Screw specs for US M1840 lock

[fourbore]

I am attempting to re-convert a US 1840 musket from percussion back to flint. The gun has been shortened 6" and I plan to leave it short. I never did this before, but; I am going to learn or go down in flames trying. I am stripping the lock and in trouble already. The Bridle screw broke of years ago and frozen in place. I drilled it out and been picking out the remnants. I like to clean out the hole with a tap. My question is: "What are all these odd thread sizes?".

I am measuring 10-26 on these smaller screws. I found a British tap was available in 3/16-26. I have that on order. Can anyone tell me the official spec on this screw.

I anticipate similar problems removing the two Frizzen screws and same question there. The larger screws appear to be 1/4-25 ! Really, can that be right?

I have more questions. Will this be a good forum for that or can anyone point towards another? I appreciate any reply on screws or project in general.

 

[RicM]

Try this site. I was in need of a "Link Bolt" for an Model 1842 Austin Johnson Percussion Cap Muzzle loaded Pistol. Searched high and low found it here and they seem to have a bunch of parts for other old rifles etc. they are very fast on their turn-around shipping. Worth a shot to check.
https://www.lodgewood.com/

 

[fourbore]

Thank you Ric, I will do that.

I found 1/4-25 taps at Brownell. That seems to be right and its a start.

Nothing yet on 10-26 taps.

 

[RicM]

You welcome hope you find the parts. Also try Track the Wolf

https://www.trackofthewolf.com/List/Category.aspx/632
And also try S&S Firearms. He is located in Queens, NY. I’ve been down there for repair of my 1863 rifle. I live about 2 hrs north of Queens, NYC, it was worth the drive I was overwhelmed on all the stuff he had. The guy has been there geez like from the dawn of time main floor basement and attic loaded with parts!! The place is loaded with old musket and cap rifle and pistol parts. Problem is he does reenactment so he doesn’t always pick up and he’s not always open everyday. Nice guy too, one man operation shop.

https://www.ssfirearms.com/

 

[hawkeye2]

Lodgewood has some original screws and other parts you might be able to use.

https://www.lodgewood.com/Parts_c_14.html

The owner of S&S passed away just a few weeks ago and they are not accepting orders at this time. I remember seeing taps & dies available for original US muskets but just not where. I was thinking Lodgewood but don't see them on their site.

 

[RicM]

Holy manure!!! I feel so bad!! I was there just about 2-3 months ago. His mom was working the phones. So sad, he seemed such a nice guy. May he Rest In Peace

 

[fourbore]

Oh my, that is bad news. Very sorry.

 

[fourbore]

I now have enough material in hand to conclude, with reasonably confidence, all the lock screws are 25 tpi !

 

[fourbore]

I placed an order with S&S. I wont say business as usual, but; they are back online and taking calls.

I did not push for any advise or technical info. That was out of respect for the loss mentioned in post 5.