Pacific Deluxe Pro Reloading Press

[timboslice]

Hi folks,

I bought a Pacific Deluxe Pro reloading press a few months ago for $50 and couldn't pass it up. When I created my reloading bench, I set it up and realized there is a ton of slop in the handle and the ram also has a bit of back and forth movement as you extend it upwards. I haven't taken it apart, or tightened any bolts, etc but I am fairly sure I can get rid of the slop in the handle and linkage fairly easily. But the movement in the ram is concerning; it's not a excessive but its to the point that it makes me wonder if it will provide consistent loads. This is an old press and I get that it's probably been used and abused a lot over the years, but is there any way I can remove/reduce the movement? I would think getting another ram would take care of any issues, but then you have the issue of finding the ram; and then on top of that, if the sleeve it rides in is hollowed out then I feel like I am out of luck. Anyway, just wanted to see if there are any folks with more experience than me that could give their 2 cents on the matter.

[John Wayne]

So they made that press a long time and as I recall (may be wrong) you had to buy the ram specific to the caliber. I would doubt that ram has wallowed out your press. Most likely manufacturing tolerance changed over time. Or, others like CH4D offer a ram that will allow you to use regular style shell holder like RCBS and Lymans. It may be an aftermarket ram by anyone? If you could accurately measure that hole and then talk to CH perhaps. You can shim the handle with washers. I would think someone will be along more knowledgeable than I. If not in a week or so post your question under "Reloading Equipment"
JW

[timboslice]

Hey, sorry for the lengthy delay. I have seen a few Pacific presses that had a fixed caliber rams; the ram on mine must be aftermarket because I can swap the shell holders after turning out a small set screw with an Allen key but the ram does not have any manufacturers markings. I will swing this by the folks in Reloading Equipment to see if anyone has additional input.

Thanks a bunch!