Where to buy SKS Gas Piston - Please help!

Dalkhu

Dalkhu

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Hey guys fixing up an abused SKS (acquired from a friend) its almost perfect, but it looks like it needs a new gas piston as the existing one is completely corroded and not really fixable.

Where are the best places to buy one, preferably one that has a reasonable shipping option. (googled and found lever arms, and shipping was 34 dollars on a 20 dollar piston :eek:)

Thanks in advance!
 
Red - Do you not Understand how a SKS runs ? The gas piston drives the operating rod into the bolt, etc to re-load the action. If thee piston is severely corroded it won't move enough, if at all.
Here's some info -> https://www.yooperj.com/
 
I think it's one scenario to say there is a chunk and/or a significant portion of the gas piston missing.

It is another scenario where there is just rust and pitting on the piston.

I believe the piston face is also chromed.
 
Dalkhu - Red is right about the Chrome-face. Unless it rusted terribly it should clean up with some 4-0 or 600g paper. And re fitting in the tube, both of mine 'Fall-out' if tipped over, even with the Op-end covered. Rattling is OK in my cases. I mention this 'cause I've read on SKSboards .com that they 'should not fall out' due to air-seal, but mine have always ( 10+ yrs ) been loose. In fact, I drilled 'extra holes' in the tube to reduce 'ejection ballistics' - mine now only throw about 10 feet. And I polished my piston (HA) and oil it - if kept clean after each use it doesn't collect cra*.
 
How bad is it? I got one for free years ago that had been shot with corrosive ammo, then left outside for many months. Had to hammer things apart and use a brush on a drill to clean up the chamber, but still didn't need to replace anything. Also, where in BC are you? I have a lathe and some small scraps of stainless, and could probably make something if you're local and really stuck.
Kristian
 
Hey everyone, thanks for the responses.

I actually decided to replace the gas tube as well upon further reflection. A friend had one of those.

The piston was extremely corroded, I was cleaning it and it snapped off at the head with just little pressure... which was surprising. The rest of the rifle is fine, so I suspect my buddy neglected the gas tube, and piston when cleaning.

I have seen some pretty bad ones over the years, but this piston was seriously FUBAR.

So, i will check lever. I just hate paying 34bucks for shipping when the piston is 20 dollars.
 
Dalkhu said:
Hey everyone, thanks for the responses.

I actually decided to replace the gas tube as well upon further reflection. A friend had one of those.

The piston was extremely corroded, I was cleaning it and it snapped off at the head with just little pressure... which was surprising. The rest of the rifle is fine, so I suspect my buddy neglected the gas tube, and piston when cleaning.

I have seen some pretty bad ones over the years, but this piston was seriously FUBAR.

So, i will check lever. I just hate paying 34bucks for shipping when the piston is 20 dollars.
Click to expand...



The piston should be fine after a thorough cleaning. Keep in mind that the piston on travels about a 1/4" when cycling. So the only part of the piston tube is that first quarter inch. Piston tubes are also EP serialized to match the gun.
 
Boris Badinov said:
The piston should be fine after a thorough cleaning. Keep in mind that the piston on travels about a 1/4" when cycling. So the only part of the piston tube is that first quarter inch. Piston tubes are also EP serialized to match the gun.
Click to expand...

Except for the part where it snapped off at the head....:rolleyes:
 
Dalkhu said:
Hey everyone, thanks for the responses.

I actually decided to replace the gas tube as well upon further reflection. A friend had one of those.

The piston was extremely corroded, I was cleaning it and it snapped off at the head with just little pressure... which was surprising. The rest of the rifle is fine, so I suspect my buddy neglected the gas tube, and piston when cleaning.

I have seen some pretty bad ones over the years, but this piston was seriously FUBAR.

So, i will check lever. I just hate paying 34bucks for shipping when the piston is 20 dollars.
Click to expand...

I am so curious now. Could we please have a picture of the old piston? I must know how far gone it was.
 
Boris already posted the link to Lever Arms.

FWIW, I bought a replacement, stainless steel piston about 20 years ago.

This one is in the States, but it gives you an idea of what to look for.

https://opticsandammo.com/product/tapco-sks-gas-piston-mfg-16685/
 
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