SKS trigger group reinstall

[MN Fan]

I took the SKS apart, cleaned it up and am in the middle of putting back together. I can't seem to get the trigger assembly latch to click back into place. I did some reading and tried the various suggestions, including giving it a whack with the palm of my hand. I don't think I want to try to hammer or clamp approach yet.

I have the safety on, hammer back and all the hinge pins in the proper place. It actually came apart real easy and I don't feel as if I should have to force it terribly hard. I don't want to bend anything, so thought I would take a break and post the question here.

Also, when its in my hands, it is possible to operate the hammer? I have the actuator rod depressed, safey off and pull the trigger, but the hammer remains cocked. I was prepared for it to slam forward, so I had my hand over it in case it did release.

Any suggestions?

[MN Fan]

I got the hammer to release, the sear was a bit tight. I got it apart and lubed up and now it works fine

I still have to get the assembly back in the stock though and will wait for replies and recommendations.

[MN Fan]

Nevermind

I noticed the receiver was coming out of the stock. Everything works just fine if the parts all are in the right place

[OLD OUTLAW]

It is always best to have the rifle flat on the floor when you push down.

You learn quickly though. Good job Cliff!

[howiebearse]

always make sure that the trigger group and magazine are indexing together also watch for the leg that catches the trigger group and holds it is in the right spot Its usually the magazine that messes it up if not having the safety off

[MN Fan]

Thanks guys. It was my first disassemble and reassemble of a SKS. Its actually a pretty impressive design how things come apart and go back together without requiring any tools. I try to figure things out on my own first before asking too many questions. I kept reading that you can bend things if you don't do it right which caused me to hesitate for a moment. I can't believe some suggested hammers and clamps!

Once I realized the receiver had been pushed out of the stock a bit, lowering the latch pin, I snapped it together in my hands with no effort.

Thanks for your input!