What does the Trigger Play Spring actually do?

When looking from above and moving the trigger I see the spring in contact with the trigger however when trigger is pulled I think I see some, ~1mm, of separation of the spring from the surface of the trigger.

How would you know if it needed to be replaced?

Thanks,
Marty

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Who are? "They"

The trigger play spring keeps the trigger from flopping forwards and backwards when the hammer is cocked in single action.

Sometimes (especially during cleaning) the trigger play spring can become bent and not hold the trigger still.

If it is not too badly bent, you can push it forward towards the trigger hooks, (with something soft like a pencil eraser) and it will be good for a while.

If the spring is cracked or broken, it should be replaced, however a broken spring will not stop the operation of the pistol, it will just allow the trigger to flop around in single action.

John

Hello Marty, never really looked. Will take a look.

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Mike 2796
SoFo Bunch member

Thank you JohnHL!

Not sure how tight the trigger should be. When I have the hammer cocked for single action there is a little movement play in the trigger.

I have a new spring and rivet.
Replacing the spring is not a big deal.
However, how difficult is it to replace the rivet?

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Marty, the trigger should not move at all. (Obviously, it is a very small and thin spring, and hardly any pressure would be required to overcome its resistance, but in good condition, the trigger should not move if you lightly shake the pistol forward and aft.)

Replacing the spring and rivet requires removal of the draw bar from the pistol.

Remove and invert the draw bar, drill, file, or grind the peen from the shaft of the rivet, then remove the rivet and spring.

Install the new spring and rivet from the top and peen the rivet shaft underneath.

All small parts and very little force is required.

John

Thank you John!

Your info is great.

I have worked on a number of Smith autos and revolvers over the years and have never had a problem. Mostly wondering if the rivet is longer than necessary and would require shortening before being peening.

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You are most welcome!

Not the ones I've done, but it is a small part and could vary slightly in length.

It sounds like you are no stranger to tools, so I would say, use your best judgement after you have hand assembled the parts.

John