de-cocker lockwork
In the end it's your choice, but I would respectfully advise against removing the de-cock assy internals. Re-assembly of the de-cocker and related parts requires the use of slave pins, three hands and special tools. Very unlike the more conventional 3rd generation internal mechanism. As far as I know, there is no special tool for the lock ring.
If the area needs cleaning, just use a pressurized spray cleaner. For parts replacement, I would send to S&W or and Authorized Service Center.
I worked on several of these during my years of armorer service, and they were always a bear for me to re-assemble properly....even after becoming familiar with them.
