L-N-L PTX, crushing brass

[ferggie]

I am having problems with the edge of the brass (mouth) getting crushed from time to time at the powder drop and expander location. It is not over flaring the case mouth but will crush a small portion of the edge. This doesn't happen every time but maybe 1 in 10. I checked for burrs and found nothing. Took assembly apart and cleaned all of the components and reassembled. I haven't had this issue with 45's just the 38 specials.

 

[cfullgraf]

Is your case retaining spring kinked. It can upset a case where it does not enter the die straight. A kink can lift the edge of the case rim.

I do not expand at the powder die, so i cannot make suggestions with the PTX tube.

 

[ferggie]

spring fine

I checked the spring when I disassembled everything and there were no kinks at all.

 

[k4swb]

I use this: http://www.powderfunnels.com/
and only need the one for all my pistol loading. I tried the Hornady PTX inserts and this works better for me.

 

[Blue68f100]

Is the shell plate tight?. If it's catching the edge of the case then the brass is tilted. The only way for it tilt is, warped shell plate not flat. Shell plate not tight causing the spring to ride up and push it in toward the center of the press. A kinked spring on rare occasions.

I love the use to the PTX but getting it set right can be a pain. I have a seperate powder die base for each caliber so I do change my settings. Now if your over flaring on occasion it could be a long brass. They work good once they get polished out. When new they have a tendency to stick on the down stroke.

If you don't find the cause Call Hornady CS, their 1st Class.