Diana 35 (old), Changing the Barrel.

[airnutz]

Hello folks!
On an Auction site here in Germany,  I see an offer of two Barrels (.177) for the old Diana 35.  I contacted the seller, and he says they are both 16mm OD.  Mine is 15mm OD.  No sites or seals are offered, but that's OK.  No problem. 

Will the newer (larger) diameter Barrel fit?

Anyone?

Thanks in advance.

[RedFeather]

Best to ask that one on the American Vintage forum.  Some older Diana experts there who can probably answer it.  If the breech block or compression tube changed between very early and later models, the geometry might not be right and it won't lock up squarely, be aligned or might not cock.  I once asked if some of the breech blocks were compatible between certain models and told that they are model-specific.

Here's the link -

http://www.network54.com/Forum/405945/

[airnutz]

Hello RedFeather!

Sir, once again you have shown me and guided me and informed me of things that I was otherwise unaware.  My deepest thanks and gratitude, and a wonderful greeting to you.

Your link recommendations have proven again to be a treasure chest of valuable info.

I am so pleased to have come across this website, and all of this with such a  nice attitude and respect in the various topics.

Cheers!

[airnutz]

I think with this topic question I should better contact Diana-Werk directly, as it seems to be difficult.

I do not want to get beyond my capabilities.

I would on my part suggest the Mods delete this Topic if you so choose.

Greetings.

[RedFeather]

When you contact them have plenty of photos.  Those are the best way to let them actually see what you have.  It may take a while for them to locate Hans, the last guy left who worked on those, LOL!  Don't be surprised if they can't ID the older version.  Often happens after fifty or sixty years.

[airnutz]

Hello RedFeather!

I contacted the Diana Factory again, the guy remembered my inquiry about the barrel and said he checked around with some old timers there and cannot give me any further info.

In the meantime, I have ordered new washers/spacers (one is mounted right side, two on the left) for fitting the barrel properly.  All useless!  With your tips about the links, I have found out the gun is older than 1954,  possibly from the 30's.  At least the barrel is a real old one, and no washers/spacers were used on them.

This project has proven thus far to be more interesting than I had hoped. Good stuff for sure is coming out in the open.

Thanks, and best regards,

Robert