10/22 receiver

[KingPin]

So last night I was taking apart my new to me 10/22 for a good spring cleaning (I was getting odd results shooting gophers at 60 yards or so shooting way off).

Anyways when I took the rifle apart the large bolt on the top part of the receiver just fell out.....I've heard that in older rifles this is normal (and i'm certain this is of a fair age) but should I be concerned that it really doesnt stay in place?

can I replace it? Does it warrant replacement? If so should I buy one of those plastic looking bolts to put in its place or should I try to find a metal replacement?

Any thoughts or ideas would be appreciated.

 

[Pop]

Nothing to worry about, just be careful not to lose it.

 

[KingPin]

thanks - I was actually a little bit worried that it came out so easily....... First time i'd stripped it down this far to do the cleaning and oiling.

 

[Pop]

The pins in the trigger group assembly are the other ones to watch for, they like to fall out and roll under things for some reason.

 

[southerner]

Nothing to worry about, just be careful not to lose it.

if he does happen to lose it i think there would be thousands just sitting around from those who replaced it with the buffer

 

[supernova]

If I turn my '89 10/22 on its side the pins fall right out. Its normal and nothing to worry about.

 

[KingPin]

Thanks for the assurances....I've proceeded with a more in depth take down tonite knowing that its nothing to be worried about....I'm amazed at how dirty she is....what a dirty girl (now what if my wife knew???)

If I turn my '89 10/22 on its side the pins fall right out. Its normal and nothing to worry about.