This is a '72 piece in very good condition that I recently acquired. I took it out today for the first time with the 200 gr Remington factory load. At times, the carrier would get stuck behind the loading gate. A push with a screwdriver would allow the carrier to "pop" free and function fine. This happened with ~25% of the box of ammo fired. Before I tear it down and take a peak I thought I would ask here for some guidance.

I'm not a 336 pro by any means. But does the spring pressure on the loading gate seem weak ? Is the screw holding loading gate and spring the right length ? The guys on the Marlin talk forum would know.

Loading gate spring is firm. I need to join over there. Thanks.

tear it down & clean it up..........got a buffing wheel ?

buff/polish pivot points.......

'72...?...pull mag spring & follower...it'll be grubby........clean inner tube...reassemble...........

do not overtighten gate screw........

http://marauder.homestead.com/files/TUNING_M_1894.htm

http://www.ktgunsmith.com/marlinjam.htm

90 % of the time it's the gate screw. blue locktite is your friend.

Bingo.