What is the trick for re-assembling a pre-64 winchester mod 70 bolt? Specifically the threaded pin that goes through the shroud. Can't for the life of me get it to go in so the threads will engage. The bolt functions fine without it, so not sure what it is for?

As long as the firing pin is oriented correctly it should go right in. I've never had a problem with one. Is it going in far enough to engage the thread or is the thread damaged?

The threads are not damaged. It is not going in far enough to engage them.

Take the firing pin assembly out and try the screw in just the shroud. If it still won't go in, there is something wrong with the thread. I can't imagine having the fiing pin assembly reversed but, with all the garage gunsmiths out there, you never know. That screw is supposed to fit in the angled cut on the firing pin and acts as a safety if the firing pin should break.

I have tested the screw in the hole and it screws in just fine so threads are not damaged. I'm at work now so will look at other possibilities when I get home later this afternoon. Thanks for the help.

I finally got it to go and now fuctions as its supposed to. Guess I wasn't holding my tongue just right. Thanks for all your help,