MLE bolt won't close

[Woftam]

Finally got the chance to spend some time with the MLE. After a bit of fiddling we managed to strip the furniture off it and then put the trigger guard back on, with a spacer at the front screw.
Problem is definitely the sear. Looks like it has lost a little length on the upper arm. Ergo the cocking piece is not being pushed far enough back and when you try to turn the bolt handle down (to complete the cocking of the bolt) the small stud on the underside of the cocking piece fouls the stud that separates the grooves on the rear of the bolt body. Does that make sense ? I'll post photos when I get a chance to explain it.
Now for our next problem. A new brass case won't fit in the chamber.
I'm assuming, because the barrel is indexed about 10 degrees past vertical, it was a home gunsmith job to rechamber to 7.7 x 54 (I think that's what they called it).
I've suggested a chamber cast to confirm - does the barrel need to be off for that ?

[awo425]

You do not have to remove the barrel for a chamber cast, just plug it with a cleaning felt or something just in front of the forcing cone and fix the rifle, muzzle down, vertical.
Than fill in the molten cerosafe and let it cool, then push it out with a rod.

[Woftam]

Thanks for that, just what I needed to know.
Don't think Cerrosafe is available in Australia so that may be an issue. I'll have to look at alternatives.

[Aughnanure]

Graeme,

That could definitely be the case and as I said earlier any force could shear off the stud.

If it was rechambered for 7.7x54 then a new case ought to protrude 2mm from the chamber. I have some once fired 7.7x54 so could post a couple to you if you PM me your address, I've got two 7.7 rifles by the late and great Jack Pollard.

Eoin.

[awo425]

You can use sulfur, but that ist not that easy to handle, ignites easyly and stinks than
For getting the rough idea, wax should do, but lube the chamber, teflon oil might be good for that.
Also the stuff den dentist use to get the casting from the teeth may be worth a try.

[Woftam]

Thanks for the ideas awo425. I think I'll steer clear of the sulphur. I was actually thinking of getting some plaster and giving that a go, after oiling the chamber, but I might ask around a bit first.

Eoin, maaaaate, a case or two would be great. With the new .303 cases the protrusion is about 4mm.
I was pretty sure the difference was only a couple of mm, so that's my reason for wanting a chamber cast.
Would be easier for you to post the cases direct if you're willing as my mate lives in Glen Innes.
Let me know when you've read this and I'll PM you his details if you're agreeable.

[Aughnanure]

Graeme,

It closes now Being a real cheapskate I figured that it was cheaper to drive the Matiz out to your mates place and give him the 7.7 x 54 ctgs. Of course I had to see if they fitted and they do, bit tight but then they are once fired. Nice rifle

[dhtaxi]

Well done Sir thats what this little comunity is all about.
Sharing knowledge helping each other out learning from each other.
A old girl barking back into life. Well done.

[Woftam]

Eoin,
Yes it is a nice rifle, especially for the price .
Thanks for going around. It always help to have a bit of expert guidance. At least we have now confirmed the calibre, just got to get the barrel sorted. Did he bring out the other toys to show off ?

[Aughnanure]

Drool