Diagnosis Ruger extractor issue?

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Wed Apr 14, 2021 7:32 pm

Guys,

I love my little Ruger .22-45 Lite. It’s very light and quite accurate. But it isn’t what I would call reliable. I’m going to post some photos from this afternoon and ask you what you think. (It does this with all kinds of ammo)

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Wed Apr 14, 2021 7:33 pm

Two more

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Wed Apr 14, 2021 7:36 pm

I never had this issue with a MK-I or a MK-II. But I’m guessing this is an extractor issue. I cleaned out under the extractor yesterday.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Wed Apr 14, 2021 7:55 pm

I have the identical pistol and it runs like a champ.
I can't say for sure it's the cause, but the hokey loaded chamber indicator does not aid in reliability.
I dumped mine and replaced it with a filler from Tandem Cross I believe. Not sure, I would have to look.
I also did the slingshot mod so the bolt release works as it should.
While I have made some changes, it is a great pistol and the only replacement for my beloved S&W 422 that I found satisfactory. Gave the 422 to my son.
Most 22 autos are just to big and heavy for a .22 IMO.

44shooter · Post by **44shooter** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 12:11 am

My MK II gas become more unreliable over time has has fired out of battery and ruptured cases a few times. Generally it does not like any hyper velocity or plus p loads. It's reliable with most high velocity solids and HPs but even slightly fast Power points HPs hang up.

Sixgun · Post by **Sixgun** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:24 am

The bolt appears to not coming back far and hard enough to pop out the empty....Just for the heck of it, spray some Rem Oil or other quality light oil liberally inside it and see what happens.

As those extractors are stamped metal, look at the contact point for any irregularities.

Nate Kiowa Jones · Post by **Nate Kiowa Jones** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:49 am

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Wed Apr 14, 2021 7:32 pm Guys,

I love my little Ruger .22-45 Lite. It’s very light and quite accurate. But it isn’t what I would call reliable. I’m going to post some photos from this afternoon and ask you what you think. (It does this with all kinds of ammo)

Does it do it every time. If not how often.

GunnyMack · Post by **GunnyMack** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 5:08 am

We KNOW 22 ammo is dirty, strip it down and clean it, soak the breech end in solvent for a couple hours then blow it out with compressed air. Then as Six mentioned look for bright & shiney spots. I suspect this is ammo related, quality of 22 ammo has to be slacking as these days the plants can't keep up. Try different brands? Does it still do it?
Sometimes just changing how you hold the gun can cause these types of failure.

Firing out of battery, yeah my Mk2 has done that too- kinda unnerving!

J Miller · Post by **J Miller** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 6:46 am

When my Ruger .22 auto started doing this, the problem was a worn extractor. It was worn under the hook where you couldn't see it. Once I replaced the extractor it worked properly.

Joe

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 8:56 am

Sixgun wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:24 am The bolt appears to not coming back far and hard enough to pop out the empty....Just for the heck of it, spray some Rem Oil or other quality light oil liberally inside it and see what happens.

I did exactly that yesterday. It did not resolve the issue. The extractor looks fine, but mine is an untrained eye.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 8:57 am

Nate Kiowa Jones wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:49 am Does it do it every time. If not how often.

Not every time. However, you won't get through 30 rounds (3 magazines) before you see it at least once.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 8:59 am

GunnyMack wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 5:08 am Try different brands? Does it still do it?

Remington, Federal, CCI......all does the same thing.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 9:00 am

J Miller wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 6:46 am When my Ruger .22 auto started doing this, the problem was a worn extractor. It was worn under the hook where you couldn't see it. Once I replaced the extractor it worked properly.

Joe

Thanks Joe. I ordered one from Midway. Hopefully this will resolve the problem.

Thank you all. I appreciate each of your helpful suggestions.

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 9:16 am

Multiple mags or only one. Either way clean your mag. Could be feeding a bit slow.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 11:29 am

jeepnik wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 9:16 am Multiple mags or only one. Either way clean your mag. Could be feeding a bit slow.

