Winchester 2400 (1400) takedown

[kencox]

This was originally posted in the general Shotgun forum but perhaps it belongs here where the experts can read it.
I have a Winchester 2400 that is badly in need of cleaning. I have downloaded the manual for the Winchester 1400 (which is supposed to be identical) but cannot remove either the forearm or the barrell. After I remove the valve cap, the forearm and the barrell are supposed to slide off. Unfortunately, they slde about 1/4 inch and stop as if they are contacting something. I am afraid of breaking something if I try to use force (hammer); I know there must be a better way.
Can anyone out there help? Has anyone solved this problem before?
I would really appreciate any assistance on this.

Ken

 

[guntech]

Is your bolt/action open or closed? If it is closed the bolt lugs are locked into the barrel..

I suggest first cocking the gun, putting the safety on and removing the trigger group assembly.... then with the action open see if the barrel will remove... sometimes it will require moving the action back and forth a bit for everything in the forend to clear on the semi autos...

 

[kencox]

I have tried with the bolt open, closed, and half open. I have not tried removing the trigger group first but will try anything.
Thanks