Follow these step-by-step instructions to install and adjust SliXprings finger lever and carrier lever springs in compatible 1860 Henry, 1866, and 1873 rifles and carbines. Proper installation can help provide smoother lever operation, controlled spring tension, and consistent action cycling.
SliXprings lever springs replace the factory finger lever and carrier lever springs used in compatible Uberti-style 1860 Henry, 1866, and 1873 rifles and carbines.
When correctly installed and adjusted, these performance springs can reduce excessive factory spring pressure while maintaining the controlled tension necessary for reliable lever and carrier operation.
Spring tension should be adjusted gradually. Excessive spring pressure can make the action unnecessarily difficult to operate, while insufficient pressure can prevent proper lever or carrier function.
These instructions apply to SliXprings lever springs designed for compatible 1860 Henry, 1866, and 1873 rifles and carbines.
Receiver dimensions, spring mounting locations, side plate clearance, and previous action work can vary between individual firearms. Minor fitting or spring-tab adjustment may therefore be necessary.
Remove only the minimum amount of material required. Check the fit and function frequently during installation, and do not continue if the required modification is unclear.
Point the firearm in a safe direction. Remove all ammunition, open the action, and visually and physically confirm that the chamber, magazine, and action are empty.
Remove all live ammunition from the work area before proceeding.
Remove the receiver side plates according to the firearm manufacturer's disassembly instructions.
Carefully remove the existing factory finger lever and carrier lever springs. Use a properly fitting screwdriver to avoid damaging the mounting screws.
Inspect both replacement springs for burrs, rough edges, shipping damage, or other irregularities.
Lightly polish burrs or rough areas on the spring ends only if necessary. Remove the minimum amount of material required and avoid changing the spring's intended shape.
Place the finger lever spring block over the correct mounting screw hole.
Position the spring so the radiused end faces downward and toward the front of the rifle.
Start the mounting screw without fully tightening it. Rotate the spring assembly until it is aligned parallel with the rifle's receiver.
Tighten the mounting screw gradually until the spring provides the desired amount of tension.
Confirm that the spring tab contacts the lever cam surface correctly.
Operate the lever slowly and confirm that it moves smoothly without scraping, catching, or binding.
Install the carrier lever spring using the same general procedure. Align it correctly with its mounting location and tighten the screw gradually.
Adjust the carrier lever spring to provide slight controlled tension. The carrier should remain at the top of its stroke when placed under normal operating load.
Temporarily position the side plates and check the clearance between the spring tabs and the inside surfaces of the plates.
Clearance should be minimal, but the spring must not contact or bind against the side plate during operation.
Adjust spring-tab length only if necessary. Remove material gradually and check the fit frequently.
Reinstall the side plates and all other components according to the firearm manufacturer's instructions.
Confirm that all screws, pins, and action components are properly positioned and securely installed.
Spring tension should be adjusted gradually. Small changes in screw tension can noticeably affect lever and carrier operation.
Adjustment tip: The preferred setting is the lightest spring tension that still provides consistent, controlled, and reliable lever and carrier operation.
Final adjustment may vary depending on receiver tolerances, previous action work, ammunition, and shooting style.
Keep the rifle completely unloaded during all function testing. Do not use live ammunition while checking the installation.
Stop immediately if the action binds, the carrier does not remain properly positioned, a spring moves out of alignment, or a spring contacts the side plate.
Check for excessive spring tension, incorrect spring orientation, side plate contact, improper spring-tab alignment, or interference with the lever cam.
Increase carrier lever spring tension slightly and test the action again. Make small adjustments rather than fully tightening the spring screw at once.
Confirm that the spring assembly is parallel with the receiver. Adjust spring-tab length only if alignment alone does not provide adequate clearance.
Confirm that the correct screw is being used and that the spring block is properly seated. Do not overtighten or use a damaged screw.
Check both lever springs for correct alignment and tension. Also inspect the action for interference, worn parts, previous modifications, or other conditions unrelated to the springs.
Proper installation, adjustment, and function testing are essential for safe firearm operation. SliXprings is not responsible for damage or injury resulting from improper installation, excessive modification, use in an incompatible firearm, or failure to follow applicable firearm safety procedures.
A printable version of the lever spring installation instructions is available in PDF format.
Open Lever Springs Installation Instructions PDF
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