[johnnytang24]

Hi all,

I'm having a problem with my S&W 642 and I would appreciate any help. It appears that the pin in front (my apologies for the lack of terminology) is now sticking too far out such that it makes the cylinder difficult to open and close. I can close the cylinder if I push the pin forward a bit, and it will open with some effort. This started happening today after I cleaned it: wiping down the gun and scrubbing the barrel with Ed's Red with cotton balls and toilet paper. I am at a loss of what to do.

Thanks.

[nitesite]

Your ejector rod is probably unscrewed a bit. Put some empty cases in the cylinder chambers and tighten it (it has reverse threads ~ counterclockwise to tighten when looked at from the front of the gun).

[johnnytang24]

Nitesite,

Thanks for the response. Such an easy answer, my apologies for wasting your time on such a trivial matter. I guess I need to learn more about my firearms.

Thanks.

[fiVe]

Nothing trivial about it. I learned something. Thanks for posting this.

[the kurch man]

I think that any info is valuable info. Sure, I don't have the problem now, but if it happens, I now know. I just purchased a 642 last week so timing is perfect. This site is loaded with people that have a wealth of info - and thanks to all for that...

[Brian Williams]

You might also put some clear fingernail polish on the threads or the non-locking locktite. If you use the locking type you will not get it off unless you apply some heat to the threads.
Remember to wrap the ejector rod with some thin leather or something similar to grip the rod without scratching it.

Also put the empties in the charge hole to prevent bending the ejector rod or the star.

[KTM]

There a few different types of loctite. The Blue is low strength. Stay away from the the red stuff.