(Resolved) How do I remove a stuck ejector from Savage Bolt

[r1ghtw1ng]

Update: Issue resolved by Savage Warranty Dept.

Original post:

I just picked up a Savage Axis 308 with a stuck ejector (this was a known/disclosed issue).

I disassembled the bolt and drove the ejector retaining pin out. According to disassembly videos, once the retaining pin was removed, the ejector spring was supposed to fling the ejector out, but it is stuck good and tight. I used some oil, tried tapping on the tip of the ejector, tried prying the edges with with a dental pick, but no movement. I even tried to go in through the retaining pin hole with the pick, but I'm flying blind there.

I'd appreciate any suggestions on how to free the stuck ejector. Thanks in advance.
I'm not too proud or cheap to take it to a gunsmith if there is one in the area. I'd just like to give it a try on my own first.

Here's a picture of the bolt face and of the component pieces.

[r1ghtw1ng]

Another thought, how is Savage's warranty department with these types of issues? Can I just send the bolt head to them?

[swifty]

Put a drop of solvent on the ejector. Use a punch and small hammer, lightly tap the ejector repeatedly. You just want to lightly tap.

[r1ghtw1ng]

I let the bolt head soak all morning in some Hoppes, wiped it down and gave it some light, then medium taps. No movement, that thing is stuck good and tight.

Any other suggestions? I'll probably give Savage a call next week if nothing else works out.

[kcstott]

Parts are cheep buddy. You can order a new bolt head and all the parts for less then $50.

I've got one in .338 Lapua

[swifty]

Just light taps, it may take a while. You want the solvent to seep in and the taps to slightly move the parts. The spring will apply pressure from the other end, too hard of hits may collapse the spring.

[poller]

[not a gunsmith, but have experience in these issues w/ race cars]

Apply heat to the problem. The outer is much smaller mass - and thinner - and will absorb more heat than the inner. The heat should cause the outer to expand.

Throw it in the oven at 300F for a few minutes.

Do NOT apply a torch to it - that could kill any heat treat.

[Jn316]

Kroil
Let soak overnite
Apply heat as above post

[kcstott]

Just be very carful when applying heat. Those are your locking lugs. and if over heated may become soft and set back upon first shot. Or worse yet to hard and crack

[r1ghtw1ng]

Thanks, everyone for the suggestions.

Parts are cheep buddy. You can order a new bolt head and all the parts for less then $50.

Appreciate the heads up. 308 bolt head for $26 on midway... replacement ejector/extractor small parts are another $15. This may be the cheaper/quicker route. I did find some one who replaced their bolt head who had headspacing issues due to the new bolt head being longer than the original (LINK). I don't want to open a new can of worms.

I'll call Savage next week and see what they say.

[ar15barrels]

I also bought a savage with the stuck ejector disclosed.
I never could get it out and I have a machine shop...
The little bugger would spin when trying to drill/tap it so I could pull it out, but it won't actually come out!
I replaced the bolt head and re-set the headspace.

[kcstott]

Resetting headspace on a savage is about the easiest thing to do so long as you don't have any sights to deal with on the barrel.


Loosen the barrel nut, screw barrel in, tighten barrel nut, check headspace.

[r1ghtw1ng]

Looks like a resetting the headspace on a new bolt is pretty straightforward. It looks like for this exercise, I'll need a barrel vise, barrel wrench, go / no-go gauges. Sound about right?

[ar15barrels]

Looks like a resetting the headspace on a new bolt is pretty straightforward. It looks like for this exercise, I'll need a barrel vise, barrel wrench, go / no-go gauges. Sound about right?

Yes.

[joelogic]

Here is my broken one and replacement. I think I used magnet to it out.