Lee powder through expander not flaring

[howelljeffrey]

I purchased the Lee powder through expander (40sw) so I could use the auto disk powder measure. I have the die screwed down so that it is contacting the shell holder and it still won't flair the case (i.d. = .398). Now I am back to using my hornady expander die in the fourth hole of my classic turret press...an extra step in the process. Does anyone have any suggestions? The powder measure function works great. Thanks in advance!

 

[Randy1911]

Maybe a mis-machined part? Measure the expander and see if there is any flare to it. If not, call Lee.

 

[Nolz]

Might seem a silly suggestion, however....did you have the powder thrower attached to the die when you tried?

I'm not sure about how the mechanics of it works but my cases weren't flaring until I put the powder thrower on. I was adjusting the dies at the time which was why it wasn't attached. I thought it was busted also.

 

[Walkalong]

I have the die screwed down so that it is contacting the shell holder and it still won't flair the case

That doesn't matter. You must adjust the piece that screws in the top of the die. It adjust how much flair you get. If it is screwed down all the way, you are missing a part.

 

[JDGray]

That doesn't matter. You must adjust the piece that screws in the top of the die. It adjust how much flair you get.

The expander is only held in my the top funnel adapter, the die body moved up or down, is what adjust the bell. Is the expander plug in there?

 

[shootinxd]

Complete the installation of the powder measure ,see if it works.The powder measure is spring loaded and expands the case.Hope this helps.

Jim

 

[Walkalong]

The expander is only held in my the top funnel adapter, the die body moved up or down, is what adjust the bell. Is the expander plug in there?

Dang it. That's what I get from going on memory.

Just checked. Your right, the funnel stays screwed down tight, and the flare is adjusted moving the die body up and down.

 

[tango2echo]

I screw the die in until it touches plus 1/3 to 1/2 turn. The directions on the .32H&R die say to do this and I've found it helpful with other calibers. Also, the expander ball is very rough on the Lee PTE die. It is supposed to be "alittle" rough so the die shakes the powder out as you raise the press handle. With the dies I have though, it was so rough as to score the inside of the cases. I smoothed it lightly with emory cloth and it will not damage the brass now, while still working as intended.

t2e

 

[RB98SS]

I recently ordered a set of .357 sig dies and the expander plug I received was incorrect. It was shorter than a .357 magnum plug and I can only assume it was for a .357 maximum. Lee sent me the correct plug.

 

[mgkdrgn]

I had a Lee 30 cal carbine expander die that had the WRONG expander insert inside .. .it crushed the cases.

Contacted Lee and they replaced the insert gratis.

Perhaps you have a similar situation? Take the insert out and compare to your 40 S&W case. Could be it's the wrong one.