Recoil spring retainer placement?

[kevinqjhps]

When replacing the recoil spring, or just cleaning I NEVER seem to line up the round retainer that fits against the barrel o the first try. Seems like I always have to fractionally move it then try to move the slide back on.

Since once the slide is removed does it man sense to use a scribe to make a witness line on the top dead center of the round retainer? I THINK this would make this and future assembly easier. Is this right or am I missing something? Thanks

kevinqjhps

[MICHPATRIOT]

When I assemble the pistol I leave the spring assy a lot high in the slide so it will initially not fit into the frame dust cover under the slide...and as I push the slide on the frame, I tuck the spring just enough till it fits in the dust cover and it aligns perfect every time.