Side plate of Trooper 38 binding on install

[pittpa]

I just got this 1963 vintage gun. I rapped on the grip frame to remove the side plate, it came off without difficulty. I've had Python side plates off and on without difficulty in the past. This won't go back on, binds at edges, despite making sure the hand is in all the way and the cylinder release is lined up. After looking around the forum, I removed the hand and cylinder release button/spring from the plate to rule out any interference, still no go. I find no burrs or anything unusual around the edges of the frame or the plate. Does it matter which edges I line up first? Any other ideas, aside from taking it to the gunsmith, which I'll be glad to do if it does not go back on?

[A1A]

The gunsmith has the same challenge. While holding the latch back as you say, you must keep the sideplate as level as possible while inserting it and not use force, but rather rotate or wiggle a bit (the sideplate, not you) when you meet any edge resistance. That's the only way I can describe it. They are made to fit quite snugly and can take a lot of fiddling to get back on. Keep it level. If it gets cocked, back it out and try again. It may be tempting but not advisable to draw it down with the screws at least until it is almost completely seated. Thumb pressure should do it if it is started correctly. If it's any consolation, the MkIIIs are even more difficult.

If you need encouragement, watch the Spongebob episode where he is teaching Plankton disguised as Sandy how to make a crabby patty properly.

[Shadyduk1979]

Yea whoever decided that that additional tab needed to be on there, must have their ears burning when i curse them out while putting the side cover back on lol

If it's any consolation, the MkIIIs are even more difficult.

[pittpa]

A1A, you were right. I tinkered with it from time to time over the last week. I finally found the hangup was the curved surface at the bottom. By slipping the bottom in a tiny bit before the top, I was able to use thumb pressure to seat the plate. It took about 15 seconds once I got it started right.
Thank you. It is tough to photo a nickel gun. I will make another post to inquire on the brushed parts of the finish.

[A1A]

Glad you were successful and thanks for the feedback.