Model 36 Sideplate Removal?

[Fewman]

I just inherited a pre-Model 36 J-frame, 1957, and after 55 years I'm wondering what's under the side plate, lubrication wise. I known grandpa wasn't one for maintenance on anything he owned and it really needed a barrel/cylinder cleaning when I received it. I have read about methods of soaking the action in ATF/mineral spirits/acetone 'soup' (probably later attracts debris), using aerosol brake cleaners, etc, but I think just opening it up for inspection would be where to begin. I understand the process of removing the sideplate correctly and have already 'broke' the 3 screws loose successfully. I'm not looking to perform a detail strip (already viewed the FAQ) unless it's needed, just clean and apply the proper amount of lube to the right surfaces.

My plan is to remove the side plate, clean/flush with brake cleaner and dry with compressed air (~40PSI), inspect and lightly Rem oil the pivot points. I've detail stripped Ruger revo's before but this is my first S&W and was told they are a little different . My question is when I remove the sideplate, I understand from the FAQ here is that no other parts will drop/spring out...is this correct? Just looking for confirmation. Input appreciated...

[azmick]

Take all the side plate screws out and shot a few rounds through it, the plate will fall right off
With that out of the way, if it is a messy as you think it might be, nothing will fall out after gently tapping the frame in the grip area, with stocks removed and allowing the plate to fall into your waiting hand. The hammer blck can/could fall out but there is only one way to put it back in and the FAQ section has some excellent photos. Have no fear of loosing anything until you get to the spring loaded parts, then duck, wear safety glasses or disassemble inside a covered fish tank.
We are here to help if you get in trouble.

[FlaRon]

^^^^^^^^^^ THIS^^^^^^^^

Mick is very knowledgeable about proper dis-assembly techniques and safety proceedures.

Regards,

FlaRon

[banger]

If you have a digital camera, take pix as you go, so you will have something to refer to . . .

I would recommend that you remove the mainspring (beneath the grips) to lessen strain on things -- also, I would recommend that you not cycle the trigger with the plate off, unless all spring tension has been removed prior to cycling -- also, it would probably be best (for ease of handling) to have the cylinder removed while you have the side plate off . . .

It's not exactly like the inside of a watch, but it isn't like inside a Colt, either . . .

[Oldgungeezer]

^^^^^^^^^^ THIS^^^^^^^^

Mick is very knowledgeable about proper dis-assembly techniques and safety proceedures.

Regards,

FlaRon

LOL............................he sure is.

Regards,

Geezer

[Fewman]

Well, piece of cake! Thanks guys.

Whether grandpa bought new or not, I know he would never had removed that sideplate. That would mean the action had not seen daylight for at least 50 years 'cause I seen this firearm under his mattress way back in the early '60's (don't tell on me)! I am surprised it's as clean as it is. Maybe a little dry but I cancelled the brake cleaner flush and just brushed it out and put a drop or two of oil on all the pivot points. I gently worked the action a little to get some of the oil to penetrate before closing everything back up.

Can't really tell how much it improved the action yet but I'm sure I won't need to open it up again in the long term. I'm also guessing that it likely has not seen many rounds either...

Photo's of the open action before I dusted it off...

[Injunbro]

Nice gun. At the current rate your great- grandkids will inherit this gun some day & realize it still has a lot of use left in it.