Delta Elite Firing Problem

[MCMIX]

Delta Elite Firing Problem

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I just picked up a Delta Elite 10mm today. The previous owner(7 days) said it would not fire. The primer was barely touched when attempting to fire. I took it apart and found the firing pin bent. I tried to remove the extractor, but it was a pain to get out. I am pretty sure the bent firing pin would cause the no fire, but the extractor looks bent also. I don't remember having any difficulty removing the extractor on my other Colt 1911's. Please look at the pictures and give your valued opinions.http://www.fototime.com/inv/56012D5344FFEB4

[cajunfj40]

I am sure that the extractor is ok. You need a certain amount of tension to extract. Most Colts come with almost no tension. Not good for the most reliable operations. Tuner may come along shortly and tell you more but to much tension is as bad as not enough.

Replace the firing pin make sure there are no other areas that need attention..such as inside the firingpin tunnel. See if that works, if it does enjoy your Delta.

[John]

The extractor needs to be somewhat bend to put pressure on the rim of the cartridge for proper extraction. If memory serves me right, the Delta Elite is a Series 80 pistol, so after you replace your firing pin, do the pencil test to ensure that your S80 mechanism is fully functional.

With the pistol empty, insert a pencil with a rubber eraser at the rear end inside your barrel, eraser first. Point your pistol up and fire the pistol. The pencil should jump straight up with authority, about 3-5 feet. If it doesn't then check your Series 80 levers.

[1911Tuner]

The extrctor is supposed to be "bent." That's what places tension on the case,

John nailed it. The plunger lever isn't lifting the plunger high enough to disengage from the firing pin. Timing problem. You've likely got a damaged plunger, too. The fix is to heat and bend the plunger lever to lift the plunger earlier and higher...or order a #2 lever from Colt. If you're lucky, they might even send it.

[1trp45]

Try brownells they will sell you a Cylinder & Slide Colt Series 80 kit that is titanium coated to reduce friction. It includes all the series 80 parts. If the plunger was hard to remove their might be too much extractor tension. You might want to order another extractor. I picked up a Delta Elite yesterday and its in great condition except for the fact that it has a plastic and was possibly missing an extra recoil spring.