I took the cylinder off a hosed it down in the rod channel with brake cleaner. The screws were not in the wrong spot. Opens a bit easier now. I can use my trigger finger but it's not as easy as a k frame. But it appears to be working fine. It's been a while since I had a j frame so maybe they're just different.

As for removing the sideplate, I have done that to every used S&W revolver I have ever owned. Seen some nasty stuff in there over the years.

And yes, once the cylinder comes out of the frame, the crane moves very freely.