S&W M29-2 cylinder locked up

[DukeConnor]

Took the 44 to the range today.
This smith probably only has 200 rounds through it.

Shot one cylinder of 44. 8 grains unique with 240 gr SWC.

load the next 6. shot 3 then the gun locked up.

trigger won't pull.
hammer won't cock.
can't open the cylinder.
cylinders release doesn't move.

the three remaining bullets show no sign of the bullets moving forward to cause it to jam.

I would appreciate any ones experience to help me get this resolved.

Thanks THR

 

[mcb]

Ejector rod might have started unscrewing. That will lock them up.

 

[DukeConnor]

That is what i have read. problem us how do i get it apart ?

 

[BBBBill]

If that is the problem, then you need to tighten it COUNTER-CLOCKWISE. Post 1961 are left hand thread. Insert a thin piece of card stock like a business card between the ejector rod and the shroud. You will need to pre-curve the card stock to get it to go all the way around the rod. Pinch it tightly between your fingers and use it like a strap wrench to tighten the rod enough to get it open. Alternatively, use a popsicle stick or tongue depressor to wedge against the rod while you turn the cylinder.

 

[a5werkes]

It may be easier to turn the cylinder while holding / pressing the ejector rod on its knurled portion; use a feeler gauge or single edge razor blade to depress the cylinder stop to allow the cylinder to turn. Left hand threads.

Also might try using a curved pick to engage the ejector rod locking bolt and pull it forward releasing the rod.

 

[DukeConnor]

great ideas. thanks to all. i will give it a try this morning and post the results

 

[a5werkes]

Slow morning on my bench. Just for fun I measured the gap about the ejector rod in this Taurus 85. Also tried using braided fishing line to wrap about the knurled portion to rotate it like a fire stick. It works pretty well as the ejector rod threads are already loose.......that's how the situation unfolded to begin with. Unfortunately can't upload a 20 sec video.

 

[DukeConnor]

Success ! Thanks everybody for the great advice.

Is the ejector backing out a common problem ?

Does anyone locktite them ?

 

[mcb]

Success ! Thanks everybody for the great advice.

Is the ejector backing out a common problem ?

Does anyone locktite them ?

Yes, all mine. Use the blue removable kind or even better use Vibra-tite an anti-vibration thread treatment. It will keep it from coming lose under use but still lets you easily disassemble it later if needed.

 

[DukeConnor]

Yes, all mine. Use the blue removable kind or even better use Vibra-tite an anti-vibration thread treatment. It will keep it from coming lose under use but still lets you easily disassemble it later if needed.

Great. Thanks.

 

[Kp321]

There are other possible things that would cause your lock up problem. A soft primer could have extruded into the firing pin hole which will also lock it up. If that's the problem, gently hitting the cylinder with a soft hammer while holding the cylinder release should shear off the offending primer and allow it to open.

 

[whughett]

Thanks and a tip of the cap to the OP. I have that gun and have never had that problem. Now if I ever do I’ll know what to look for.