Lee Auto powder measure screws loosen

[shoots45s]

As I'm loading for 223, I'm finding that the two knurled nuts that hold the powder hopper down loosen until I start to get charges that are too high. The nuts have actually fallen off. This happens gradually as I'm loading. It takes 30-40 rounds for them to loosen and by 60 or so, one of the nuts will fall off.

Note that rather than using the double disk set, I'm using two Adjustable Charge Bars stacked on top of each other (yes it's possible with some careful filing of the guide pins on the bottom of the top bar).

Any ideas on how I can keep them from falling off. Since I need to remove them on occastion, LockTite isn't the solution. Bugger up the threads of the screw slightly? A turn of teflon tape perhaps?

Thanks,

 

[Lost Sheep]

As I'm loading for 223, I'm finding that the two knurled nuts that hold the powder hopper down loosen until I start to get charges that are too high. The nuts have actually fallen off. This happens gradually as I'm loading. It takes 30-40 rounds for them to loosen and by 60 or so, one of the nuts will fall off.

Note that rather than using the double disk set, I'm using two Adjustable Charge Bars stacked on top of each other (yes it's possible with some careful filing of the guide pins on the bottom of the top bar).

Any ideas on how I can keep them from falling off. Since I need to remove them on occastion, LockTite isn't the solution. Bugger up the threads of the screw slightly? A turn of teflon tape perhaps?

Thanks,

I would not try buggering the threads. Too hard to do it just the right amount and eventually you will have to do it again and again and ultimately they will wear out.

The teflon plumber's tape seems like a good idea and it if doesn't work leaves no permanent effects.

Why is LockTite not an option? Locktite blue is less permanent than the red and would be my first trial.

Lost Sheep

 

[Hondo 60]

I agree with Black Sheep.
You don't want to bugger the threads.
Blue Loctite should do nicely.

http://www.loctiteproducts.com/project/35/Tightening-a-lockset.htm

 

[Lost Sheep]

Another sudden thought - locknuts!

After you tighten the knurled nuts, put a second knurled nut atop the first.

Locknuts have been being used for at least a couple of centuries, haven't they? Have you got enough thread for that?

Lost Sheep

 

[shoots45s]

Thought of lock nuts but because there are two adjustable charger bars stacked (same issue with double disks), there's not enough threads showing on the bottom to put on the lock nuts. Or I could get replace the screws with longer ones and use the lock nuts.

I have some blue LockTite, so I'lll give that a try.

 

[joecil]

It should be a fairly common size bolt/tread size perhaps you can find some longer allowing you to use a standard nut as a lock nut.

 

[kingmt]

Are you using the sides of the double disk kit?

I replaced the bolts & put some springs on the bolts under the hopper on one of my measures. I can't tell you how well it worked because I haven't had a need for it yet.

 

[shoots45s]

Sides of the double disk set?

No, I'm using two Adjustable Charge Bars stacked on top of each other.

The springs are a good idea. I'd still need longer screws. If the LockTite doesn't work, I'll try lock nuts and then the springs. The problem is finding the ones that have the right strength.

 

[greyling22]

borrow some of your wifes/sisters/girlfriends/moms/neighbors/alternative lifestyle male's fingernail polish. or something similar to gum up the threads a little. no need for anything fancy.

 

[1SOW]

Pull one of the screws and take it to McCoy's or your go-to hardware store and get two longer screws and use a locking nut and/or star lock washer. Don't overtighten it.

 

[DoubleMag]

I don't know, will one regular disk stack with one adjustable disk? seems an easy solution



anyways....my suggestion is...rosin or some type of wax. can help set rimfire scope screws why not a press powder measure?

 

[kingmt]

Without something to between the hopper & base how are you going to support the sides? You can't keep the screws tight if you don't tighten them.

 

[MADDOG]

Put a rubber o-ring under the nut.

 

[higgite]

The double disk kit includes side support pieces and long replacement screws to prevent what you are experiencing with a double stack. If you don't want to spring for the kit, call Lee, they will probably either sell or give you the parts to make it work as they intended.