MP5 Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 Just found an old, original L drum in a box in the back of my closet; I knew I had one but it's been decades since I had seen it! Is there any difference between winding them 9 or 11 clicks? Why 9 or 11, and not 10? Do these require any lubrication after sitting untouched (very dry climate here) for 25 years? I was thinking maybe a tiny drop of oil or BreakFree CLP on that center inner rotating shaft?? And lastly, what are these things worth today? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ryo Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 For the rotational center part people grease the internals. I'm talking filled in with grease from a grease gun. I would go to machinegunboard to get more information on greasing drums. They have a great Thompson section.. with experts. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DINK Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 The model 1921 has a higher cyclic rate than the 1928 and the drum apparently needed a little more "oomph" in feeding rounds to keep up with it, so it was recommended to wind to 11 clicks for the 1921 and 9 clicks for the 1928. Original drums can range from around $500 to over $1,000, depending on rarity and condition. I will second the suggestion to check out the Thompson board at machinegunbooks.com. Those guys are Thompson fanatics and the level of knowledge there is astounding. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
3rdmardiv Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 A special fitting was made to lube drums. I had one, sold it, but they work great if you can find. http://www.machinegunboards.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=10566 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ryo Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 Yup that's the lubing jig. I can make them if someone really needs one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MP5 Posted January 19, 2022 Author Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 41 minutes ago, Ryo said: Yup that's the lubing jig. I can make them if someone really needs one. How much would it cost if you made one for me? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ryo Posted January 19, 2022 Report Share Posted January 19, 2022 It would be definitely less than $75 (that was the price listed from the link) I'll have to look to see if I still have parts lying around. I had bought more than I needed but I think I need to buy a cap. I've been planning on designing a better one, but haven't had a chance to look. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jetstreamer Posted March 9, 2022 Report Share Posted March 9, 2022 (edited) Please submit some photos and I’ll give you a rough idea on value… Depending on style, they can be worth several thousand… Edited March 9, 2022 by Jetstreamer Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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