Lee Classic Turret Press tune up, maintenance and lube...primer lever fix!
Vložit
- čas přidán 25. 08. 2024
- In this video I will share my ideas on cleaning, lubrication, spare parts and adjustments for the Lee Classic turret press. We'll remove the ram, and I'll show you a fix for the primer lever catching on shell holder problem... click "show more" for links to parts.
***UPDATE***Made a short video to explain better how to manipulate the linkage to get enough play to separate the levers from the ram.
• More press disassembly...
Press parts: leeprecision.com/parts/reloading-presses/turret-press/classic-turret-press-parts
Shell holder springs: leeprecision.c...
Auto index clamp: leeprecision.c...
Square ratchet bushing: leeprecision.c...
Wiper for auto disk powder measures: leeprecision.co...
Lee safety prime return spring (recommended by viewer): leeprecision.c...
Graphite lube: www.homedepot....
I know this is an old release but I just committed myself to reloading and began looking for more content about the turret press. Yours was one of the first I found. I then located and bought a LEE Classic Turret Press and looked at MUUUCH more content about reloading in general and the LEE Turret Press in particular. I again found your content to be the most straight-forward and to the point. I deeply regret not finding you four years ago when you were "hobbying out" those powder measure stands. That is something I have not seen in any of the other channels even today. This particular episode about maintenance is your best, ever!! The old saying that you never know how something works until you and successfully take it apart, do maintenance and successfully put it back together - is absolutely true. I learned more in this video than a 100 others. Thank you. You gained a subscription plus my heartfelt thanks.
Thank you for one of the nicest comments Ive had! The Lee Turret press is hard to beat in my opinion. My last video I tested it for the quality of the ammunition using rifle rounds and it produced the same quality as a RockChucker single stage. I have gone back to using it for more than pistol rounds now, Its just too efficient. Ive thought about updating this video but honestly, its still pretty good. Sorry you missed out on the powder stands. I made hundreds of them...labor of love. It got to be too much and then the new administration changed PayPal tax reporting and that was the final straw. To continue I would have had to create a business with its own separate books and that was beyond my scope. Thanks for the Sub. If your new to reloading, I have a 4 part series on Rumble with lots of basics, minimal tools, theory, powders interpreting load data etc. rumble.com/v1n15qs-minimalist-reloading-for-the-beginner-using-the-lee-hand-press.-part-1.html Thanks, let me know if I can be of help.
@@TreeTopFlier You're welcome. This video went into my save files and will be used as my reference video when I do maintenance. I will begin my reloading with .30 M1 Carbine rounds, so I might be reaching out for advice.
@@waynekitt6770 happy to help if I can!
I’m late to this party, but want to thank you for a really excellent video! Your presentation is concise, well-spoken, and to the point. My wonderful old Classic Turret press is soon going to be treated to a tune-up based on the process and techniques you outlined here.
I just found your channel and am really enjoying your content. 👍
Thank you. Hope it makes it easy for you to get the most out of your press... Happy reloading.
Thanks so much for this video. I have fought with my primer feeder for years and decided that dropping 10 primers per 100 on the floor was the best I could do. Setting the height correctly solved my problem!
Oh, that's great! The system has and continues to be problematic
About a year ago I moved down to the coast and when I recently unpacked my Lee Classic turret press I discovered it all rusted up. I'll was thinking of throwing it out until I discovered your video. Much appreciated!
So glad you got some use out of this video. If it helps you can go to Lee's web site and under the Classic Turret press page there is a link for parts "here" That will take you to all the available parts for the press. You can practically build one from scratch. The turret housing may be hard to clean up so you could replace that easily. Thanks for watching and good luck.
I've had my Classic Turret and used it for a good 2.5 years without doing this...I just did this today and holy cow what a difference! Thank you for your video!
Wow great comment, you made my day!
Hey TreeTop, I recently bought a Lee four hole turret press. Today I followed your video step by step, and took it apart, greased and reassembled it. It operates MUCH more smoothly now. Thanks!
Hey thats great. Glad you were able to find use with it.
5 years later and still a great video. Glad I came across this as I just got my Turret press this last weekend. Waiting on primers powder and bullets to start reloading 9mm, .40 S&W, and .380.
Great! Thanks for watching. Good luck in your reloading.
