After further review, a few questions arose. Apparently it is the locking bolt mechanism that is causing the issue. The question is: are the locking bolt mechanisms the same size in the different size frames, or are all internal parts made to scale? In other words will number two frame internals work in a 1 1/2 frame receiver.
That being said, with the barrels off and the lug disengaged, the top lever moves smoothly without the hitch/catch that causes the shotgun to be difficult to open.
Thank you again for any helpful information
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