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The lever on my 1873 Winchester will not stay up. What is the cause and how can I fix the problem? Thanks Al
May 2, 2009
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On the left side of the lever there is a cam that the spring rides on that keeps the lever up. The cam can be worn and the spring can be worn or broke.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Thank you. I looked at the spring and it is worn so I will replace it. If the cam part of the lever and if so does the entire lever have to be replaced? Thanks so much for your help. Al 
May 2, 2009
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Al,
You can replace the cam but you would need a machinist to make you a new cam. I have made them before using a lath, jewelers saw and files. If your lever has nice original finish you might be able to buy a lever with a good cam and transfer it. I know they made them different thickness through the years so its not a guaranty it will fit right. Here is what they look like removed.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Thank You Bob. You have been a Great Help. I see now how the cam fits as I originally thought the cam was part of the lever itself. Thanks Again. Al.
Hi Bob: It is me again. I found a lever cam and spring for the 1873 at Homestead Parts. Hopefully they will restore the action. Thanks Again. Al
March 15, 2020
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I made a cam from a half moon key that is used to secure a pulley to an electric motor shaft. Some careful filing and am using it yet.
May 2, 2009
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I have made them on a lath in one piece.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
March 31, 2009
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Don, have you tried messing with the adjustment screw on the bottom of the receiver? Give it a try. I am assuming the screw is all the way in, back it out, go in and out and see if anything changes. These screws were never intended to be all the way in unless the parts were worn passed adjustment.
If any of you have the early Winchester catalogs they explain what I am talking about. I think the 1875 catalog is the last to mention the adjusting screws for the carrier and lever?
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