Tony, in the for what its worth department this company advertises that it has the springs, both repos and original.
http://www.e-sarcoinc.com/lugerp08.aspx?page=2
Before "bending" the sideplate I would suggest comparing it to another one to see if it looks out of line.
Like Zormpas, my social piece almost needs a tool to start it down, I assume to get it past the spring in the groove. I just figured that was because my hands are weeker than I'd like to admit any more.
Best of luck
Gary