Lyman Mouldmaster problem

[glenkans]

Guys , I started casting again because the prices on bullets has gotten too expensive for me again. Did cast for many years and am somewhat familar with the ins and outs. My Mouldmaster mod. 61 was on the blink when I quit and just didn't get hot enough for me .Is there a problem with the thermostat on these or is the element a concern for me. Seems that if the element was broken, it wouldn't work at all. Anyone got any ideas on where I should look first.Thanks,Glen

[oneokie]

Remove the knob from the temp adjuster, remove the housing the temp dial is affixed to, (4? screws).

The thermostat should look similar to this
http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn16/oneokie/100_0228-1.jpg

The leaf attached to the top screw is most likely taken a "set" where it makes contact with the ceramic button in the center of the picture. Straightning that leaf can be a Royal PITA.

If you choose to remove the thermo assembly from the pot, you will have to totally disassemble the pot, as the lower attaching screw is not accessable otherwise. One could use a dremel tool or die grinder to cut a relief in the sheet metal housing in the area of the lower attaching screw. Use plenty of penetrating oil on those two screws before attempting to remove them. For several days if possible.

If those screws twist off, they are #10-32, as is the one that holds the bottom sheet metal to the pot.

If you have to remove the sheet metal housing around the pot, use a die grinder or cut-off disc to cut the metal straps that encircle the housing at top and bottom.
Large hose clamps can be used to replace the straps.

The screws that attach the power cord leads to the thermo are #6-32. Mica is used as isolator/insulation on the thermo bracket. Plan on replacing these 2 screws of you remove them.

Kings Kiln Repair in Missouri may have some repair parts. Google is your friend.

[runfiverun]

my lee acted like that and i had to adjust the contact points like the picture nolan put up.
it never went over 650 since day one. [didn't even know they were adjustable]
now i gotta watch the thermometer.

[shotman]

Trash it and get a Lee when it comes time for rebuild cost $10 for element and thermostat