S&W Revolver - How does crane come out?

[dmftoy1]

I was cleaning my Model 500 and the crane and cylinder assembly moved "forward" somehow. I can't for the life of me figure out how to put them back. If I move them forward carefully the entire crane and cylinder will come out of the frame. Are they designed to do this? Is there some secret handshake to make it happen? I've had quite a few S&W revolvers and never had this happen.

Any and all advice is greatly appreciated.

Have a good one,
Dave

 

[dmftoy1]

Nevermind . ..i figured it out! (gotta love the search feature)

I still have no clue how it came loose as I've never touched that sideplate screw.

Have a goodone,
Dave

 

[yesterdaysyouth]

I still have no clue how it came loose as I've never touched that sideplate screw.

it shot loose, some blue loctite will take care of that...

 

[Standing Wolf]

The bigger the hammer, the sooner you'll get the gun apart.