CW45: New recoil spring

[Verbalkint99]

So I ordered a new recoil spring for my CW45 and it arrived today. I immediately noticed that dispite having the same number of coils the new one was about 25% longer. At first I thought it was due to the wear on the old one. However, I cant for the life of me get the new one to go in. Its just to long. I double checked the packing slip and it does say they sent me the right one.

Is this normal, and anyone have any install tips?

[muggsy]

If it is in fact the correct spring it's longer because your old spring took a set from being compressed. The first install is always the hardest. I had the same problem with my P380 when I first replaced the recoil spring. It's normal.

[leftysixty]

When I replaced the recoil spring on my CW40 I found a punch about the same diameter as the guide rod, Inserted the punch into the spring, from the front through the guide rod hole.

What a PITA, you need 3 hands (I use a padded vice). The punch will keep the spring from doubling over, and will push out as you seat the guide rod.

I managed to ruin my first replacement spring, before I discovered the punch trick

I'll bet that Kahr has a special tool that they use for this

If I can do it anyone can

Always buy at least 2 recoil springs

[100percent]

After you put in, wait a few minutes. Take it back out and compare. The new will be only a half turn longer than the old one.