Out of the thousands videos on YT this is one the best....Thanks for sharing!
+DON C Thank you sir.
OUTSTANDING video! Lee Precision should put your video on their website instead of their abbreviated ones!
Im not sure Lee likes the way I use some of their products LOL. They are aware of my channel and have only commented on one of my videos. Im a fan but not a fan boy, if you get my drift.
An absolutely superb video! While researching the turret press for a purchase consideration I stumbled across your video. As a result I placed an order and will now be ready for an initial setup that will insure optimal performance thanks to you! Best wishes for your continued success!
What a nice comment, thank you for taking the time to give me feedback. I just released another video where I compare the LCT to a single stage press on a full size cartridge. The LCT is fantastic. After the last video I will always recommend it as first press for new loaders. If I could only own 1 press it would be the LCT.
This is a great and comprehensive tutorial on maintaining and improving the Lee Classic cast turret press. Mine is due to be "overhauled" because of a move and this video will serve as the guide to getting it in better than new condition. Very well explained with details included. Thank you for posting this video!
One of the most detailed videos I've ever seen on CZcams. You must be an engineer.
I was an aircraft mechanic :-) thanks for watching, hope it helps.
Outstanding video. I've learned reloading with my Lee single stage press and asked for an received the Classic Turret Press from Santa this past Christmas. Your suggestions will greatly help my set up and maintenance of my new tool. Stay safe, be well, and FRONT SIGHT!!!!
+mutineer lpm I predict that you will like your new press. Thanks for watching!
Really excellent video! I may have to go buy a Lee Turret press. Seriously well done video with all really good concise clear instruction. Lee needs to hire you to promote their presses!
Thank you, what a nice comment!
Very clever powder drop. Thanks for all the info. Well done. Instead of a piece of electrical tape for the Index Rod I used a round felt pad. They come in various sizes and are about 1/8 inch thick. They are used for the bottom of chair feet.
Thanks for watching. I've since gone to using a little silicone stick on bumper stop. Anything to stop the noise LOL.
Thanks for your video, it showed me what was wrong with my new classic torrent press. The ram was 1/2 round off and the top part which affects timing could be turned with your fingers. I fixed the problem. Thanks again
Thats great, glad you got some usefulness out of it. Its a little older now but still has good info.
I got so frustrated with my Lee Classic 4 hole turret press I made it into a manual indexing press. But now that you have shown some of these tips on smoothing it out and disassembly, I'm going to try one more time to make it a reliable auto-indexing turret. Many thanks!
+Michael McNamara It would be awesome if something you saw here could help you get it going again...that's what its all about! Please come back and share your experience. Feel free to hit me up if you need help, I'll at least give it a try.
+TreeTopFlier Will do. I had to fly out of town unexpectedly for a family emergency. But before I left town, I checked the shell holder. It has a bit of play in it, which explains why primers were seating a tad high on one corner at times -- with pressure the shell holder shifts a couple millimeters resulting in uneven pressure pushing the primer into the cup. When I get home I'll order a replacement circlip spring that holds the shell holder in place -- I think it is worn out after 6 years. I also had no file that fit, but I did work 300 grit sandpaper in the ram slot and large prime arm surfaces of my LEE single stage classic cast press, and now the large primer arm doesn't stick as much -- though I need to get dry lube you suggested for a final cure. Again, you made me start thinking of fixes, for which I am grateful.
+Michael McNamara Hope the family issue works out ok. Glad you were able to get ideas from the video...Maybe that spring clip will help with your primer issues. If your press is one with the adjustable head on the ram, tuning that may help as well. Good luck.
I totally agree with your word "sacrifical" part for indexing . ....The press is actually very functional and simple to use.... thanks for sharing.
Soooo, a year into owning my turret press, I rewatched this video and decided I needed to run the maintenance described. EVERYONE NEEDS TO WATCH THE ADDITIONAL VIDEO(see below) TREETOPFLIER DID EXPLAINING HOW YOU NEED TO TAP ON THE LINKAGE PIN TO FREE THE ARMS FROM THE RAM. Once I did this the arms did release and everything worked out as shown in this video. Currently with the Motor City at 5 degrees, looked like a good time to clean/lube the press and start cranking out some rounds. Again, excellent video...Check Six and Front Sight!!!
Thats awesome! Thanks for coming back and letting everyone know.
