Need help with Rem model 11 springs

[bainter1212]

Hey all,

My grandfather is passing down his old Remington model 11 to me. It is in 16 gauge and shoots well....however the recoil is a bit stout. The friction rings are set up correctly, however I suspect that the springs have never been changed.

I would like to change the springs. One problem.....this model 11 has a square wire recoil spring.

Browning A5s use a round wire spring. I called Midwest Gun Works (they carry spring kits for the A5). The gentleman on the phone emphatically stated that the A5 round wire spring is NOT interchangeable with the square wire spring. I have seen older posts on other forums that stated (vaguely) that some folks have swapped out recoil springs from the A5 onto the Model 11 with no issues.

Does anyone actually have any experience with this? I don't want to spend $65 for an A5 spring kit and not have it work.

Any reply is appreciated, thanks gents.




(mods, if this belongs in Gunsmithing, please move it for me. Thanks!)

 

[PapaG]

I seriously doubt the springs are the issue. Are you positive the washer/friction ring are set for the load you're using?
Light loads, washer goes against frame, cup down, spring next, then friction ring.
Heavy loads, spring on frame, washer on top, cup up, then friction ring.
Not doubting you, just suggesting.

 

[Virginian]

The friction pieces can get worn, and that can affect recoil. Try less lube.

 

[bainter1212]

Thanks for the replies.

Next time I shoot it I will make sure to wipe the mag tube clean with little to no lube.

I understand how the friction pieces are set up. I have two Browning Light Twelves myself......I have changed out the springs in both of those. In both instances, the new spring was approximately two inches longer than the old, indicating that those springs had definitely taken a set and needed to be changed. Heck, one was 50 yrs old and the other 60.
Both of those ran very smooth after the recoil spring changeout.

I suspect the vast majority of A5/model 11/Savage 720 owners never change out the springs, because the gun will continue to function even if the springs get worn out and lose power. This may explain why these guns have a reputation for stout recoil.
I would like this gun to last as long as possible. I am pondering just ordering a spring set for the A5 and trying it out.

 

[PapaG]

If you can get the compression specs, like they give for 1911 springs, and they are close, go for it.

 

[Sovblocgunfan]

I changed a square wire spring to round wire spring a few years ago. It works fine.

I would not hesitate to do it again.

Virginian is right. Change the friction pieces too while you are at it. That will cut down on recoil a great deal.

 

[bainter1212]

I changed a square wire spring to round wire spring a few years ago. It works fine.

I would not hesitate to do it again.

Virginian is right. Change the friction pieces too while you are at it. That will cut down on recoil a great deal.

Thank you sir. That is exactly what I am hoping is possible and I will take your word for it and place my order.

The MGW kits come with recoil, action and mag springs, as well as new friction pieces.

 

[farscott]

The Remington Model 11 also has a fiber buffer in the rear of the action. That buffer is degraded by solvents and oils. If you are changing the friction rings, friction pieces, and springs, I would not be surprised if the buffer and its rivet also need to be replaced. The buffer reduces felt recoil, but its primary function is to reduce the chances of stress cracks in the rear of the receiver.

I bought a lifetime supply of friction rings, friction pieces, buffers, and buffer rivets from eGunParts.com and sarco.com. I believe I spent less than $100 for five complete sets of parts.

 

[USAF_Vet]

I wonder if the recoil springs and friction ring can be replaced with the ones from an 11-48. My 48 doesn't require adjustment of the friction ring when changing loads.

 

[rodinal220]

Browning:good for friction pieces,springs

http://www.browning.com/customerser...tsprices/pdf/parts/2013/12-arn-432-auto-5.pdf


Wolff: the spring people

https://www.gunsprings.com/index.php?page=items&cID=2&mID=108&dID=199

If you replace the action and recoil spring and new friction pieces it should run great.Lube the mag tube(outside) sparingly.

Many of these fine old guns A5,Rem 11 and Savage have the recoil system either set up wrong,missing pieces or they are worn out.

 

[bainter1212]

I ordered the MGW kit and will install it when I get it. Will report back the results.