try to revive a 397. the "cam" part number 397-060 is missing there is just the cover. What does this part do and is it needed.
I also read that there is a spring and detent on the bolt handle and beware when removing bolt. I did not find this when removing the bolt. Just a allen head screw retaining the bolt.

That particular part, #397-060, has a little nub that protrudes inward and the bolt's allen screw not only cocks the gun, the allen scew head catches the face of the striker/hamer (#C601-B) when pulled rearward, said allen screw 'cams' in place of the little nub on part #397-060 when the bolt handle is rotated down to lock. The allen screw serves two purposes. When part #397-060 is missing, there is a bit of slop/play in the bolt from front to back. Try it. This means, when the gun is fired, the o-ring on the probe end (the end that pushes the pellet in the barrel) will allow air to balst out when fired.

Do you feel a puff of air upon the face or eye when shooting it without the part?

No, the spring and detent is in reference to older models.

"The majority of things in our lives are created by folks no smarter than the rest. Afterall, the world is comprised, and operated by C average people intellctually, academically, and morally. These people are often the great pioneers that set the precedent for what excellence should be."

Thank you, any idea of where to get the cam ?

That is how much I put out for the part about two years ago.

"The majority of things in our lives are created by folks no smarter than the rest. Afterall, the world is comprised, and operated by C average people intellctually, academically, and morally. These people are often the great pioneers that set the precedent for what excellence should be."

called crosman this am. they had most of the parts I needed.
any idea where to find new wood. My front handguard is starting to crack ?