Lee Pro 6000 unboxing and testing for OAL consistency

Adding Deluxe Auto Drum to "Update Parts/New Products".

Press Set Up:
New Priming System:
Press Disassembly and Reassembly:
Fine tuning press operation for consistency:
Troubleshooting and Solutions:
Beta testing/Product development:
Lee Precision Update Parts/New Products:
 
Last edited:
LiveLife said:
Just for you, I sent "special request" emails asking if they could do Auto Drum with "old" red powder hopper.

Ask and you shall receive. (This illustrates Lee Precision's sensitivity to customer base needs and wants ... Thanks Calvin :) I am sure John Lee got a kick out of one particular "urgent" email :oops:)

We had several email exchanges where I pointed out the positive virtues of the red powder hopper with lid, mainly the lid that allows dumping back of powder along with don't fix what's not broken ..., What are we to do with powder charges we test weighed ..., etc. etc. 😁 (Poor Calvin ... You guys should see some of the emails I sent to him, especially before my morning coffee :rofl:)


So, new for 2024 ... Deluxe Auto Drum with red hopper and lid - https://leeprecision.com/deluxe-auto-drum-powder-measure

(BTW, 50 drop test of Auto Drum with 90% of W231/HP-38 within .04 gr of target - https://www.thehighroad.org/index.php?threads/50-drops-lee-auto-drum-powder-measure.924637/)

Deluxe Auto-Drum Powder Measure with new red anodized swivel adapter that provides a larger gripping area for adjusting into your press, and raises the powder measure to clear the tallest dies, and eliminates the need for the riser.​
​
Automatic case actuated drum powder measure. Accurately and automatically dispense powder in your favorite cartridge. Two infinitely adjustable drums included. These Quick Change drums will accurately and reliably drop charges from 1 to 80 grains of powder.​
  • Case actuated; never spill a charge.
  • Exclusive elastomer wiper prevents powder shearing, works great with difficult metering extruded powders.
  • Machined body with labyrinth groove mates to the precision molded nylon drums providing a leak free fit with the finest powders.
  • Drum is actuated by a steel sector and pinion gear train.
  • Quick-change hopper has on/off valve to quickly change powders.
  • Sleek modern design, all gears springs and levers inside the die cast housing.
  • Features red anodized swivel adapter, makes adjusting and moving measure fast and convenient. Also provides clearance for the longest reloading dies.
0004804_deluxe-auto-drum-powder-measure_550.jpeg
Click to expand...
:barf::barf: I asked and emailed(tp John) them years ago with this concern but guess I am not on their preferred client list even after spending gobs of money on their products, As I mentioned in my "done with Lee thread) No more from me. They pissed me off and lost a long time customer over some silly little plastic parts (not the lid)
 
LiveLife said:
  1. Size, deprime
  2. Prime, Step flare, Powder charge
  3. Powder check die
  4. Bullet feeder die
  5. Seat bullet
  6. Crimp
Click to expand...
That is the way I have my Pro 6000 set up to load .45ACP also.

Works really well as it addresses my main issue with the placement of the powder measure...hard to see into the case...this way my powder check die (RCBS) is easily seen as the shell plate rotates. The bullet feeder in Station 4 saves my left wrist from having to work around a support post
 
LiveLife said:
So, new for 2024 ... Deluxe Auto Drum with red hopper and lid
Click to expand...
I had seriously considered getting an old style hooper to go on my Autodrum until I saw what they wanted for them as an aftermarket piece...4x the previous price

The swivel is also nice as a replacement for the riser I have on my Autodrum now...the larger area should definitely make adjustments easier
 
9mmepiphany said:
I had seriously considered getting an old style hooper to go on my Autodrum until I saw what they wanted for them as an aftermarket piece...4x the previous price

The swivel is also nice as a replacement for the riser I have on my Autodrum now...the larger area should definitely make adjustments easier
Click to expand...
That's MSRP and actual retail pricing should be lower. Auto Drum MSRP is $55 but retails for $39. So $65 Deluxe Auto Drum should retail around $46 - https://leeprecision.com/search?q=auto+drum

And for those who already have Auto Drum, there's update kit to "Deluxe" for $17 - https://www.titanreloading.com/product/lee-deluxe-auto-drum-update-kit/

Auto-Drum Update Kit​
​
Update Auto-Drum Powder Measure with a new red anodized swivel adapter. New swivel adapter has a larger gripping area for adjusting into your press. Raises powder measure to accomodate long stemed dies, and eliminates the need for the riser. Includes red anodized swivel adapter, powder hopper, valve and screw.​
​
Click here to view upgrade instructions.​
​
The deluxe swivel adapter improves handling and adjustment of the Auto Drum, and raises powder measure to clear the tallest dies. We’ve also provided the highly requested hopper with removable cover.​

Bill M said:
Bill M said:
I used the hopper from my "perfect powder measure", just swapped the lower part!
Click to expand...
I went ahead and paid the $10 so I would have my "perfect" measure working again!
Click to expand...
It's $8 from Lee Precision - https://leeprecision.com/hopper-cov-round-red

