Wilson Combat - Replacement of all Springs on a 1911

Published on May 17, 2011
Duration: 6:03

This expert-level guide from Wilson Combat details the complete spring replacement process for a 1911 pistol, specifically a Government model. It covers the disassembly and reassembly of all internal springs, including the recoil, firing pin, plunger, sear, disconnector, and mainspring. The guide emphasizes proper spring orientation and includes crucial safety warnings, particularly for mainspring replacement requiring a vise.

Quick Summary

Replacing all springs in a 1911 pistol, including recoil, firing pin, plunger, sear, disconnector, and mainspring, is a critical DIY maintenance task. An expert guide from Wilson Combat details the process, emphasizing safety, proper spring orientation (tight coil first for firing pin spring), and the necessity of a vise for mainspring replacement.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to 1911 Spring Replacement
  2. 00:15Safety and Initial Disassembly
  3. 00:30Recoil Spring Replacement
  4. 00:41Firing Pin Spring Replacement
  5. 01:20Plunger Spring Replacement
  6. 01:46Mainspring Housing Disassembly
  7. 02:00Sear and Disconnector Spring Replacement
  8. 02:39Mainspring Replacement (Vise Required)
  9. 03:40Reassembly Initiation
  10. 03:51Reassembling Sear and Disconnector
  11. 04:30Reinstalling Thumb Safety
  12. 05:04Reassembling Firing Pin
  13. 05:27Final Slide and Recoil Spring Assembly
  14. 05:48Function Test and Completion

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools are necessary for replacing all springs in a 1911 pistol?

Essential tools for a complete 1911 spring replacement include a vise for the mainspring, punches, brushes, picks, screwdrivers, and a hex key set. Having these readily available ensures a smooth and safe maintenance process.

What is the correct way to install a 1911 firing pin spring?

The 1911 firing pin spring has a tight coil end and a loose coil end. Always install the tight coil end first into the firing pin, followed by the rest of the spring assembly.

Why is a vise required for 1911 mainspring replacement?

A vise is crucial for safely compressing the mainspring housing during replacement. The mainspring is under significant tension, and using a vise prevents uncontrolled release and potential injury.

How do you ensure proper sear and disconnector spring tension during 1911 reassembly?

During reassembly, ensure the left arm of the sear spring correctly engages the left leg of the sear. This precise alignment is vital for maintaining proper tension and reliable trigger and disconnector function.

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