Stubborn K Frame Sideplate

[InTheWoods]

Attempting to put a lighter trigger return spring in my new 617 (done this with several other SWs in the passed). Probably won't mess with the mainspring as most of my rimfire shooting is single action. Present trigger pull is 5.7 pounds.

To the point: the side plate moves only slightly when the grip frame is given significant raps (maybe only raises a 10th of an inch at it's rear). It stays snug and won't pop out. It pushes back in place with some moderate effort. It is tight enough I fear I won't be able to get it back in if I ever do get it out.

Suggestions?

 

[Protocall_Design]

Take it off, put magic marker around the bottom part where it contacts the frame, on the edge of the sideplate. Put the sideplate back on the gun and tap it down with a rubber mallet or something non marring. Take it back off and see where the marker was rubbed off by contact with the frame. Use a fine file to remove material in those areas, keeping the file off of the outline of the outside of the sideplate. This will relieve the tight spots and make it easier to get on and off, without anything visible showing on the outside.

 

[greenrunner]

To remove the sideplate, turn the gun sideplate down, put your hand under the sideplate, put a towel on the edge of workbench, and rap the grip area down sharply on the bench/towel. The sideplate should come off in your hand. If it comes off, can't see why it would not go back on.

 

[Greyman50]

Reason to have a small leather hammer.

 

[Alk8944]

Strike the frame harder, use a screwdriver handle. Sometimes you need to hit it 2-3 times!

 

[bigggbbruce]

Take an ice cube cool sideplate, hit a bit harded.

Warm gun and cool plate to put it back together if it's really that tight.

 

[a5werkes]

Reason to have a small leather hammer.

Why not start soft.