Index problem with turret

[TCAS]

Could someone point me in the right direction for getting the lee turret press indexing timed properly. I just got it yesterday and took out the indexing rod to set up the dies. Once the dies were set I re-installed the index rod but it was not timed properly.

I went to the lee site but could not view the video-but thats another problem;


thanks

TCAS

 

[Eric F]

I watched the video on the lee site it said cycle the press with the ram in the down position use an adjustable wrench place it on the indexing rod then with your free hand turn the turret to the correct position cycle the press to check for correct adjustment.

 

[The Bushmaster]

Or with the die holder out of time loosen the clamp screw just a tad and turn the hex nut on the clamp attached to the ram with a wrench in the direction that turns the die holder in the desired direction until the die holder makes the detent ball. Tighten the clamp screw and cycle the ram a few times to insure it stops at the detent.

 

[jfh]

I just updated my turret to the 4-die version--the principle for tuning them is the same, but they do react a bit differently.

First, you can bring the turret into nominal adjustment by raising the ram above the index rod twist and then move the turret to set it properly. I assume you have that done, and now are tweaking the index so it settles into the detents repeatedly.

1. The Lee video description is correct--and here's some things to keep in mind:

a. my update index rod is a very malleable steel--and even a fixed-size wrench can mar it. GRASP IT HIGH, JUST UNDER THE TURRET, so if you do mar it, the ratchet in the ram indexer assembly will not touch the mar. If it does--bingo; failure sooner than later.

b. you may find it easier to use a socket and wrench to grip and turn the upper square (turret) nut to get precise adjustments. As you adjust the indexing nut bring it "up", not down, so that the turret top flange barely contacts the frame when the press is sitting. Now oil that flange. This will create the least drag and make operation much smoother.

If you mar the rod, then sand off any burrs, etc., then put a light coating of oil on it. PUT A BIG DROP OF OIL ON THE TURRET BASE.

If you short-stroke the press and try to move things while the ram is in the index rod twist, you will damage the ratchet. You get an extra one; buy more from Lee--and if this is the standard turret 4-die setup, buy another ram indexer assembly. (Lee has been known to send these free, or for postage only, BTW.) Likewise, ignore the 'crooked' ram assembly and index rod "off center"--it doesn't matter for accurate and reliable operation, and there is a design defect in the (4-hole) assembly that makes it impossible to stay 'square' to the press.

Finally, plan on simply cleaning up the press and re-oiling the rod, the base 'dot,' and turret flange every 500 rounds or so. Get rid of the powder grunge and re-oil it.

Any other questions, feel free to ask.

Jim H.

 

[TCAS]

thanks all,

I pulled the rod, clamped it high up and guesstimated how much to turn the top nut. Luckily I nailed it on the first try. timing is good again.

TCAS

 

[pinkymingeo]

Once you have the indexing adjusted mechanically, you'll find that indexing is dependent upon the operator. The powder measure throws everthing out of balance, and if you just yank on the handle, the turret will often-as-not miss the detent. Takes practice and consistency. I operate the handle with my right hand, and keep my left hand on the top of the press. You can see, or sense, when you've missed the detent, and make a quick adjustment without losing stride.

 

[davinci]

as a note, I would call up lee (or send them an email) and get a few more of the plastic ratchets, they do wear out over time.... ten thousand rounds or more, but still you never know how long they're going to be available.

I emailed them and said please send me a few ratchets after my first one wore out. I told them I was disappointed that it didn't come with a few extras since it was such a small, inexpensive part.