.38 Officer's Special-action 'hanging up'?

[TennBill]

I've been working on this gun for awhile trying to put it back in shape. Seems there are one or two places where the action locks up, both in single and DA. I can't see anything suggesting a burr in the cylinder bolt slot, or anything unusual in the rachet or with the hand. This a single screw cylinder lock screw with a pointed plunger; however, there is no spring...seems there should be. I can find no end play in the cylinder. Also, I note the bolt withdraws and immediately comes back up as the cylinder is turning...is this normal. The bolt is sharp edged, but no apparent burrs. Reluctant to start stoning without suggestions....any help? Bill

[capstan]

Yes,the single screw detents have a spring. That may be the crux of your problem. Its also possible that the bolt tip is coming off the rebound to quickly as well and may need to be bent inward some.

[A1A]

As capstan says, there should be a spring in the detent. The bolt should begin to retract immediately but not drop immediately after retracting. Use the timing checks in this thread Colt Revolver Timing Checks. If you are going to diagnose problems and attempt repairs you really should have a copy of The Colt Double Action Revolvers, A Shop Manual, Vol. I by Jerry Kuhnhausen available from Midway, Brownells and various booksellers. It indeed sounds like the bolt tip is escaping too soon and may not be returning correctly which can hang up the action by not allowing the cylinder to turn. Obviously other things could also be wrong. The book is highly recommended.

Just for kicks, make sure that the rebound lever pin is installed correctly and stays in place. If it shifts out of the hole in either side of the web, it will allow the rebound lever to twist and can cause the action to hang up.

[TennBill]

I'll check these out and give an update. Thanks!