Collet Die (Lee) on Dillon 550B

[UKWildcats]

I started to set up my Dillon 550B for 223 Remington last night and had a issue that I am trying to determine if I am doing something wrong or if it is just the way it is.

I installed a Lee 223 Rem Collet Die at Station 1 per the Lee Instructions -- Screw in die until it touches the shell plate then tighten one more revolution.

I then ran a few cases but on at least 2 of the 5 to 6 cases did not feed properly and I damaged the case mouth beyond repair.

So Question is
-- Am I doing something wrong or is this just what is going to happen every once in a while -- Case is loose in the Dillon/Progressive and does not feed properly

My options are to accept it or to run the cases through my Lee Single Stage press then through the Dillon -- I think it might be to tricky to both watch/allign the cases while at the same time watch/allign the bullet seating.

Thanks for any help

UK

 

[243winxb]

Lee has 5 help topics on the collet die. Click "dies and die questions" here > http://leeprecision.com/xcart/Frequently-Asked-Questions.html

 

[dogrunner]

You sure you have the right base plate for that 550? I load a bunch of calibers and use the collet fcd on several with excellent results, in fact that die solved a lotta problems that I had with .30 carbine cases that were somewhat less than optimum.......if you are having an alignment issue I'd strongly suggest you call Dillon.

 

[UKWildcats]

I checked the Lee site and really did not see anything -- I will call Dillon (have to call them anyway concerning a lost part that I need to replace.

It is the correct Base Plate -- I only have two, one for the 45acp and associated cases and the other is for the 223, so it is almost impossible for me to get wrong.

Thanks for the help

 

[Master Blaster]

Try adjusting the case retainer wire in station one loosen the little screw that holds the wire and it will help hold the case in alignment if its adjusted properly. (you are putting it where you would normally decap and size right thats station 1?)

 

[UKWildcats]

Yes it is in Station one -- I looked at the wire and ran a few cases last night without issue -- I think I will have to be careful (and smooth) -- I am just coming off of 45acp and I might of got into a habit of being rough with the Dillon.

Thanks -- Now to await delivery of my spart parts kit -- lost the Powder Funnel Bellcrank Washer which will show up once my spart part kit is delivered.

UK

 

[rfwobbly]

I sometimes run a Lee 223 Collet die in my Dillon 550 and it's great. I believe die adjustment is your issue, not the Dillon press.

 

[UKWildcats]

It appears my problem was the spring retention (paper clip looking part on the dillon) was applying too much pressure on the case -- I lossened it up and the problem essentially went away or was greatly reduced.

As a side note I had lost the Bellcrank washer -- white plastic part on the powder funnel -- I ordered a 550 parts bag from BrianEnos since their s/h is 1/2 the price of dillon (the funny part is that the order is shipped by dillon) but I also sent an email to Dillon about just buying extra Bellcrank Washers and they ended up just sending me a couple for free. As people indicate their CS is very good -- I lost the part, as was just going to purchase extras for when I loose the replacements.

Thanks

UK

 

[LBEE]

I have the Dillon 550b & have called dillon several times when I set it up & they are Hard to beat in the CS department.