Does anyone have a good method for removing the plunger tube from a 1911 frame. I know how they are in there and how to tighten a loose one and install a new one I have never never removed one.
I would use a combination of the method used in Kuhnhausens volume #1 , looping the thickest wire that one can fit through the tube and twisting the ends to make a pulling handle and removing the stakes with a ball bit in a Dremel tool allowing the wire to pull the tube from the frame. If the tube resists the legs may be locktited and some heat may be required.
+1 on what Hawkmoon said. You dont need to remove the plunger tube. If you do and you don't put it back properly, you're gonna have some major headaches
Dave52... If by chance you're questioning how to tighten a loose plunger tube, that's a different scenario.
To my knowledge, there are two tools for that purpose. One is a vice grip version, and another is made by Gunrunner's. I bought the Gunrunner's tool from Brownell's which IMHO works very well.
I like Jolly Rogers' method, although I've never used the wire, just the ball bit in the Dremel--I'll try that next time!
I removed a loose one by pinching it in a vise and twisting the frame off the tube with adequate protection between the frame and vise.
I wouldn't try re-using a plunger tube I removed.
How do you tighten a loose plunger tube? Mine can be moved up and down.
It's done by restaking the ends of the legs that are in the frame, like re riviting or expanding the ends of the legs.
I just ordered a tool from Brownell's to restake the plunger tube. I see on other threads that Locktite is recommended. Where should this be placed and what strength of Locktite should be used?
It should be placed around the legs that will be staked, and the staking (crimping) performed before the Loctite has set up.
I generally do not approve of using red, but the plunger tube is supposed to be permanent, so red would be appropriate here.
Received the Brownells tool and restaked the existing tube and things are nice and tight for now. I did not use Locktite, we'll see how long this lasts before I have to put on a new tube.
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How do you tighten a loose plunger tube? Mine can be moved up and down.
If that gets any worse, your gun could seriously be a headache. I suggest get it fixed ASAP.
I should probably buy a replacement tube and have it on hand.