Parts interchangeability?

[Questor]

How is parts interchangeability between different flavors of 1911-A1 pistols? Can I assume that if I need, say, a spring for my Kimber that the analogous spring for a Colt or Springfield Armory will work?

[IntrepidWizard]

No,that is why Ihave always carried Colt 1911's ,so easy to fix and why change the Manufacture if it ain't broke and keeps on ticking?

[BamBams]

Yes, that is one of the great things about having a 1911 - the majority of parts are interchangeable.

Let's see:

My Kimber ambi-safety is half Ed Brown & half Wilson.  (Fitting Required)
The hammer, sear, and disconnector are "Cylinder & Slide." (Drop In)
The barrel bushing is an EGW. (Drop In - Almost)
The mag well is a Smith & Alexander (Drop In)
The springs are Wolf (Drop In)
The extended slide release is Wilson (Drop In)
The mag release is a Nowlin (Drop In)
The grips are from Navidex (Drop In)
The beavertail is a Wilson high ride. (Fitting Required)

What am I forgetting?

The firing pin stop is an STI. (Drop In)
The barrel bushing is a Wilson ".278 (Drop In)

Keep in mind though, some of these parts do require fitting to the individual frame - like the thumb safety and beaver tail.  Springs are all drop-in.

"Broke" is a relative term as far as I'm concerned.    

If ya don't know what you're doing, solicit help from a gunsmith, or be prepared to make some goof ups, and pay for them.