[jojo22]

Okay, I just purchased my first sks a few days ago. I got around to really checking it out today and I noticed a problem. The switch for the gas shut off that allows the grenade launcher to work will not pull back to the 12 o'clock position. I can get it to the 2 o'clock and the "center" or forward 12 o'clock but for the life of me it will not pull back. What could be the problem??

Thanks for any help. I have been reading on here all day and have already learned a lot.

[M14man]

Without having mine in front of me, That '12 O Clock rear position is for disassembly. You would have to have the gas tube off the gun first, and then by pressing the button in, it will move back and then the button comes out with spring. Then you can remove the gas piston for cleaning.Best to have a manual in front of you and follow the steps to a 'T'.

[jojo22]

I am speaking of the button near the front iron sight. I can move it after removing the gas piston but not with the gas piston installed. Don't I need to pull the button back in order to make the gas piston push the piston extension back to block the gases from cycling the weapon?

I apologize if I am not understanding you correctly but it seemed as if you where speaking of the switch that releases the piston extension and spring for cleaning purposes.

[M14man]

I am talking about the front button. When it is at 2'0 clock, normal firing and ejection will occur. When you want to cut it off, you use the 12 O'Clock position. That will also allow the grenade sights to be raised. The rear position is for dis-assembly. You must first remove the gas piston - handguard via the little lever on the side of the gun. Once that gas tube-handguard is removed, you should be able to depress the button and move that piston rearward. The button and spring can then come out.

Let me try to make things clearer. Normal operation is at 2'Oclock. Move the button to 12 Oclock to cut it off. Nothing else needs to be done. Now when you dis-assemble, you normally will move the lever near the rear sight to a position like 10 O'clock. This allows the gas tube to be lifted up and off where the long piston is then removed. The smaller piston-plunger can be carefully removed by moving that dismount lever higher. (Put your finger forcefully on it cause it will fly out!) Now going to the front button, you can bring it to 12 o'clock, then depress it and slide it back.

[jojo22]

Thanks. That makes things much clearer. I really appreciate the help and quick responses. I can already tell I'm gonna like this place a lot.