Winchester 94AE broken

[DGoodale]

I have a Win94AE that stopped working. The lever would no longer open the action. I finally got around to looking into the issue tonight. The floorplate (I think this is called the link) was not releasing the locking lug for the bolt to slide rearward. Looks like the "ears" that hold the lug broke. Where can I get parts for this? Does someone make an improved part? Anything I can do to smooth out the action since it's disassembled?
Thx,
Dave

ETA: Are these specific to caliber? MidWest has them listed by caliber, mine's a .357. Of course mine is the most expensive.

[kendog4570]

Yes links are caliber specific. It is designed around the smaller diameter and shorter 357 case. Notice the little stamped piece screwed to the finger lever? That is 357 specific also. If MGW has the part in stock grab it. $80 is a drop in the bucket compared to rebuilding yours. I have sent them to MGW in the past for welding and re-machining the other end of that link that serves as a cartridge stop/magazine cutoff, as they are specific to 357, common to wear or break (because the lug sticks out farther to work with the smaller diameter case), and hard to find new, serviceable replacement ones. Never heard of one breaking like yours, though.
The 94 357 actions are more trouble prone compared to the others. It is a rifle cartridge length receiver and modifying it to run pistol rounds has always led to problems. The 73 and 92 actions are better suited to revolver rounds.

[DGoodale]

Thanks, I'll give MGW the $$. I see links on eBay, obviously used, but I'm hesitant. I've had this nearly 30 years and probably put less than 100 rounds through it so I'm somewhat disappointed. Looking at the design, I'll just have to be careful no to over extend the lever on opening or not being rough on it when opening at the point the link is disengaging on the locking lug.
Any tips on smoothing the action or trigger?