Need help w/ Vaquero

[texas chase]

I'm trying to install a new spring kit into an "old" Ruger Vaquero. I tried the method of taking the grips off, insert pin, and pull the spring mechanism out BUT... I couldn't get the mainspring mechanism out. (Yes, I've read the manual but it hasn't helped at this point.)

So, I tried a total disassembly and got as far as removing the grip frame from the cylinder frame. I then decided that this was just too much at this point and wanted to put it back together. Seems simple enough right? Well, I can't get the grip frame back on to the cylinder frame.

I would appreciate any help. Photos are REALLY APRECIATED.

Thanks

 

[Virginian]

Gotta get the trigger spring in above the small ledge on the trigger.

 

[calaverasslim]

Yep!

Ben there, dun that and got the T shirt.

It say........toopid..


I went the route you took and I shore wisht you had talked to me first. Wudda tole you doan try that.:banghead::banghead::banghead:


I have a friend that is a great gunsmith and the best part is he is free. He put mine back together for me. Never tried that again.

Your down around San Antonio, let me know. I'll introduce you to him.

 

[mtngunr]

OK....you DID cock the hammer, inserted the pin in the base of the strut, then DEcocked the hammer to relieve tension before trying removal?

Ditto the above trigger spring comment....also checking to see if you did leave the pin in the strut while trying to remove the grip-frame?

 

[texas chase]

oops...

Virginian- how do I that?

Mtngunner- I think you found my main problem. I did not put the pin in the spring lock before trying to disassemble... the second time. Now what do I do?

Thanks for the help- I really appreciate it.

 

[mtngunr]

If its a big old Vaquero, there is no spring lock, only the strut, seat, and spring....you'll need to put those three back together again outside the gun WITH the pin holding them together....what I have done is to use a vise with soft jaws to hold the strut, then compressed the spring with dikes/cutters opened just enough to clear the strut, and then placed seat and pin while holding the spring compressed....this is dangerous, and the spring could fly out and blind you or get lost forever...be careful...or, just fight like heck to get the strut in the hammer recess and it all held together until you can get a couple of screws started....hope you have a wife you're on good terms with, as this is a three hand task.

The trigger return spring is easiest dealt with by unhooking it from the rear on both sides, positioning it correctly during assembly, and then rehooking the rear two legs after the gripframe is installed...

 

[texas chase]

OK, half way there...

Alright! I got the strut, spring, and seat (yes, its an old model vaquero) out of the grip frame. I got the new spring on the strut with the seat AND PIN in place. And I got grip frame back on the cylinder frame. But... I can't get the spring/strut/seat back into the gun!?! Help!

 

[mtngunr]

Make sure you've got everything pointed the correct direction...seat down, strut ball-end up, upper angle of strut forward...hammer fully forward for install of strut, ball end in hammer base recess, hammer then cocked for pin removal....

 

[Virginian]

If the trigger spring legs are unhooked, you may need to hook them up and get them out of the way to squeeze in the hammer spring and strut. Make sure the upper end of the strut is in the slot in the hammer or you will never get it.

 

[texas chase]

thanks

I got everything back together with new springs installed last night. Thanks for all the help fellas.

She works like a champ!