Lee full length resizing die -- stuck decapper clamp !

[The Kurgan]

Just getting set-up and for the life of me, I simply cannot loosen that damn decapper clamp. I am not sure if they all come new from the factory that way. I don't want to knacker the bolt head... any advice.

 

[mwjones]

They have to be REALLY tight. It's kind alike a hollow split screw that holds the decapping pin. It's a bonus because if you accidentally hit a berdan primed case or something strange, the pin just pushes up into the die, unlike some other brands where the pin breaks. I keep two adjustable wrenches next to my press. If you did happen to bugger the die trying to loosen it, lee will replace it for free. Hope that helps

 

[zuke]

The die use's a 3/4 inch wrench,the bolt your talking about use's a 1/2 wrench.
It's a lot easier to work on when it's in the reloading press.

 

[The Kurgan]

Thanks guys. I bought two QUALITY wrenches (1/2" and 3/4") and with a bit of fiddling, I was able to loosen the decapper. Forget about adjustable wrenches and cheap wrenches. No damage done.

 

[iceman2]

The proper tools make life SO much easier.

 

[rookie wildcat]

I always use a 1/2" deep set socket for the decapping pin nut. No way of slipping then.
Always go for better tools than the dollar store stuff.

 

[Iron Sighted]

LOL, just be careful when tightening it back up, I had issues with mine not getting tight enough and slipping while decapping even though I had cranked it pretty much as tight as I could...so last time I tried to re-tighten it I ended up twisting the top right off the piece that clamps the de-capping pin.

Anyways, end result is that I now need to send my die off to Lee for warranty, glad I had a fair bit of .308 already loaded, hopefully it won't take too long to send off and get my replacement back.

 

[Rory McCanuck]

I was suprised at how tight they are, but they have to be.
I adjusted one, and had to really crank it tight to get it to
stop pushing up and actually decap the primer.
Hint: Snug it up, set your wrenches so they are close together.
Squeeze the wrenches together like the handles of
a pair of pliers. You can develop a lot of force with little
effort, and you have lots of control. If something slips, its
just a wrench goes flying, not a knuckle being removed without
anesthetic.

 

[zuke]

Degrease the decapper pin and it's collet.

 

[easyrider604]

Degrease the decapper pin and it's collet.

/\ Makes sense! Why didn't I think of that!

 

[glycerin]

1. use good tools
2. degrease decapper shaft and inside of collet.
3. clean threads, male and female then litely grease thread only