i accuumulated a nice old marlin 39a a bit ago. Having a problem with feeding. if i work the lever slowly it works just fine, but if i work it fast it stovepipes. Not knowinc chit about lever actions I clean hell out of it, but still does the same thing. Any ideas??

This will seem totally irrelevant but take it apart and look down the barrel and tell me if there is any irregularities seen in the barrel.... maybe something like "lumps" in the barrel?

quote:

Originally posted by butchloc:
Not knowinc chit about lever actions I clean hell out of it, but still does the same thing. Any ideas??

Yes, dirt wasn't the problem.

I assume that it feeds fine but doesn't kick the case clear. It could be that the extractor doesn't have a good grip on the case, or, the ejector is shallow and not making a good solid hit on the case, or, you are not operating the lever completely to the rear, or, there is excess side play with the bolt. Make sure the two halves of the receiver are tight.

barrel is fine - ejection is fine, but the feeding isn't - the new round stovepipes (i.e. the nose of the bullet flips up to high and catches on the barrel above the chamber)

quote:

Originally posted by butchloc:
barrel is fine -

Well then, it's not my old one and I can't offer suggestions!

quote:

Originally posted by butchloc:
barrel is fine - ejection is fine, but the feeding isn't - the new round stovepipes (i.e. the nose of the bullet flips up to high and catches on the barrel above the chamber)

To me, a stove pipe occurs when the action slams shut on the empty catching it part way out.

Your problem is between the carrier, the carrier rocker and the lever. Send it to a gunsmith who is familiar with 39's. Shouldn't be too big of a deal to correct. Is this the old model?

yup - old model

Check the cartidge stop that lays in the slot in the ride side.


Jim Wisner

There is also a cartridge guide in the top of the receiver just to the rear of the barrel. It is held by a screw thru the top of the receiver. Approximately 5/8" long and 1/4" wide. I think this would cause the problem you describe if it is missing. Bill

thanks guys - now at least i've got something to look for