Gas bushing heads up

[btmonnat]

Bought a set of gas bushings for my mini 14 from ASI also got there integrated barrel strut. Installed with 2 Wilson 1911 buffers and strut with 045 bushing. Gun would not pick up next shell after first was fired so I decided to go up to the 050. I was 2hrs. trying to get the 045 out after shooting the gun maybe 25 times. I called ASI and they said it probably expanded on the end that contacted the barrel. They told me to champher both ends of the 050 before I put it in. I don't think these are made of hard enough steel or they might not do this. I wonder if having them hardened would help? Still waiting for weather to see if this 050 works.

 

[Squib308]

OP-

I had a similar issue with the ASI bushings. From what I can tell, the issue is the bushing may be a bit too long so when the gas block is tightened down over the barrel, the bushing is getting crushed inside the gas block. this will prevent it from being removed from the block. nowadays i measure the length of the bushing along with the depth inside the gas block. according to ASI the bushing should be shorter to prevent it from getting stuck. so last time around i took off a few thousands from the bushing and problem solved.

good luck.

 

[btmonnat]

Thanks for the heads up, wish I would have known this before I put the 050 in. The gun is working fine now and shooting just under 1 1/4 groups at 100 yard with factory Hornady 55gr spire points if I do my part. So it is beyond my expectations.

 

[Littlebluetruck]

Hello,
Thanks for posting about the gas bushings. I was about to try the 0.045”, but given your experience I will start with the 0.050” and see how it goes.

To add to the thread, my stock bushing is 0.295” long, and the ASI is 0.3”, so just 5 mils longer. With either bushing installed, the gas tube is “loose” in that the bushings do not put any load on it when the block is tightened. It has always been this way and was 1.75 MOA until the fit in the stock loosened up. I need to try shimming next. FYI I have a stainless pencil barrel ranch rifle from the 89’s or 90’s.
Thanks,
Rich

 

[Squib308]

the issue with the bushing being too long appears to be more common on the 580- series mini's.