Is there a thread on when to replace various parts?
I have replaced a couple of parts over the years- mainly cheap extractors that broke, replaced by BCM, and I always keep a supply of some various parts on hand. (to include a bolt, another complete BCG, extractors, gas rings, cam pin, all the retaining pins and firing pins.) But, I have seen a couple of things in threads recently that got me thinking.
A couple of my ARs have over 5k rounds. I have never done anything but clean and inspect. I am planning on going though them all and making sure they have BCM upgraded extractors and replacing the gas rings. I’m also going to start keeping a more accurate record of what has been done-shooting and maintainance, so I’m not at this “wondering point” again. Is there anything else I should consider replacing? Someone mentioned the ejector & buffer spring in another thread.
I have looked through all the posted threads and can’t find any ideas.
Buffer springs are measured and that’s how you determine when to replace them. The acceptable measurements have been posted numerous times here.
When I check extractor and ejector springs my rule is that if they start to feel “mushy” then I repalce them. I have a bolt that is running the original extractor spring and it has about 10k rounds on it.
Gas rings can be tested and that method is also outlined several times here.
I am a believer in the CS or chrome silicon springs like David Tubbs flatwire springs for the buffer and they are also available for the extractor and ejector, think I goot them through Brownells’. They have a cycle life of 500,000 motions, so how’s that for a do it and forget it upgrade.
Colt currently makes the best extractor spring. I get mine from SAW(specialized armament warehouse). They are cheaper than brownells and shipping is to.