Thanks - gonna have to try some of that on my press. Another spare part that I have needed once so far is the internal spring inside the primer applicator (or whatever the correct term is for the gizmo on the end of the arm that you push). It is a super thin spring and is responsible for resetting the mechanism for the next primer. You *can* still use it without the spring, but requires a lot of extra futzing to get it to reset. Also, despite the prices listed on Lee's site - if you load up your cart and then go to check out - the cost for each item goes to $0 and you only pay shipping. $5 or so seems to be the minimum and it does go up from there - so my advice is to load up your cart with a bunch of spare parts and see what the shipping works out to rather than placing several orders. I have also read that Lee (and others) will ship you many of the small parts at no charge at all if you call them up when you have a broken or missing part.
Thanks for the contribution, I added the spring to the parts list in the description.
I have owned a Lee CT Press for about 6 years and have loaded several hundred rifle and handgun cartridges on it. The only issue I have had with it is where the large pins engage the bottom of the ram. As you mentioned, the end of the pins are open to the inside of the ram and the spent primers and abrasive detritus that is collected below. I dismantled my press and manufactured a brass sleeve for the gunk to pass through and keep the pivot points isolated. This brass sleeve was made from a .303 British case and inserted with a slight press fit from the top. I have had no issues since. I contacted Lee about maybe making a sleeve from the same material as the case feed tubes to include on future presses for this isolation purpose. I don't know what they did with my info, if anything. The only weak point on an otherwise very well made press. To silence the index rod ringing sound, I placed a coil spring about .375" in diameter and .625" tall on top of the rod before installing the turret. This keeps the rod from hopping and making the undesirable ring.
Thanks for sharing.
Great tips thanks, Lee doesn't budge for new ideas IMO. They are rock solid, ever forward for good or bad.
You have inspired me to clean my Lee Classic Turret Deluxe that I have had for 10 years now that is in desperate need of a cleaning
the drum powder measure is very precise I load 3006 and it works just fine. the little plastic pieces for the indexing get worn out quickly. I heated up a worn out one with my lighter and installed it to backup a new one. it doesn't slip now. a tie wrap around the round part helps hold it together.
Just wanted to drop a note of thanks. I followed along and did a thorough cleaning and regreasing of my press. Saiving this for later as well. Thanks for the information.
Excellent how-to's and suggestions. I will put these into practice. Good for the equipment and those boring down times when supplies run low! Thanks for the work on this.
Thanks for watching, its a labor of love.
Excellent vid! will now examine my primer lever to diagnose why it hits the notch in the ram and knocks the primer out of its cup 👍
This is an older video but it still should help locate the problem.
I used lithium grease on the edge of the turret carriage, not very much though later I used never cease. I lapped the primer arms lightly both sides,as well as diamond filing the edge of the piston where the primer arm travels ,there were a couple factory burrs there. Great tips thanks
At first glance, I figured that powder measure stand was something you bought. Great idea!
Thanks, I have since built a new swing arm that lets me mount a Hornady lock and load powder measure or any other threaded type. Really adds a nice feature to the Turret press.
Glad to SEE THAT I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH OCD'S,WHEN IT COMES TO MAINTENANCE!GOOD JOB!
OCD...well maybe just a little lol. Thanks for watching!
I'm new at reloading and I think this is the 163rd video I've watched thus far. One of the BETTER ones mind you! I have the old 3 hole Lee press with the hex ratchet auto index but will upgrade to the 4 hole soon.
Good luck with your project, thanks for watching!
That powder adapter for the drum is brilliant! I need to make one myself now.
I used to sell them but it got to be too much for a garage shop, that and Biden wanting reporting on minor paypal transactions. No longer worth it.
@@TreeTopFlier aw that sucks. I had my fair share of issues using PayPal also.
This is ABSOLUTELY the best tips/tricks video out there for the LCT. It should have way more views than it does. You gave me a couple ideas for my pro 1000, Thank You.
Wow, that's high praise, Thank you for taking the time to let me know...gives me encouragement for future projects!
Great video .there are some issues with the Lee press.if you maintain the press it works for ever.just like you showed it does need some maintence. I don't like to use heavy grease ,it draws dirt,I use a light lube spray and spray and wipe. Good info on the primer getting stuck.on my next cleaning I will make the repair,thanks
+Nick Luzzi Thanks for the comment and for watching, I hope you can use some of the info.
