Had a heck of a time reassembling a 325

[duelist1954]

I had fits trying to get the side plate back on my N-Frame Smith after changing out the main spring and trigger return spring.

Never had a problem on my 1917.

Seems like the pins in the action didn't want to find their holes in the side plate.

Is there a trick I don't know?

 

[David E]

Make sure the hammer block is properly placed and gets into the side plate groove.

I presume you're starting at the top of the side plate, getting the tab into the recess

 

[duelist1954]

Yup...

Plate wouldn't drop in until I cocked the action...then dropped in fine. I screwed it down and everything seems to function fine.

 

[David E]

Sounds like the hammer block wasn't placed quite right until you cocked it.

Glad you got it done.

 

[rcmodel]

Next time, push the hammer block all the way up toward the top of the gun.
It will stop on the rebound slide pin that operates it when it gets where it goes.

The side-plate will then go right on over it and press in place easily.

If the hammer block is in any other position, it won't.

Be aware that cocking the hammer with the side-plate off can spring the pins if the mainspring strain screw is fully tightened.

Best not to do that!

rc

 

[shooting4life]

I lay the hammer block in place then set the grove in the side plate on the hammer block. Then slide the plate up the the correct position making sure the hammer block stays in the grove. Then tap the plate down and screw it tight.

 

[rcmodel]

You should be able to seat the side-plate by squeezing it on with your fingers.
Once it is nearly flush with the frame, finish it by tightening the screws.
No tapping involved.

Tapping is bad, as you can spring the side-plate rather easily if the safety block is in the way and holding it up.

rc