New Model Blackhawk loading gate binding

[bcfryer]

I installed a steel grip frame in place of the aluminum grip frame in a Ruger New Model Blackhawk 45 Colt. The frame came from a older model Vaquero 2003 or so. Looks good seems to work properly except the loading gate sometimes is binding and wont open. I can cycle the action and this will release it. Some times everything works properly. I would love to know what is happening. Any help appreciated.

 

[contender]

Welcome to the Forum!
Check the spring that puts the tension on the loading gate. It has a taper cut end that often can slip out & cause issues.

 

[bcfryer]

still have not figured this thing out. I put the original aluminum grip frame back on the Blackhawk convertable and still have the issue with the loading gate sometimes not wanting to open as it should . I can cycle the action and it will usually clear things up. ????????? :?: :?: :?: :?:

 

[Dan in MI]

It's been a long time but I believe one of the frame screws is longer and if they get reversed you will have gate issues.

 

[cadillo]

You need to take a look at the stud in the cylinder latch. They will sometimes bind on the bottom side of the spring when opening the gate. I take a file and relieve some material from the surface of the stud where it binds on the lower leg of the spring. Whenever I fit a new latch, I always fit the stud to the spring to free things up.

If that idea does not appeal to you, try another spring, as the bends can be altered during disassembly and subsequent reassembly exacerbating or even creating the problem you describe.

 

[Chuck 100 yd]

Midway offers a modified (softer) spring for the CAS shooters. I have used it in a couple of my Ruger BH revolvers and in one .44 flat top. It makes operating the gate a lot easier and for low recoiling loads I have not had the issue of the gate opening part way as can happen with the hard kickers.It seems to be a great product.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/558259/power-custom-loading-gate-spring-ruger-blackhawk-super-blackhawk-vaquero-steel?cm_vc=ProductFinding

 

[Hondo44]

If the trigger does not return completely, the gate will not open. Cycling the hammer usually works because it resets the trigger.

Check both grips frames for the trigger dragging on one side or another. When replacing or changing grip frames. the hammer and trigger should both be checked for freedom of movement and the grip frame akigned flush with the cyl frame before the screws are tightened.

Trigger return spring with one leg unhooked can also cause this problem.

 

[bcfryer]

Finally figured it out . The cylinder base pin was not locked in place and this has happened more than once. Base pin latch is not holding and the pin works itself out slightly just enough to cause my problem. I see the transfer bar is not being held in place and jams the action.

 

[cadillo]

Brownell's sells a heavy duty base pin catch spring, which I install on all Ruger Single Actions. It has cured that issue on those that would walk the base pin, and has prevented it on the others that never had the chance.