Which is Open end of a recoil spring?

[tracker]

One other thing: if the slide is locked open for disassembly
then there should be no tension on the spring to send the
cap flying when the bushing is turned to release the cap.
Am I missing something here or did I misunderstand what was
said?

[tracker]

Belay my last-- what I meant to say was that if the slide
is released from the frame as per standard instructions
then there should be no pressure on the spring and cap
in disassembly.

[Michigunner]

The Kimber instructions say to begin by turning the bushing, and removing the cap & spring.

Perhaps there are variations among the clones.

[tracker]

I don't know anything about the Kimber but that is almost
a guaranteed explosion on a standard 1911.

[tracker]

Bill,
Please disregard all I said on 1911 disassembly. I mixed up
my guns; sorry for the confusion: "Disengage brain, open
mouth, insert foot".

[Michigunner]

tracker,

I am accustomed to my other pistols, where the spring is not so much of a threat.  I've never had one fly off its resting place.

Thank God I was smart enough to not be looking at it head-on.

Fortunately, It struck a mirror at an angle and did not break anything.

Bill  

[Michigunner]

tracker,

The wood dowel idea is perfect for my 1911.

It has an excellent fit into the mainspring cap, and will help hold the cap while the bushing is rotated into place.

Thanks for a first class suggestion.  Re-assembly is good.  Life is good.

Bill

[tracker]

Bill,
You are most welcome; it certainly took my clumsy thumb
out of the picture. Thanks for the feedback.