The issue I had, said had. Was blowing out not the black plastic cam(?) but the turret race, stantion mounting bolts. They are FYI . The bolt that anchors the plastic primer chute mounting pivot should be exchanged, post haste from a 1.5" to a 1- 5/8". This ultra experience reloader hits all the main points. Great and thanks for sharing your mechanical nomenclature, very articulate.
Thanks for the vids. Love our Lee Classic Turret press after watching your videos.
It really is a great press!
I only reload 9mm. My experience is that with a little bit care my rounds are very precise. Powder throw is constant 4,2gr. Seating depth varies but is generally between 29,50 and 29,55mm. I’m very satisfied with this press.
Nice! Most seating depth irregularities are caused by nose shape variance in projectiles not presses and dies. Thanks for watching.
Saw this video earlier this year and thought I have to follow this eventually. Press had gotten pretty tight and grinding this past week so I knew it was time. Laptop on loading bench I set off after this today. Project complete, press runs better than the day I unboxed it. The only caution I would suggest is the spray graphite - I clearly need practice spraying it as it was on a bit thick and the film was more of a coating that in areas where clearances are low it made fits a bit tight (ie: primer lever). I ended up having to scrape it off and then sand/polish the surface. Just practice and be careful with spray graphite - it's a liquid out of the can AND needs quite a while to dry.
As always, an outstanding video and great info. The supp video on taking the ram out was excellent as well. Keep them coming TT.
Wow that's great news! I'm glad you were able to use this video to get your press running smooth. Happy reloading, stay safe.
The indexing rod driven by that cheap plastic square piece is an easy fix. with my press I got a square nut and reshaped the round threaded hole with a dremel and then polished it out, also polished the indexing rod on a buffing wheel, then lubed it up with some Molybdenum disulfide grease, the press is incredibly smooth and no more indexing issues.
Just bought a classic turret press. This is very helpful!
Glad you got some use from the video.
Great video. Thanks for tips about replacement parts as well.
A word of caution - might be careful with Brake Cleaner or Carb Cleaner near the painted/powder coated parts. I've had it take the finish off other presses with accidental over spray.
+Matt P Good point, about the brake cleaner...I haven't had a problem with it on paint, it evaporates so fast I don't think it has time to penetrate but better safe than sorry. Thanks for watching!
Nice!! Just setting up my new press and had a major primer arm sticking problem. Took your advice and now it's running slicker than deer guts on a doorknob. Subscribed!! Good job my friend!
Hey thats great to hear, Im glad you got some use from it. Thanks for watching!
Wonderful video. Great ideas presented in a conversational, easy-to- follow, easy-to-use format. Thanks!
+Jcp Rio Thank you sir, hope you get some use out of it.
Awesome video. I've been using one for years and always wondered about those captive linkage studs.. I would just spray Triflow up in there.. now I'll use grease. Thanks!
Hope it helps. I like grease the best, canbe a little messy but the ram is smooth with a hydraulic strut like feel.
I really enjoy my LCTP. I've never had an issue with the actual press that wasn't direct operator error. I recently banged out 500 rounds of beautiful 147gr 300 Blackout training ammo without issue.
I did have an issue with the auto disk powder measurer leaking WIN296 and CFE pistol. After watching a YT video showing how to fix the issue by equally shaving down the side fins (that bracket the auto disk) a few millimeters with a flat file until the leaking stopped. Perfect.
Some reload to shoot. I shoot to reload. It's my stationary hobby.
I do agree that any press needs to be periodically cleaned and lubricated for optimum performance.
Great video! Good camera work and good editing. On the safety prime height adjustment, I had to raise mine higher to get what looks to be the same result as you. Took me a long time to figure that out, I had just about given up on the safety prime on this press, even though it had worked well on my old Challenger press.I have a Dillon 550, which I use for all my semi-auto ammo, but I use the LCT for all my rifle and revolver ammo. I also use it for decapping all my brass before wet tumbling, so every piece of brass I use goes through the LCT at least once.
Just got my Classic Turret. Thanks for a concise video; refreshing and instructional.
Thanks for the nice comment. Feel free to hit me up if you have any questions with your new press.
