PM40 trigger problem

[DRJ]

Hi all, I just picked up a used PM40 with a trigger problem. At first it had maybe a 15 to 18 pound pull after take up. I took it down and the trigger lever spring had been digging into the channel in the frame. I cleaned all the plastic out and smoothed out the channel and put some bend in the end of the spring now it still breaks at 12 pounds on my gauge. (Before it was heavier than my gauge would read) I can see no other problems and I’m at a loss. Anyone with any ideas? Thanks

[berettabone]

It sounds like it either came loose somehow, or someone was fooling with it. Just for giggles I would either talk to someone at the factory, or get a new spring or both. If your not inclined to change it yourself, sounds like a trip to your local gunsmith.

[DRJ]

I did talk with the factory and they had no idea. They said they would be happy to look at it. I would have no problem changing the spring but I’m not sure it’s the problem.

[gb6491]

How's the trigger with the slide removed?

If it's good that way, my first thought would be to check the striker spring.

[DRJ]

Thanks I will check the striker spring. What should I be looking for?

[gb6491]

I think if it's causing the problem you describe, it is likely broken.
In any case, give the striker parts a good cleaning (to include the tunnel in the slide). No lube upon reassembly.
Regards,
Greg

[DRJ]

Thanks, I will check the striker tomorrow.

[DRJ]

OK I disassembled the slide and everything looked good. I gave it a good cleaning and reassembled and no change. Is it possible the previous owner added a heavier or wrong striker spring? I’m thinking that I should order the Galloway springs and guide and give that a try. So anyone have any other opinions? Thanks

[gb6491]

OK I disassembled the slide and everything looked good. I gave it a good cleaning and reassembled and no change. Is it possible the previous owner added a heavier or wrong striker spring? I’m thinking that I should order the Galloway springs and guide and give that a try. So anyone have any other opinions? Thanks

I suppose it's possible, but I've not seen a heaver striker spring available anywhere. FWIW, I can push my P40's striker back pretty easily using my thumbnail.

How was the trigger with the slide off?

To jump ahead a bit, I'm going to assume that the trigger was fine with the slide off. Check the bottom of the slide for any shiny spots that might indicate that the lobe on the cocking cam that lifts the striker block is hitting the slide. Also check the wear marks on the striker block. On my P40, the striker block doesn't have any definitive signs of wear until about it's mid point. I think any wear ahead of the might give me cause to suspect the lobe is too tall.


Regards,
Greg

[DRJ]

The trigger is fine with the slide off and everything looks fine on the striker block and no rub marks on the slide. The striker spring is very stiff and some pressure to move back. I ordered the Galloway kit because I’m beginning to think it’s the striker spring.

[eligius]

Please take lots of pictures when installing the Galloway kit. Will help the other guy down the road . Thanks.

[DRJ]

Ok now I’m really confused. I disassembled the slide again and again no problems found. I checked the frame internals again and again no problems found. Now the trigger pull is where it should be with a mag inserted but back up to 12#+ without the mag in. I have no idea what’s going on but the trigger is fine now with a mag in the gun. I will still try the Galloway springs when they arrive. But hey I got it cheap because of the trigger problem. 😀