gary
Major
- Joined
- Feb 20, 2005
I have two of the classical type mainspring vises. However, if I didn't have them, I would put the spring in the vise and clamp down to compress it. Be sure the vise jaws are lined first as you don't want to scratch the spring. Then the lock may be pivoted away from it and lifted off. Open the vise to release tension on the spring (don't want to leave a spring compressed too long). To reinstall the spring, put it back in the vise and compress it by closing the vise jaws. Put the plate back on and once the spring is attached, open the vise.
For screws, I recommend hollow grinding screws to fit. Household screwdrivers can be a source for them and are readily available from garage sales, flea markets, etc.
If you must ever remove the tumbler/sear, remove the hammer screw and measure the opening (square above the screw). Then find a piece of brass stock and file it to fit the square opening. Place the vise plate between two blocks of metal that are of equal height. If you don't do this, you can bow the lock plate. Then using the brass punch, you can knock the sear out of the lock plate.
For screws, I recommend hollow grinding screws to fit. Household screwdrivers can be a source for them and are readily available from garage sales, flea markets, etc.
If you must ever remove the tumbler/sear, remove the hammer screw and measure the opening (square above the screw). Then find a piece of brass stock and file it to fit the square opening. Place the vise plate between two blocks of metal that are of equal height. If you don't do this, you can bow the lock plate. Then using the brass punch, you can knock the sear out of the lock plate.
Bringing the