Rule3 said:
:barf::barf: I asked and emailed(tp John) them years ago with this concern but guess I am not on their preferred client list even after spending gobs of money on their products, As I mentioned in my "done with Lee thread) No more from me. They pissed me off and lost a long time customer over some silly little plastic parts (not the lid)
Click to expand...
Having spent some time as beta/product tester involved with product development from idea/design to R&D sampling/testing to final production, I have renewed appreciation for what a manufacturer goes through (It's not easy as we think as this is done while existing product and new product lines are supported concurrently). And keep in mind, all "Made in USA". (And no, Lee Precision likely won't give into temptation of globalization even though it will improve profit margin 👍)

To me, the fact that Lee Precision reached out to their customer base to "collaborate" existing and future product line development and enhancement/update with "full transparency" of public open online forum says a lot about the company and their desire to be customer-centric.

20 pages of posts forever archived to THR server cloud illustrate the "collaboration" that played out in "real time" of problem identification by end users/THR members to full resolution of updated/new replacement parts where now the flagship Six Pack Pro press/Pro 6000 kit is deemed "fully reliable" by me as I continue to stress test and forward product design ideas for improvement. Compared to other manufacturers, this was "lightning fast" - https://www.thehighroad.org/index.p...ting-for-oal-consistency.911743/post-12821516


Adding Auto Drum update kit to Deluxe Auto Drum to "Update Parts/New Products" and adding Auto Drum 50 drops of powder charge weights to "Fine tuning press operation for consistency".

Press Set Up:
New Priming System:
Press Disassembly and Reassembly:
Fine tuning press operation for consistency:
Troubleshooting and Solutions:
Beta testing/Product development:
Lee Precision Update Parts/New Products:
 
Last edited:
It's $8 from Lee Precision
Click to expand...
Yes, but the 6PP shellplates are $35 from Lee and $25 from Titan!
I'm putting together shellplates and breech lock bushing for my different calibers, as well as spares, and Titan has better pricing overall!
 
Bill M said:
Yes, but the 6PP shellplates are $35 from Lee and $25 from Titan!
I'm putting together shellplates and breech lock bushing for my different calibers, as well as spares, and Titan has better pricing overall!
Click to expand...
Yes, Titan Reloading tends to have lowest prices.
 
LiveLife said:
Just for you, I sent "special request" emails asking if they could do Auto Drum with "old" red powder hopper.

Ask and you shall receive. (This illustrates Lee Precision's sensitivity to customer base needs and wants ... Thanks Calvin :) I am sure John Lee got a kick out of one particular "urgent" email :oops:)

We had several email exchanges where I pointed out the positive virtues of the red powder hopper with lid, mainly the lid that allows dumping back of powder along with don't fix what's not broken ..., What are we to do with powder charges we test weighed ..., etc. etc. 😁 (Poor Calvin ... You guys should see some of the emails I sent to him, especially before my morning coffee :rofl:)


So, new for 2024 ... Deluxe Auto Drum with red hopper and lid - https://leeprecision.com/deluxe-auto-drum-powder-measure

(BTW, 50 drop test of Auto Drum with 90% of W231/HP-38 within .04 gr of target - https://www.thehighroad.org/index.php?threads/50-drops-lee-auto-drum-powder-measure.924637/)

Deluxe Auto-Drum Powder Measure with new red anodized swivel adapter that provides a larger gripping area for adjusting into your press, and raises the powder measure to clear the tallest dies, and eliminates the need for the riser.​
​
Automatic case actuated drum powder measure. Accurately and automatically dispense powder in your favorite cartridge. Two infinitely adjustable drums included. These Quick Change drums will accurately and reliably drop charges from 1 to 80 grains of powder.​
  • Case actuated; never spill a charge.
  • Exclusive elastomer wiper prevents powder shearing, works great with difficult metering extruded powders.
  • Machined body with labyrinth groove mates to the precision molded nylon drums providing a leak free fit with the finest powders.
  • Drum is actuated by a steel sector and pinion gear train.
  • Quick-change hopper has on/off valve to quickly change powders.
  • Sleek modern design, all gears springs and levers inside the die cast housing.
  • Features red anodized swivel adapter, makes adjusting and moving measure fast and convenient. Also provides clearance for the longest reloading dies.
0004804_deluxe-auto-drum-powder-measure_550.jpeg
Click to expand...

