Maintenance Schedule

AR/M4 AR Technical Discussion
1

I have seen numerous mentions of a standard maintenance schedule here but have been unable to find anything specific. I tried both searching this forum and Google with no luck so would someone please break down this schedule for me, specifically what parts generally need to be replaced after X rounds and what to look for in those parts so I know when to replace them? I have seen some posts refering to parts that need replaced after just 3000rds and I’ll hit that with my new M4 by spring so I have some time but I might as well plan ahead.
Thanks.

2

Rancid,

There is nothing really set in stone as far as round count goes. There are specific tests and checks that can be performed. Such as;

  1. Firing pin protrusion
  2. Headspace
  3. Measured length of the buffer spring
  4. Gas ring check

The TM also has checks for bore erosion, the actual firing pin hole and barrel straightness but these gages are not readily available. My recommendation is to keep a round count and do an inspection when you clean your weapon. Look for any unusual wear. It’s also worth having a spare parts on hand. If you are pouring lots of lead through it then I suggest setting a comfortable number and then changing things like the extractor spring assy. and ejector spring.

3

Any tips on what to look for in unusual wear? This is my first AR so I don’t know what that would be. Also how many rounds until I should replace the springs?

Thanks for the reply.

4

Rancid,

As I stated there are no round particular round count numbers. Unusual wear would be excess wear of the metal.

5

Many shooters develop their own round count schedule. For example, Jeff Gonzales has posted his.

Here is our PMS for the M4, the key is to prevent problems from occurring. I use this to keep track of where things are and to guage the life of various replacement parts we use.

2,500 round interval,

* Inspect and replace as necessary extractor spring, insert and O-ring

5,000 round interval

* Replace extractor spring
* Replace extractor insert
* Replace Crane O'ring
* Replace gas rings
* Replace action spring

10,000 round interval

* Replace bolt

15,000 round interval

* Replace barrel
6

As stated, there are no published military inspections for serviceability based off round count, only inspections based off condition. This is where proper cleaning and inspection comes in.

Clean your weapon on a regular schedule, following the -10 operators manual as an inspection guide. If you are looking for more detailed inspection criteria, follow the -23&P.

Moderators or Site Staff, does M4C have the -10 and -23 hosted in .pdf format so that site members could be directed to them?

7

TM 9-1005-319-10-c3

TM 9-1005-319-23&p

8

5pins- Thanks for the links. Will print out at wife’s office for free!

9

Just an FYI. The 23&P is a little dated as the current one has Change 8. Also, there is no need to print it really. Just store it in the computer as a .pdf file.

If someone wants a current 23&P contact me.

10

IM sent! :slight_smile:

11

Iraqgunz, I see your back in the U.S. Welcome back.

I tried to host the change 8 that Iraqgunz sent me, but I have a 10mb limit on the files I can upload.

12

Email received. Thank you again Sir! I will definitely put the TM to good use. :slight_smile:

If there’s one thing Quib is noted for, it’s quoting and using the FMs and TMs as a reference in forum responses.

13

PM sent.