Official Police, Trigger Binding After Sideplate Re-Install

[Walter Rego]

I removed the sideplate from my 1941 Official Police. It was removed with the correct method of rapping across the frame with a wooden handle. I hosed out the inside with Gun Scrubber, and lubricated. No parts were removed. The action functions normally without the sideplate in place and did before I removed it. When I reinstall the sideplate, being careful to align the cyl. release latch with the pin, and press the sideplate back down in place and tighten the screws, the hammer either totally binds or if I relieve the screw tension a little it will cock but then the trigger won't return when pulled to lower the hammer. I have Kuhnhausens book but there is nothing there addressing this problem. I'm stumped. What am I doing wrong ? Thanks

[A1A]

Ensure that the rebound lever arm is sitting on the cam on the inside of the hand and not on the hand axis. Do this by inserting a screwdriver blade or wedge between the frame and rebound lever and twisting slightly to raise the lever while pressing the hand in.

[Walter Rego]

A1A, that tip did it. A BIG THANKS to you. It sounds like this is a common occurrance so I'll be sure to watch for it if I ever get brave enough to remove a Colt sideplate again

[A1A]

Good deal. Yes, the rapping to loosen the sideplate can easily vibrate the hand out but it's not immediately obvious. You're not the first to experience that.

[smkummer]

Congrats to A1A for hitting the nail on the head. I was going to say to also check that the safety was connected but I have had that only happen when I have completly taken all of the internals out for a complete cleaning.

[longranger]

Very timely thread as I had just removed the side plate from my Pocket Positive this happened.I could see it was not right and took few minutes to study it I was able to figure out how to fix it.

[Walter Rego]

I had not removed any parts after reading that Colt actions were tricky to completely disassemble, so it must have popped out of place from rapping on the frame to vibrate the sideplate loose. Maybe a sticky could be posted in this section, with a photo of the rebound lever arm area that needs to be lifted up while the hand is pressed fully down into place ?