View Full Version : Problem with Lee 38 spcl dies in Dillon 550
robpete
09-08-2013, 12:51 AM
I was setting up my 550 to load 38 specials for the first time tonight. I faced one big problem....the dies seem to be to short. I was able to load 357 mag, but had to thread the dies down pretty much entirely. I think it's worth mentioning that I'm using the custom magnum toolhead(spacer was properly positioned). Is this a known problem with lee dies for longer cases and the 550?
I have the standard toolhead, but no problems with lee or lyman dies in 38 spl.
dudel
09-08-2013, 03:52 AM
Lee dies are shorter. For 45GAP, I had to screw the Lee dies so far down, that I had to put the locknut under the 550b tool head.
ku4hx
09-08-2013, 07:17 AM
Yep, as the saying goes ... "been there; done that." My fix is to never use the thicker Lee lock rings on any of my presses. When I got my RL550B I bought a bag full of their lock rings. Being thinner they have worked for me, but some Lee dies are just really short.
engineer401
09-08-2013, 12:25 PM
My fix was to buy Dillon or CH dies. I had the same problem with a Lee 223 crimp die. I sold it and bought a Dillon die as a replacement. My solution is not the cheapest but it is effective.
I never thought of placing the lock ring under the toolhead until someone here recommended it. I read or heard somewhere Lee is making longer dies. Lee can verify this for you.
I've had the same problem with the Lee seating die in my old Dillon 450. Like engineer401, I never thought about placing the lock ring under the die!
45-70 Chevroner
09-09-2013, 12:58 PM
Lee dies are shorter. For 45GAP, I had to screw the Lee dies so far down, that I had to put the locknut under the 550b tool head.
I did the same thing a long time ago. The lee pistol dies are a problem in the Dillon, but you can make them work. I solved the Lee 38 die problem though, I bought a Square Deal.
Djones
09-09-2013, 09:12 PM
38 spec with my RCBS cowboy dies and Dillon 650 I had to use dillon lock nuts. I was scared I wasn't going to be able to load the 500 brass and boolits I had ready to go! Everything worked out and I hope you to can figure out a solution.
robpete
09-09-2013, 11:04 PM
I just listed the Lee dies for sale(on here). I have a Dillon set on the way. Problem solved! Thanks everyone.
David2011
09-10-2013, 01:27 AM
Lee dies are shorter. For 45GAP, I had to screw the Lee dies so far down, that I had to put the locknut under the 550b tool head.
I did the same thing once a long time ago. It works.
David
Shiloh
09-10-2013, 11:24 AM
I just listed the Lee dies for sale(on here). I have a Dillon set on the way. Problem solved! Thanks everyone.
I went with Dillon's from the start. You'll like them.
Shiloh
Tatume
09-10-2013, 11:26 AM
Dillon knows about the thick locking ring on Lee dies and sells thin replacement locking rings. With them, Lee dies work just fine. I have them on three Dillon machines and have no problems with them.
robpete
09-10-2013, 08:51 PM
Dillon knows about the thick locking ring on Lee dies and sells thin replacement locking rings. With them, Lee dies work just fine. I have them on three Dillon machines and have no problems with them.
I used the thin rings and the dies were still so short that I couldn't fully resize a .357 case
I will add that my 45ACP dies are also Lee and they've always worked fine in the 550
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