Gunsmithing Para Ordinace frame repair

[Xshot]

I have a Para Ordinance .45 ACP F-series aluminum frame kit. It's the original kit from the late eighties that allowed 1911's to be upgraded to 14 round capacity. The safety plunger tube has some wear and hairline fractures on the end of the tube nearest the thumb safety. The safety still functions flawlessly and I not to concerned about a failure.

Eventually I'll try my hand at giving this pistol a custom paint job. So I was thinking of putting a skim coat of Devcon epoxy over the tub to fill in the cracks and strengthen it. I'll have to carefully re-profile it before painting. Anyone have a better solution?

 

[oldolds442]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

tig weld, then paint would be the best way..

 

[Xshot]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

I would agree, but I don't tig weld and don't know anyone that does.

 

[RMPSTRAT]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

tig welding will make that area around real soft

 

[dmg308]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

Is it the tube itself that is cracked? If yes just replace the tube.

 

[Xshot]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

Yes it the tube that is cracking - at the end nearest the thumb safety. Unlike Colt 1911 the tube is not a separate part.

 

[buffybuster]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

Have it milled off, then drill the holes and install a standard plunger tube.

 

[Xshot]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

buffybuster - that's a thought. I'll have to check around and find a capable smith that can do the work.

 

[cvedrick]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

Have you tried to call Para? I have no clue what their warranty is, but it never hurts to try.

 

[Hellbender]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

As buffybuster said, that is the best way.

I have one that I am gonna do the same thing with.

 

[Xshot]

Re: Para Ordinace frame repair

I checked their website and it doesn't appear they offer the high capacity kit anymore. I suppose a call would be in order, even though I did the conversion more than 20 years ago.