Removing the side plate on a 442

[Timmylee]

Evening all, Ive done work on a number of S&W revolvers. 686, 19, 640. All have been steel framed revolvers.
What I want to do is remove the side plate on a 442 Airwight. I realize the process is very similar. Having said that, the screws seem to be loctited in. How do I go about loosening the loctite so thst I don't strip the screw heads.
I'm thinking heat. But how do I go about heating it up without warping the side plate or frame?
I have an Apex Tactical spring kit to put in.
Thank you in advance.
Tim

 

[Jeppo]

I learned a lesson from a gunsmith. He set the gun down the bench, inserted the properly sized hollow ground screwdriver and whacked the end of the screwdriver.

 

[gwpercle]

Do you have a proper set of gunsmith screw drivers .
The blades must be hollow ground and fit the screw slots perfectly .
If you don't ... how to clean up buggered up screw heads might be your next project .
Think about letting a pro remove the side plate and install the Apex kit .
My local gun shop installs them for free when you buy the kit frome them ... I brought my AirWeight J-Frame in one Saturday morning, paid for the kit , had two cups of free coffee and the job was done .
I didn't screw up a thing or utter one curse word !
Gary

 

[chief38]

First - put a little Kroil (penetration oil to loosen things) on the screw and let it set there over night to seep into the thread (hopefully loosen it a bit).

Second, insert the proper sized hollow ground screwdriver bit and apply a little heat to the bit NOT to the screw or gun!! You can use something as simple as a butane lighter that has a jet flame. Don't get it red hot!! Get is about 250º or so and the screwdriver bit will transfer the heat to the screw without mucking up the gun. The bit must fit properly and have good contact with the screw slot so heat transfers.

Third, with a downward force on the screwdriver (so it doesn't slip), slowly start to turn the screw and hopefully that will remove it.

NOTE: Best to have the gun in a stable and secure position. A second person can hold it down for you while doing the above.