Is this normal for a Forster die?

[theCZ]

I use a Forster .223 Rem neck size die to size all my 223 cases. After tumbling, I didn't get all the media out of a case, and when sizing the decapping assembly was bent. I called Forster and ordered a new decapping assembly. It came, and I noticed that it looked like there was no expander ball.

With my new parts came this:
"Our Bench Rest® Sizing Dies are all equipped with our exclusive "E-Z" Out Expander button which solves the age-old problem of keeping case necks concentric during the neck expanding operation. The Floating "E-Z" Out Expander corrects misalignment of the center spindle assembly and prevents the case neck from pulling off center during the expanding procedure. As shown in illustration (A), the "E-Z" Out Expander button is in an elevated position near the neck of the case. In illustration (B), the case is withdrawn from the die, but most of the neck is still supported in the neck sizing portion of the die, which keeps the axis of the neck and the case in alignment. Our exclusive design also reduces the effort required to draw the expander through the case neck because it takes full mechanical advantage of the power developed in the linkage of your press."


So, I'm confused. I can provide pictures if needed. My new assembly appears to not have an expander ball, and then they send me this new piece of paper.

 

[Ol` Joe]

The die has a ball, it`s as the intructions state at the upper end of the stem in stead of the bottom. This allows the ball to pull back out of the case expanding the neck while the case supported and alined in the die for better concentrisity. They work well at this and all Forster BR dies have this feature.

When installing the stem follow the instructions!! If the ball is placed too high it will try to pull back through the case neck while the neck is still inside the die. This will lock up the die and case, causeing you to mumble all types of nasty suggestions and demands.

 

[theCZ]

Here's what they sent me (bottom). The top is the assembly that was bent. I'm wondering if they sent me the part to decap, but not to expand. When I use the new assembly, there is not resistance when sizing.

 

[jak_67_429]

I did the same thing and had the same problem. call forester and explane the problem. they will send you the parts you need.

 

[theCZ]

I posted my problem on another forum, and they set me straight. I just had to take some pliers and unscrew the expander ball and put it on the new assembly. Problem solved!

 

[Jaywalker]

Did you notice the other parts that are missing - or at least aren't in your pic? The O-ring and nut that secures it aren't there. The last two Forster sizing dies I ordered also were missing. They sent them right out when I called, but I wonder if they've changed the standard equipment...

Jaywalker