Just received my Deluxe Auto-Drum Update Kit and installed the kit on the Auto-Drum. Have not installed it on the press yet. One thing I just noticed and I am not sure how if I will like is that the Auto-Drum is now free to swivel when installed on the press. The old style was held in place my the adapter when you tightened it, that is no longer the case. Will install and see what happens. Do like the size of the new swivel adapter as it is much easer to turn.
 
curlysir said:
I just noticed and I am not sure how if I will like is that the Auto-Drum is now free to swivel when installed on the press.
Click to expand...
I think of that as a major plus as it makes it easier to move it to the best orientation to clean everything else, without a lot of trial and error, and to watch for full rotation
 
curlysir said:
Just received my Deluxe Auto-Drum Update Kit and installed the kit on the Auto-Drum. Have not installed it on the press yet. One thing I just noticed and I am not sure how if I will like is that the Auto-Drum is now free to swivel when installed on the press. The old style was held in place my the adapter when you tightened it, that is no longer the case. Will install and see what happens. Do like the size of the new swivel adapter as it is much easer to turn.
Click to expand...


Follow up to my previous post. Went to install the update kit on another Auto-Drum and when taking apart this piece fell out. It was not on the other Auto-Drum. Checked my Other Auto-Drums and discovered this part was on the newer Auto-Drums that I have and missing on the older ones. I installed the update kit on this Auto-Drum and with this part in place the Auto-Drum will stay in place but the Swivel Adapter is somewhat hard to turn. Checked my spare parts and this part is in the Auto Drum Mold Parts and is called an Orientation Lock. Will install on the other Auto-Drum as it does keep the Auto-Drum from rotating freely. It will still rotate with this in place but there is some friction to keep it in place.




IMG_4077.JPG
 
Last edited:
9mmepiphany said:
I think of that as a major plus as it makes it easier to move it to the best orientation to clean everything else, without a lot of trial and error, and to watch for full rotation
Click to expand...
After I installed the missing part on the Auto-Drum and installed the Update Kit I installed the Auto-Drum on the press. It will rotate freely but not free enough to rotate on its own. The Swivel Adapter takes a little effort to turn with the missing part but not enough to be a big deal, it is a big improvement over the old style Swivel Adapter. Like it so far.
 
Has anybody come up with a solution for stabilizing the inline bullet feeder magazine on the inline bullet feeder? That is the major problem/annoyance I have with the inline bullet feeder, I do not like the way it "wobbles" when setting on the bullet feeder die. I like the way the Inline Single Bullet Feed Tube sets on the die and use it most of the time.
 
curlysir said:
Has anybody come up with a solution for stabilizing the inline bullet feeder magazine on the inline bullet feeder?
Click to expand...
That's an issue Calvin and I have discussed already and we brainstormed some initial ideas to stabilize the magazine "wobble" so it's in the works.

FYI, magazine tube length was load tested at different lengths and production length was what was deemed to be more stable than longer lengths.

If anyone has any ideas, I am sure Lee Precision is all ears. :)
 
vepr12 said:
Yes, could you please request that Lee reimagine their spline die wrench, it feels like a cruel joke when using it.
Click to expand...

Get you a set of these. Much better than the Lee Ring Wrench. Can be bought from Amazon or Lowes's as a set for around $11.

The 1/2" fits the Lee Rings.

Locknut Wrench Kit includes one each: 1/2 in. and 3/4 in.

Gardner Bender designed the innovative locknut wrench to end frustration. Specifically developed for tightening and loosening locknuts this wrench features a thin profile that makes those normally tight spaces a thing of the past. It can be used to loosen or tighten a locknut by rotating the...
www.gardnerbender.com www.gardnerbender.com



GB Wrench.jpg
 
Last edited:
I have those and they work well. We should not need to buy other products to one of Lee's main selling points without disdain.
All that is needed is something that fits the hand, not just our busted fingers and fit within the tool storage stations on their presses.
 
curlysir said:
Get you a set of these. Much better than the Lee Ring Wrench. Can be bought from Amazon or Lowes's as a set for around $11.

The 1/2" fits the Lee Rings.

Locknut Wrench Kit includes one each: 1/2 in. and 3/4 in.

Gardner Bender designed the innovative locknut wrench to end frustration. Specifically developed for tightening and loosening locknuts this wrench features a thin profile that makes those normally tight spaces a thing of the past. It can be used to loosen or tighten a locknut by rotating the...
www.gardnerbender.com www.gardnerbender.com
Click to expand...

+1 on having them! They are great for my arthritic hands!!! Got mine quite awhile ago from Lowe's. Really glad I did!!!
 
Something Lee could easily develop and would help sell more of their Load All-II, would be a lead shot pot.
Lead shot is almost unobtainium at retail store and probably the main reason it's often overlooked with reloaders.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

D
Lee 6000 Personal Experience
2 3
Replies
54
Views
3K
9mmepiphany
9mmepiphany
LiveLife
Myth Confirming - Sorting Brass for More Consistent OAL on Progressive Press
Replies
16
Views
704
AJC1
AJC1
GW Staar
Coupling a 3D case feeder to a Lee Pro 6000
Replies
8
Views
713
RightAngle
R
LiveLife
New Lee inline bullet feeder/rotary magazine for SPP/Pro 6000 - Beta testing
2 3 4 5 6
Replies
135
Views
11K
Gillie Dog
Gillie Dog
LiveLife
  • Locked
What works for you?
Replies
4
Views
453
1SOW
1
Back
Top