I would like to ask a question. On which part is the open end of the recoil spring, the guide rod or the plug? The open end should be on the plug end, and the closed end should fit over the guide rod.
Is that a Series 70 style "collet" bushing in the lower left of the first picture? Above the slide and below the barrel.
Could that be part of your problem?
Could that be part of your problem?