19-3 cylinder release button removal

[Bill Cullen]

I just picked up a very good mechanical condition 19-3 nickel. The problem is the gun was very dirty so I have been cleaning up the finish with Flitz. I have returned the exterior finish to a condition near equal to the nickel finish under the grips but can't get in tight enough around the cylinder release button to polish the frame in that area. if i can remove the cylinder release button then I can complete. Can anyone provide any guidance. I don't know enough about the inner workings to know if i remove the screw to remove the button if I will cause a new problem when trying to replace the button. My fear is that since the button is spring loaded that if I remove the button the mechanism that engages the button will get pushed into the inside surface of the frame and then I won't be able to get the button back in.

Thanks

 

[snw19_357]

The spring is inside the frame and will not come out if you remove the thumbpiece. You may have to move the stud back a little bit to get the thumpiece back on but removing it to clean under it won't cause you any problems.

It is a narrow and wide slot so just make sure you use a screwdrive that fits well.

 

[lebomm]

That "screw" is actually a nut. Just so you know what to expect. Nothing will go flying or drop inside when you remove the thumbpiece nut or the thumbpiece. Let us know how you make out.

Larry