Ithaca 37 problem

[glockbox]

I was lucky, or unlucky enough to buy a Ithaca model 37 20 gauge shotgun just before the company folded. Now I have a problem with the gun loading a shell from the mag tube to the chamber. i fire a shot then cycle the action, sometimes the fresh shell will jam between the two feed arms. I don't know what it is catching on to cause this problem. The gun works most of the time IF I cycle it real slow. Any ideas on what to do?

[John Traveler1]

glockbox,

Some pump-action shotguns commonly have this problem of a shell in the magazine overriding the cartridge stops and jamming the action.  It has to do with improper release of the next shell before the lifter is in position to catch the shell and bring it to be chambered.

If you examine the action, you will see an arm with lips that catch the rim of the next shell and prevent it from entering the cartridge lifter until the action is shucked.  Dirt, debris, or weak springs can prevent the stops from functioning.  So can worn or bent cartridge stops, or ammo with undersized rims (bad reloads).  Since your gun has had relatively little use, It probably needs a disassembly and thorough cleaning.  If the problem persists, I would replace the cartridge stops.

Let us know how it works out.

John