Ics Mp5 Sd3

[Azimuth]

Hey guys,
I'm the type of guy that field strips a weapon the day he gets it, puts all the parts in a bag, shakes it up, and has fun putting it back together, so when I stumbled upon an ICS MP5 SD3 for $130 that was not working, I was wondering if it was worth the investment.
From pictures, the unit looks clean, however, based on emails I have received, “the gun only operates on Safety or Full-Auto (no Semi-Auto) and the switch cannot move to the "S" position”
I was further told that the selector moves from "semi-auto", which is safety on this gun, to "full-auto" which is full-auto, but it won't move toward "safety". Moving to the "semi-auto" marking prevents the gun from firing.
The weapon also includes a low-profile ICS MP5 Scope Mount, Systema High-Speed Motor, M100 Upgrade Spring and Metal Bushings, and a reinforced mechbox and gears.
I am new to airsoft, just recently purchasing an M93R, but have built many other guns ranging from an M96 Mauser and a Kimber 1911 to a $2k 10/22 that's won me several trophies in the past, so a little work is fun, and besides, what better way to know a gun.
Has anyone come across similar issues? It almost sounds like someone botched installing an upgrade.
Are parts such as gears readily available, and do you think the gun is worth buying as a project?
Thanks for you feedback!

[david90]

That sounds like a great deal for a technically inclined person. Just from the information there, the problem with the gun sounds like a broken selector plate which can be easilsy found and bought for around $20. The installation is easy and you don't even have to go into the gearbox.
Good luck.

[Texx]

I recently bought a used AE SD6 (nearly identical) and can say that if it is indeed an indication of the ics sd series, $130 is a steal. Right now, I would have to say the best thing about the design is the takedown process. I will be posting a review within a few weeks so keep an eye out for it. :)

Airsoft Arms carries most replacement parts for the ICS MP5 line. Blazing Toys (found in the links/Retailer section) has one of the most complete lists of ICS parts I have been able to find. They also include freebies with every order! I believe between these two retailers you could easily replace any and all damaged or missing parts. BT offers the complete mechboxes as well.

I was initially skeptical about the ae/ics guns, but if Brian and Brad stand behind them, they must be a good gun.

Good luck.

[Azimuth]

Looks like you guys were right on the money!
Just got the gun today, and it was in great condition, but stripped it clean apart anyway. :D
Man, the technology and thought put into these things!!!
I ended up finding that the selector switch was stripped, and in turn the small square fitting in the selector plate it fits into was worn away as well.
Took your advice as to where to get the parts and ordered both parts today, so I should be in business shortly.

I did have a quick question about the gear box though....
It was dry when I opened it up, most likely due to the upgrade of reinforced gears and metallic bushings (that's what I was told)
Do I pack it with lube? If not how much?
Also, in regards to the spacers under the gears, I'm not sure if they were originally put in correctly, as everything was loose when I opened it up. Do I just make sure that there is no play, but the fit is not grindingly tight?
I'll post pictures shortly for anyone needing references as to where everything goes in the type 2 gear box once I know I got it together correctly.
Lastly, I noticed that the actual inner barrel does not extend into the mock silencer. Can you increase accuracy by extending it? Does it pay?

Thanks again everyone for all your help!

[PointMan]

longer barrel = bettter accuracy longer range:D