I thought about that and I have about a dozen mags. I'll clean them but I don't think this is mag related because the empty case is not getting out of the gun.

The jam is easy to clear becasue the cartridge to be fed into the chamber has already cleared the mag lips. The mag comes right out.

Blaine · Post by **Blaine** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 12:01 pm

Call Ruger. They will pay to have you send it, they will fix it free of charge, and send it back to you postage paid.

If you can print out all of the posts you made here, send them along as they will be asking you to describe the problem.

Sixgun · Post by **Sixgun** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 12:11 pm

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 8:56 am
Sixgun wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:24 am The bolt appears to not coming back far and hard enough to pop out the empty....Just for the heck of it, spray some Rem Oil or other quality light oil liberally inside it and see what happens.
I did exactly that yesterday. It did not resolve the issue. The extractor looks fine, but mine is an untrained eye.

I put somewhere around 12,000 out of a Mark 2 competition before the extractor just up and flew out of the gun.......

How about this......(I'm also untrained but I have a Masters degree from the "School of Hard Knocks").......one of the reasons I have multiples of most everything is because I'm known to tinker and screw it up and there's nothing like a twin to copy from or to compare with. If you do have another, or even a 10-22 try pulling on the extractor of the other gun and see if it's stronger or weaker.

Scott....we must all be bored.....(speaking for myself).......you have a minor gun issue and the world stops....

----006

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 1:02 pm

Sixgun wrote: ↑Thu Apr 15, 2021 12:11 pm Scott....we must all be bored.....(speaking for myself).......you have a minor gun issue and the world stops.... ----006

I'm just happy that folks want to help.

I think the bolt is reciprocating properly because it locks open on the last round with every magazine I have. I think it isn't extracting and ejecting the empty case to get it out of the way.

Bruce Scott · Post by **Bruce Scott** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 4:55 pm

There's been some discussion about extraction/ejection problems over on RimfireCentral.Com, here's one of the threads:

https://www.rimfirecentral.com/forums/s ... p?t=895746

Post #3 echos Blaine's advice above:

"I called Ruger, and they said that it definitely needs to be sent in, especially since it's a newer model. Apparently this isn't uncommon for the newer 22/45 Lites. They quoted me a 7-10 day turnaround time, and promised they'd take care of me. They were extremely helpful."

With this outcome at Post #12:

"Got my gun back from Ruger in about 6 business days. They replaced the entire bolt assembly, repaired the ejector, and test fired 180 rounds. I've put about 500 more through it since I got it back with zero malfunctions. I couldn't be happier with Ruger's customer service. I hate that I had to use it, but I'm glad they were so good. They said to change brands of ammo, but I guess that's a pretty standard statement from the techs. I told them I ran every brand I could get my hands on through it, and even the CCI Mini Mags and Standard Velocities were malfunctioning. It runs like a champ now though."

GunnyMack · Post by **GunnyMack** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 6:35 pm

If Ruger is swapping out complete bolt assemblies, makes me think they know of a problem with the 22/45 lite and they do the fix ASAP. Ya cant fault the turnaround times.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 6:48 pm

If you also notice, many of the posts mention the loaded chamber indicator. As I stated above, this is a lousy design and it causes issues. It basically rubs every cartridge going in and out of the chamber, putting pressure on the side.
Ruger will not dismantle it. You can. And it can be filled with an aftermarket piece for the hole.

Glenn · Post by **Glenn** » Thu Apr 15, 2021 10:24 pm

If Ruger will fix it gratis that's the way to go. On the MKI and MKII this problem is fixed by replacing the extractor with a Volquartsen extractor, and lightly dressing the tops of the magazine feed lips. What happens on a lot of mags is that the rim drags across the mag lips when extracting which knocks the case out of the grip of the extractor before it hits the ejector. Sorry I don't remember where I read this.
Glenn

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Tue Apr 20, 2021 8:17 pm

I took that loaded chamber indicator out and replaced it with a plug. I replaced the extractor with a Volquartsen.

