up but the column seems to be rusted to the top where it’s supposed to move. I can’t find an easy way to get rid of it. Or if there’s a locking pin somewhere that’s make me feel really stupid. Any easy way to release the Column from its rust or any pins that may be stopping it?

 

[entropy]

A rubber mallet applied judiciously, in the right places and in the right direction, might loosen it up-there is no 'locking pin.'

For MEC 600 Jr's made before 1982:

https://www.mecoutdoors.com/600-jr-parts-before-1982

For MEC 600 Jr's 1982-85:

https://www.mecoutdoors.com/600-jr-parts-1982-to-1985

For MEC 600 Jr's 1985 on:

https://www.mecoutdoors.com/600-jr-mark-v

Study these to learn which one you have, and how to get it back into shape. For the older ones, (the first two, the third is the current model) you might have to order any parts needed direct from MEC. They are usually cheaper otherwise through dealers listed on the website.

 

[George P]

Post some pics so we can see exactly what you're talking about

 

[rdnktrkr]

I mix acetone and transmission fluid 50/50 and use that and Kroil, let them set for a couple of hours and reapply for a day or so if no movement sometimes heat helps especially with dissimilar metals.

 

[Tyler Conhiser]

I’ve got it disassembled but that top part is rusted to the Column.

 

[George P]

If you REALLY want to go to the trouble it will need a good soaking in Kroil or similar for a while. If you just want to start reloading, newer versions used can be found for under $100 on the Net

 

[murf]

soak it in a bucket of diesel for a week.

luck,

murf

 

[Tyler Conhiser]

See I’ve only put about $5 into this. I’ve removed a lot of the rust with a gel spray. Would soaking it then loosen it up?

 

[George P]

It SHOULD; whether or not it WILL is something different. Soaking it will allow the penetrant to get into places your spray may not

 

[murf]

what he said

murf

 

[Tyler Conhiser]

Ok I’ll try that. Thank you

 

[FROGO207]

Yeah I hate to give up on something that is probably fixable. But that said, if you are in a hurry to reload buying used may be a good choice. Or buy with a different GA in mind for the second one. Around here they are $50-$75 regularly. If you do fix it keep the thread going as we all like a good fixit thread.