Top Rail Screw Bushing Broke Free *PICS*

[Medic218]

At the suggestion of a couple members on here I decided to loc-tite the three screws on the top rail that sits on the upper receiver.
In doing so and being curious I completely removed the rail to see how it was all put together.
When I was putting everything back together the bushing type female part that the screw goes into broke free from its hole in the receiver and now it just free spins in the hole and I can't tighten the rail down on top of the receiver.
I also noticed that a small hexagon washer popped off from inside that really looked like it was never more than either painted on or loc-tight'ed on.
Needless to say I can't get the washer back in place now.
The rail sits almost where is should but I can flex it by hand just a little bit downward to where it truly should sit and the screw is no longer flush with the rail.
I think it might be functional...it just looks like crap.




In the above two pics you can see the underside of the receiver where the holes are drilled. You can also see where the little washer is supposed to be.


The screw where it is currently sitting.


The washer.

[MoJo]

I gotta say this, "If it ain't broke don't fix it."

From what I see it looks like the washer thingy is what gives you enough distance on the nut to fully tighten the assembly. Can you take some sharper pictures? the green locktite is for use after assembly and works very well for locktiting something you can't or don't want to take apart. You can find it in most auto supply stores.

I would try putting the nut into the washer and then seeing if you can get it started and tightened. If all else fails take it to a professional.

eta: I see a slight shoulder in the hex hole. Maybe there is a taper and the washer will only go in one way. How are the other screws installed? Also who made your receiver? They may be able to help. I know how frustrating something like this can be. Take your time and don't foul it up permanently.

[The Annoyed Man]

What is the gun?

[Medic218]

Its a factory Sig556.
As far as I can tell the little bushing type piece is inserted from the top and the washer is somehow attached from the bottom.
There are three screws on the rail, one on each end and one in the middle. The only one I have an issue with is the most rear screw near the butt. That being said I don't know that optic mounting would be negatively affected.
I cant take it back off since I've put loc-tite on the other two. I could, I suppose, but I'm a little cautious that if I torch the other screws enough to break the loc-tite I might end up breaking the other bushing type pieces since thats how it was broken loose to begin with. Then I'd be up the creek so to speak.

[MoJo]

call SIG

[Medic218]

Thanks for the tips but I don't have any punches or a soldering iron.
Its going back to Sig tomorrow and I'll just let them handle it.

[Medic218]

For anyone interested. Sig is replacing the receiver.
Hopefully it'll be good as new.