1911 grip bushing problem

[new_pistol_guy]

I got a little overzealous when I was changing a grip on my 1911 and broke the screw off in the bushing. I am new to the 1911 model pistols. Do the bushings just screw into the frame? How is the best way to replace the bushings? The pistol is a RIA 1911A1 if that might help with the resolution of my problem.

Thanks for your help.

 

[gb6491]

Hi, welcome to the forums.
The bushings do indeed screw into the frame (note: they maybe staked or have Loctite on them).
When ordering new bushings it might be a good idea to get a bushing tool as well(<$10)

Here is some reading on keeping them in place:
http://www.thehighroad.org/archive/index.php/t-50641.html

Regards,
Greg

BTW: the grip screws just need to be snug

 

[rcmodel]

Rather then replacing the bushing, see if you can get the broken screw out.
It shouldn't be tight at all.

Use a small center-punch and put a dimple in the edge of it. Then tap-tap-tap it in the direction to back it out of the bushing.

It should come right out far enough to finish un-screwing it by hand.

Alternately, it could be center-drilled and an Easy-Out used to remove it.

rcmodel

 

[SRT1]

The threads on the bushings are pretty small and tight, you may have damaged them in torqueing them like you did or they may be "crossthreaded" now. While you can probably get the broken screw out, I'd go ahead and replace the bushing. Everyone needs a bushing tool and extra bushings around anyway, and it is pretty cheap compared to having to "mess" with every screw you put in the damaged bushing from now on. Just my opinion.
Good luck!
SRT

 

[roadrider18]

Yes, all the reasons why one should use slotted screws for retaining one's grips are documentented.

But, if you use screws requiring an allen wrench, and use the short arm to tighten, rarely, will you over-tighten (over-torque) the screw.

 

[Jim K]

Correct; with Allen screws, you don't overtighten, you just strip the corners out and then the screw can't be removed at all. Torx screws are fine but the normal slot head is better than an Allen head.

Jim