At the range yesterday my cousin's Mini 14 jammed. The bolt could move but the operating rod would not. Had to open it with a hammer. If allowed to slam forward again it jammed but the bolt was loose.This was one of the first of these carbines and since have changed to the point that Ruger says they can not repair as they have no parts.They suggested viewing a field strip video they have and totally clean all parts and go from there.
Have any of you guys had any experience with one of these first production Mini 14s? If so what can you offer to solve this problem ? roger Thanks

The bolt was a loss? What does that mean?
The only issue I have had with these is the operating rod rusting around the piston; the gas cylinder is inside of the operating rod.

So the bolt is loose in the gun but the op rod is tight?

Loss or did you mean Loose? If so, my answer stands.

What series Mini 180 181 ect first three of the serial number

My guess would be crud on the piston, slide assembly, and guide rod. Disassembly, cleaning and lubrication would be in order.

http://www.gunpartscorp.com/Ma...ies-39655.htm?page=2

quote:

Originally posted by richj:
So the bolt is loose in the gun but the op rod is tight?

Correct. roger

quote:

Originally posted by dpcd:
The bolt was a loss? What does that mean?
.

It means I'm a poor spelller. roger

quote:

Originally posted by p dog shooter:
What series Mini 180 181 ect first three of the serial number

It's a 180 Serial# 38896. roger

Anyone else?? roger