Then I took it completely apart and I am replacing that magazine safety with a different hammer bushing to delete that function. While I am inside, I am replacing the sear and hammer as well. Waiting on parts, but I should be able to test everything this weekend.

I had a hell of a time getting that old loaded chamber indicator out. Magnet did not work on the pin and I used a dremel to cut through the plastic and give me a small groove to pry against.

Everything else comes in and out like it is supposed to.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Tue Apr 20, 2021 8:26 pm

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Tue Apr 20, 2021 8:17 pm I took that loaded chamber indicator out and replaced it with a plug. I replaced the extractor with a Volquartsen.

Then I took it completely apart and I am replacing that magazine safety with a different hammer bushing to delete that function. While I am inside, I am replacing the sear and hammer as well. Waiting on parts, but I should be able to test everything this weekend.

I had a hell of a time getting that old loaded chamber indicator out. Magnet did not work on the pin and I used a dremel to cut through the plastic and give me a small groove to pry against.

Everything else comes in and out like it is supposed to.

Yes. I dumped my magazine safety too.
So it wasn't just me with that cussed LCI pin? That thing was miserable.
I didn't have any malfunctions prior to my alterations, but I also barely shot it before making the changes.
I am hopeful you will see an improvement. I have been happy with mine and it's a good shooter.

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 9:24 am

And folks wonder why my Mark I target just keeps working. The answer is simple. The pistol is simple without a bunch of needless do dads.

Every generation since the has added stuff not needed on a pistol designed for target and small game work. It isn’t (here it comes) a combat handgun. It doesn’t need fast mag changes, bolt hold opening and loaded chamber indicators.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 10:13 am

While I agree the earlier pistols aren't hindered by useless safeties, and are of good quality. They are also too heavy for my taste in a 22 pistol.
That is why I used my old Smith 422 for so long. Also why I use a Colt Frontier Scout instead of a Single Six.
After my initial mods, the 22/45 Lite has been a good pistol. It can take a can and has a removable optic sight mount also.
It would have been perfect if the lawyers would have left it alone. But that's an old story these days.

piller · Post by **piller** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 10:38 am

There are uppers for the Mk II that make it a lot lighter. Unfortunately they cost a bit. Here is one.
https://tacticalsol.com/Detail.aspx?PRO ... &CAT=13325

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 5:40 pm

OldWin wrote: ↑Wed Apr 21, 2021 10:13 am While I agree the earlier pistols aren't hindered by useless safeties, and are of good quality. They are also too heavy for my taste in a 22 pistol.
That is why I used my old Smith 422 for so long. Also why I use a Colt Frontier Scout instead of a Single Six.

Agreed. I look at this gun as something that you carry because it is so handy and light that I don't want to leave it at home.

It also shoots very well, especially with CCI Mini Mag HPs.

I had a MKII Government Model. That gun was a real shooter. But it was pretty heavy to tote around when I carried anything else.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 6:01 pm

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Wed Apr 21, 2021 5:40 pm
OldWin wrote: ↑Wed Apr 21, 2021 10:13 am While I agree the earlier pistols aren't hindered by useless safeties, and are of good quality. They are also too heavy for my taste in a 22 pistol.
That is why I used my old Smith 422 for so long. Also why I use a Colt Frontier Scout instead of a Single Six.
Agreed. I look at this gun as something that you carry because it is so handy and light that I don't want to leave it at home.

It also shoots very well, especially with CCI Mini Mag HPs.

I had a MKII Government Model. That gun was a real shooter. But it was pretty heavy to tote around when I carried anything else.

Haha same here! I had one too. It shot well but I never had it with me unless at the range.
I may be remembering incorrectly, but I think the trigger is better on the 22/45 Lite.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 6:09 pm

The trigger isn't bad but there is a lot of unnecessary stuff going on in there that makes the trigger a bit spongey.

