Quick Tip: You guys running out and getting screw driver kits to take apart the revolver, remember getting the right size drivers is only half the task.. I've not seen a stock set yet that had the bits properly fitted for removing the sideplate screws.. They "all" need to be gound/filed and dressed so the bit fills the entire slot of the screw. To do that, find the bit thats the correct width for the screw, then grind it down till its "fat" enough to fill the slot properly. Once ya got that, dress any sharp edges with a file.. Now have at it!!
Oh yea, a link to a great thread on takedown, repair, and reassembly of a "modern" S&W K frame revolver.. (J frames are basically the same, sans the coiled main spring which needs to be removed by partially cocking the hammer and slipping a paperclip into the hole, then letting the hammer back down.. The spring will then slip right out. Leave the paperclip in it for reinstalling..)
The S&W Revolver by Sylvan Forge (A basic recap of Jerry Kuhnhausen's Manual)