M14 problems for a newbie :s

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Duke878

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I have a stock 07 Norc M14 and I went to fire a box at the new gun club I joined (AFGC). For some off reason after firing my first round, the bolt wouldn't extract and the action wouldnt cycle. I had to #### the action each time to extract-eject-load a new round. When cycling the 4th round, the action was very difficult to action! After taking the mag out, I cocked it back and forth and was smooth! WTF?!?

I dont have anything done to it. If it's the gas system, what would be the solution? And is there a pre-fire check to ensure it's working again so I don't have to find out at the range next time!

Many thanks in advance m14 gurus!

Duke878
 
If it won't cycle, it sounds like the spindle valve is set so that the gas system is disabled. Is the slot in it in the horizontal or vertical position?

This is what is meant by the spindle valve:
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As shown in the pictures, the vertical postion enables the gas system, thus making the gun semi auto. In the horizontal postion, it shuts it off the gas system, so that rifle grenades can be used. In this postion, it basically turns the gun into a straight pull bolt action.

Hope this information helps.:)
 
When you clean your m14 you will turn spindle valve is set so that the gas system is disabled as to keep your gas system dry. Just remember to turn it back on :D
 
One thing I've heard is that firing this design with the gas flow off is hard on it... as tho the gas pressure energy's shock to the system is softened by having it operate the op-rod (and all that's connected to it). This might be why it was so tough to open...?
 
Kayser Sose said:
One thing I've heard is that firing this design with the gas flow off is hard on it... as tho the gas pressure energy's shock to the system is softened by having it operate the op-rod (and all that's connected to it). This might be why it was so tough to open...?
Click to expand...

shutting off the gas system will not harm the action
your rifle simply ceases to be a semi auto with the gas off and will require manual cycling with every shot.
 
Have I ever got funny stories for all of you about the spindle valve... :D The fun you can have with your buddies new to the M14 platform is priceless! :dancingbanana:
 
NavyCuda said:
Perhaps I should rephrase that. Mine is seized open.
Click to expand...

ok there's a couple of ways to fix that- but it's 3rd echelon stuff, and you might not be comfortable doing it- 1) with the combo tool or a PROPER FITTING screwdriver in place, LIGHTLY tap the screw head- it may be slightly siezed-or 2- drive out the pin on the left side of the rifle, and push the valve out , clean out the crap in the channel, and re-seat the valve- i can't remember if there's an o-ring in there or not- the doctor or hungry should be able to chime in here
 
t-star said:
ok there's a couple of ways to fix that- but it's 3rd echelon stuff, and you might not be comfortable doing it- 1) with the combo tool or a PROPER FITTING screwdriver in place, LIGHTLY tap the screw head- it may be slightly siezed-or 2- drive out the pin on the left side of the rifle, and push the valve out , clean out the crap in the channel, and re-seat the valve- i can't remember if there's an o-ring in there or not- the doctor or hungry should be able to chime in here
Click to expand...

I have an impact driver for removing stubborn screws, that likely will do the trick for the valve. I know I'm going to replace the gas system anyways... and it's in the open position so it can stay like that for now.
 
yup what tstar said.
drive out the retaining pin, drive out the spindle valve and clean away.
it is acceptable to use a crocus cloth or very fine emory cloth to polish the spindle valve post.
USGI specs on the spindle valve of service rifles was that the spindle valve should be able to be manipulated with finger pressure and the combo tool was to be used in case it got seized.

however, you do not want to go nuts polishing it, you can end up with blow by at the spindle valve if you polish too much :D
 
thx, doc- i don't have my hands in anymore - most of what i remember is what they call field -expedient-and it's been a while since i wore a uniform
 
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