It will likely be even better when I install this:

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 6:16 pm

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Wed Apr 21, 2021 6:09 pm The trigger isn't bad but there is a lot of unnecessary stuff going on in there that makes the trigger a bit spongey.

It will likely be even better when I install this:

Yeah. I want to install that in mine too!
Getting rid of the mag safety helped a little.

Post by **AmBraCol** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 6:58 pm

This thread reminds me that someday I need to replace my first over the counter (after the Permit to Purchase went through) handgun purchase - a MkII Ruger. Although I'd rather replace it with the 5" bull barrel I wanted instead of the 6 7/8" tapered target I settled for because I didn't want to wait for the other one to be ordered.

A friend of mine installed a Clark trigger and a ??? front sight and slicked it right up. But I hated to see it rust in the humidity (this was long before I learned the simple solution I use today) and sold it down the figurative river and bought a stainless 38 spl instead. Never had an issue with disassembling and reassembling it like some folks complain of. Haven't played with the MkIII or MkIV any at all and have only shot one 22/45 but never messed around with it any other than that. Ruger came up with quite a solid platform from the start.

piller · Post by **piller** » Wed Apr 21, 2021 7:05 pm

Even though they are heavier than most, the Ruger Mark I through Mark IV are accurate. My Mk II has taught several kids to shoot handguns.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Thu Apr 22, 2021 6:17 pm

I replaced the innards and in about an hour I had probably the best trigger I’ve ever handled on a .22. Probably two pounds and it breaks very crisply

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Fri Apr 23, 2021 7:08 am

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Thu Apr 22, 2021 6:17 pm I replaced the innards and in about an hour I had probably the best trigger I’ve ever handled on a .22. Probably two pounds and it breaks very crisply

Sounds good!
Like many modern guns, it requires a "lawyer exorcism" to reach it's full potential.
She should sing like a bird now. I've been happy with mine and find it a good shooter. Good enough that it can accurately wring out most of the 22LRs effective range.

Tycer · Post by **Tycer** » Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:11 am

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Thu Apr 22, 2021 6:17 pm I replaced the innards and in about an hour I had probably the best trigger I’ve ever handled on a .22. Probably two pounds and it breaks very crisply

Well you just made Midway a few bucks from my pocket

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:50 am

Tycer wrote: ↑Fri Apr 23, 2021 8:11 am Well you just made Midway a few bucks from my pocket

I'll test it this weekend and bring back a report. Yeah, Midway got some of my pocket money this week too.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Sat Apr 24, 2021 10:29 am

193 rounds with one malfunction (it was ammunition related).

I’m quite satisfied.

piller · Post by **piller** » Sat Apr 24, 2021 10:40 am

Not too bad.

Post by **AmBraCol** » Sat Apr 24, 2021 11:21 am

Scott Tschirhart wrote: ↑Sat Apr 24, 2021 10:29 am 193 rounds with one malfunction (it was ammunition related).

I’m quite satisfied.

I love it when a plan comes together.

OldWin · Post by **OldWin** » Sat Apr 24, 2021 2:12 pm

Sounds like you got it! Glad she's up and running.
Those LCI's are an instrument of the devil (lawyers).

jeepnik · Post by **jeepnik** » Sat Apr 24, 2021 5:48 pm

Proving once again that instead of improving the Ruger MK's with all the useless do dads they've simply made them failure prone.

Scott Tschirhart · Post by **Scott Tschirhart** » Sun Apr 25, 2021 7:05 pm

jeepnik wrote: ↑Sat Apr 24, 2021 5:48 pm Proving once again that instead of improving the Ruger MK's with all the useless do dads they've simply made them failure prone.

I think that is right. The only reliability work I did was to replace the loaded cartridge indicator and the extractor. But I can find nothing wrong with the extractor that I took out. It goes into the spares box.

So, I am thinking that the loaded cartridge indicator was putting some resistance on the empty that was being extracted and it was enough to gum up the works.