Marlin M39m Failure to feed

[Tucker 2]

New to me Mountie that was made in the 70's I believe. Failure to feed on every round, but will feed almost every round if canted 45 degrees to the left and lever moved a bit slowly.

The problem occurs with all ammo makes and type.

Ejection works perfect.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Tom

Added Sat 7/25... When the new round jams the nose is just below the chamber mouth.

 

[Goatwhiskers]

First of all, a detailed clean and lube. Then the first likelihood is a weak spring in the mag tube, second would be a problem with the shell stop located on the left frame wall. Not complicated, but some analytical thinking required. Here endeth the lesson. Goatwhiskers the Elder

 

[Tucker 2]

Thanks for your reply. Detailed clean and lube accomplished. I will order a new spring and look into the shell stop as you suggested.

Tom

 

[Goatwhiskers]

A little hint: if you put in a new mag spring, of course you know how to tap out the little pin at the head end---tap on the long end sticking out. The other end has a little locking bur so the pin must go back in the way it came out. Also, the hole may not have been drill exactly centered on the tube, so be sure that the hole lines up correctly before you drive the pin back in. Goat

 

[Dfariswheel]

Other things to check are the bullet guides.

The Marlin has a flat spring-like guide in the top inside of the receiver that is often lost when someone mistakes the screw for a scope mounting hole.

The second bullet guide on the 1970's version 39 is a long heavy steel block in the right receiver side. This has a flat spring under it.

Both of these serve to help control and guide the cartridge during feeding.

Here's an exploded view of the Marlin:

http://www.stevespages.com/ipb-marlin-39a.html

The top bullet guide is part # 27 and its screw part #32.
The receiver bullet guide is part #41, its retaining pin part #44, and its spring part #55

 

[Tucker 2]

Thanks gents, I'll work on those suggestions today.