S&W 66-1 Timing

[fvdberge]

Where can I order a "hand" or "pawl" (the thingy that comes out and turns the cylinder) for my S&W 66-1?

Frank

 

[MrBorland]

Here and here. Call S&W, too.

Before ordering, though, it's worth a call to any of these to be 100% sure it's the right part.

 

[ghitch75]

more than just the pawl controls timin'....don't just throw parts at it.....

 

[fvdberge]

Thanks MrBorland and ghitch75.
What besides the hand can cause the timing issue? It only happens on 3 of the 6 chambers.

 

[ghitch75]

i would send it to Smith and let them fix it....

 

[MrBorland]

What besides the hand can cause the timing issue? It only happens on 3 of the 6 chambers.

A number of things:

Generally, the back of the ejector (specifically where the hand pushes on each ratchet), and/or the cylinder stop slots. One or more of either may be ever-so-slightly out of shape. Either of these is more likely than the hand if only some of the chambers are affected.

btw, does it seem to always be the same chambers affected, and are the 3 chambers next to each other?

 

[Malamute]

For newer versions of Smiths, the extractor star is replaced to correct timing, on that vintage gun, it's the hand. A standard hand may correct it, tho they used to make an oversize hand. I didnt see them last time I looked at Brownells, but I may have missed them.

It's very common for one or a couple-3 chambers to go out of time. I've never seen all go out. The hand may drop in, or it may need a little fitting. Just get one and try it, see what happens. The part doesn't cost much. If that doesnt fix it, (and it probably will), you arent out much.

 

[rcmodel]

I may have missed where you said, but how is it out of time on three chambers?

Is it setting on the couch, cocking it as slowly as possible using both hands, while watching the bolt through the crack in the light from the TV.

Or is it failing to carry up in normal single or double action use?

The first is not a problem, because you never use the gun like that.

If it cocks & locks when used at normal speed, I would not worry about it.

If it gets worse and fails to carry up at normal operating speed, send it to S&W for an oil change & overhaul.

rc

 

[Malamute]

I disagree. It should function positively even with slight resistance on the cylinder.

Yes, you may be able to "get away with it" to use a gun that's out of time, but it isn't functioning right under those conditions, and should be corrected.

 

[ArchAngelCD]

Isn't that problem covered under the S&W warranted? If so they even cover the S&H both ways.

 

[Waywatcher]

I tend to agree with Malamute.

There is no quantifiable "normal" speed; a revolver should lock into place on the next chamber even when cocked slowly for positive function. Of course you can get away with out it, but not when it starts to get dirty, or if one stages the trigger, or if one cocks the hammer at less than ideal speed and thoroughness, etc.

 

[Remllez]

I'd take a close look at the cylinder bolt/stop. You may just need an oversize bolt and or spring.
If under warranty e-mail for a call tag and let S&W have at it....they made it they know how to fix it.

 

[earplug]

Powers makes a over size hand. I bought mine from Midway.
Several good books on the subject, Jerry Kuhnhausen's book THE S&W REVOLVER IS A a wealth of knowledge.
You might as well buy a yoke alignment rod and some end shake shims while your at it.
Keeping your own wheel gun running is a worthwhile skill.