Thumb Catch on DS

[Ronald12]

I just picked up a 1965 DS and have a question on the thumb latch that you open the cylinder with. On this DS is loose fitting. When you shake the revolver, you can hear it rattle. Put your thumb on it and you don't hear it. It is very loose fittign. Is somethign wrong or is this normal. Hoep to hear back soon as I would like tocall the seller. Ron

[dfariswheel]

There could be several problems.

One is the small white nylon stud under the cylinder release is missing or worn down. This can be replaced with a piece of the right size of white weed eater cord.

The second problem is the spring that powers the latch is weak or impacted with gunk.

Third is a worn or even factory mis-fit latch.

Here's an exploded view of the DS.

http://stevespages.com/ipb-colt-detectivespecial.html

The nylon stud is part number 13. It's pressed into the side plate or the latch itself.

The spring and plunger that power the latch are parts 12. (for some reason the tiny plunger isn't shown).

[Ronald12]

Thank you. I just got it about 30 minutes ago, so not sure I should return ot not. All else seems fine. Bank vault lock up. Buying a spring is cheaper than return postage, but the the fact I have to work on a new purchase is irritating!
If I open the cylinder and put pressure on the round piece of metal that locks into the back of the cylinder, teh thumb catch is solid. That leads me to believe a weak spring.
Next problem, if I remove the side plate screws, does just the side plate come off and none of the other parts that aren't attached to the plate fall out? Thanks, Ron

[Ronald12]

Dfariswheel
What would you do at this point? Is it difficult toremove the side plate and what will also come off with the plate. THe seller
already
said they will accecpt the return with a full refund plus shipping. Ron

[Ronald12]

Any other inputs?

[A1A]

Only the latch assembly comes off with the sideplate (it can spring loose, because obviously it is slightly spring loaded but nothing major). I don't know what tools or previous experience you have. Hollow ground screwdrivers or bits of the right size are highly recommended in order to avoid the very common damaged screw slots. The sideplate should not be pried off. With the stocks removed, a few sharp wraps on the grip frame with a screwdriver handle or the like will vibrate the sideplate loose. It is not particularly difficult, but I do not know your mechanical ability or comfort level with such things.

[MtnSpur]

The following are cautions: Sideplates can be troublesome if you've not attempted them before. Never pry one off !!! If you bugger the screws you'll be kicking yourself. The seams of the sideplate to the frame are TIGHT and people have experienced more trouble getting the sideplate back in place than removing them. The latch pin inside the frame whilst pushing back on the latch to align, whilst positioning the sideplate....fun. FWIW

[Ronald12]

I think I will not try it. Since it is a new purchase and have only had it for a few hours, I feel I shouldn't have to modify or repair it. Since I will get a full refund plus postage/transfer fees, Iwill return and look for one that does not require repair. Than you again for the help. Ron

[Ronald12]

Does that sound like a good plan? Ron

[dfariswheel]

Yes.
You paid for a gun in good shape and didn't get it.
While the repair could be a very simple fix, it might be something else that could cost you a trip to Colt for repair.