The ram on my porta nailer is not returning

First thing to check is ensure there is not a jammed cleat in the nose or magazine preventing the nails from advancing all the way forward.
If that is not the problem, most likely you have a broken driver blade (Part #33 on the breakdown)
https://www.qepparts.com/porta-nails-401-hardwood-floor-nailer-parts.html#3317_1

their is products in the stores that dose just the thing : )

Likely a nail jammed in the chute. The front of the nailer opens so you can pull the jammed nail out.

Hello tcw. Right now you can get a new one at amazon.com for about $277. here is the link http://www.amazon.com/Porta-Nailer-403-Hardwood-Flooring-Nailer/dp/B00030MM6C

Joe

sometimes the ram breaks off in the center and it's pushed down but has to be pushed up to fire the second time. see if the ram will pull out it should not. be careful unload the gun first.
or the return spring has malfunctioned.

oil it real good

More likely an O-ring. When they spring a leak, you buy a kit that contains all the gaskets and O-rings and replace them all. An easy job. Hope this helps.

www.portanail.com

if you can push the ram back with your finger , then may be your return o ring is damaged, if you cant push it back with your finger then you might have a nail jam

any word on type of nailer?