[Roundsworth]

Back the lockplate screw out a turn, or two, and tap on the head with the end of a plastic screwdriver handle (for example). This will push the right lockplate out a wee bit. Repeat this process until the lockplates are freed up from the wood. My 1886 toplever was real stiff with dried up oil and crud. I cleaned all the action locking components scrupulously and greased them with Gunslick gun grease. Over the lifetime of a gun, a drop of oil here and there accumulates and eventually gums up and also gets into the wood. Good luck!