Lyman 4500

[Mwilson0173]

So I purchased a 4500 a few months back from the bay. Put it back and just now got to set up and start fiddling with it. Noticed when trying to ratchet the plunger down it stops about a little more than 1/4 way down. Surely this isn't right. I've ordered new o-rings for it. Just wondering if this is the way it works or if something else i may need to look at. When it stops it stops. Iv looked to see if anyone else has had this issue on the forums and youtubed it also. Thanks in advance.

[zarrinvz24]

It should be able to go all the way down to the bottom. Check the threaded rod and ensure that the threads are ok. Could be someone damaged them trying to pry on it.

[C.F.Plinker]

Have you removed the plunger from the reservoir yet? You would be able to see what is causing the problem. It might even be full of lube.

[Walter Laich]

agree with ▲

I tear my previously owned items down to check that everything is working and clean it up.

this comes from my upbringing when I was taught, almost daily, that children in Europe were starving and to make-do with what we had

[Mwilson0173]

Have you removed the plunger from the reservoir yet? You would be able to see what is causing the problem. It might even be full of lube.

Yes I have disassembled it

[Mwilson0173]

Ok problem was found and a simple one at that. It had two plungers in it. The 2nd was almost to the bottom so thats what was stopping it from going down any further. Man do I feel embarrassed lol

[Alstep]

Who would ever expect to have 2 plungers. Strange!

[zarrinvz24]

That’s probably why it found it’s way onto the ‘bay!

[Mwilson0173]

Who would ever expect to have 2 plungers. Strange!

Alstep
I would have never thought that. When I was looking into the reservoir it honestly looked like that was the bottom. Never thought any different. Lol I do feel embarrassed about it.

[Mwilson0173]

That’s probably why it found it’s way onto the ‘bay!

Your probably 100% correct about that sir. I got it at a good price and it came with a free die and gas checks for different calibers.

[gwpercle]

Who would ever expect to have 2 plungers. Strange!

You have started powder coating , so you have a 4500 you don't need and you have a spare plunger ...
Where would you put the spare so it wouldn't get lost .... on the plunger rod !!!
Makes perfect sense to me and sounds like something I would do .
And if my kids were cleaning out and selling all my "stuff" they would be totally clueless as to what part went where ...
When you are assembling something a parts diagram (or shop manual) is more than helpful !
But I can easily see how that extra plunger got on the rod !
Gary