The 1911 platform is like many semi-auto ones in that out of spec parts will cause unintended consequences. The 1911 has been around for over 100 years and worn out/out of spec parts are too easy to find. Users tend to try to Dremel tool and coarse file parts, resulting in an out of spec and potentially non-running or FA 1911.
The Colt .45 Automatic shop manual by Jerry Kuhnhausen has a wealth of info. Jigs, fixtures, and quality precision measuring equipment are necessary to do some of the operations mentioned in the manual.
Many a 1911 owner is best off getting his pistol to a gunsmith who fully understands the 1911 and has the tools in his gunsmith chest.