TreeTopFlier like your video what do you have on your press to stop indexing rod from moving
Not sure what your referring too. The only thing that's different with the indexing rod from stock is that I put a piece of tape under it so it dampens the sound as the rod taps up and down on the base plate.
I see that watched your video again was looking for some idea of a washer of some sort to stop the indexing rod on bottom from moving to far to one side keeping the rod centered
Thanks this is excellent, a few thoughts from experience with this Press.
It’s high time Lee sorted out the priming issues. The Famous stuck primer arm and tied up shell holder , should be a thing of the past.
That problem cost me a Primer arm assembly and a great deal of frustration.
Once you get that binding the whole loading process is screwed. If your using the drum type measure , there’s tremendous pressure placed on that too.
Number 2 shell holders are one of the main culprits in locking up the primer assembly. One of those cost me quite a few replacement parts. I no longer use them at all.
Replace with number 3, you’ll never have that primer binding issue, once you do the ram filing which you demonstrated.
No 3’s work great, also if your loading 8 m Mauser, use only no 3 shell holders, some of those cases don’t always fit correctly in no 2. With the no 3 you have no priming setting issues. Works a dream.
That primer sticking issue is a major failing of this press.
Lee really needs to sort that out.
I followed all your instructions and thankfully no more issues and problems.
After watching your videos on the Lee classic turret press, I ordered one. I will set it up using your recommendations. Thank you for this information.
Awesome maintenance tips. I plan to get into reloading and have looked at this press. I am all in now! Thank you.
I think this press is a really good place to start. Lots of options out there that you can move into later but this options gives you a nice blend of hands on with higher production rates. Good luck and thanks for watching!
If I could only have one press, it would be this one.
***UPDATE***Made a short video to explain better how to manipulate the linkage to get enough play to separate the levers from the ram.
czcams.com/video/gfaezU3xMxc/video.html
+TreeTopFlier this first video is one of the finest on youtube, .. thanks for making it .. i will go checkout the second video too... my press is in the mail on the way to me now. i like to disassemble and lube everything , even new stuff, before use.. your attention to the primer feed was awesome
+inspectyerbooty Thanks so much for the comment. I hope you like your press...let me know If you need any help.
TreeTopFlier
got my press today, what a disappointment... all 4 turret holes have messed up threads and chips and missing threads and sharp edges and ... so sad,,, when you operate the ram it sounds like a zip-tie sound like when you tighten it... due to the radial grooves around the circumference of the ram.. wow, factory seconds or missed a recall notice or lathe worker at LEE was asleep or angry at the company, quality control missed this unit , should of scraped it and re-melted it.... even looks like the turret will eat up all the die rubber washers due to the rough metal and sharp edges at the top near the thread-in points... total embarrassment of a press for lee classic 4 hole turret press.. i left my personal review and pictures of the 4 hole turret threads and ram garbage on Amazon .ca .. i doubt i will use it ...also now i'm out all the money i spent getting dies and accessories beforehand ..total wasted near $ 300
+inspectyerbooty Wow that's bad news, sorry you had issues. I finally found the photos you posted and something is clearly wrong. I think that rig has been used or something. The turret you showed with the thread problems has a hole bored in the center and it and looks worn...Turrets don't have holes except for the dies. You should return it! The threads you showed looked pretty bad. I have looked at mine and some of the threads are a little rough. Cast aluminum is grainy and a little hard to cut course threads in with out some pulling. In my case it doesn't effect operation.
As for the ram, I had one on my single stage press that was a little rough initially but after running it a little with light oil it broke in and it smoothed out pretty quick. Its now real smooth with axle grease. Bottom line it looks like you either got a used/abused and returned one or a poorly refurbished one and should be returned. I wish you luck.
TreeTopFlier
hi,... yeah, it dawned on me a little latter that mine had some kinda hole in the turret that every picture on the internet did not have ... just my luck... but as far as i remember the box had factory original staples sealing it shut and the only weirdness that struck me was a partially ripped off label on the box... other than that it was described by and sold by amazon .ca as a new article, not refurbed , not open box or returned, i got lied to by someone or someone fulfilled amazons order with a bait and switch, without amazons knowing they were going to ripp me off... later i saw refurbed presses on LEE's website going for 80 bucks.. gets me thinking bait and switch and breaking laws for profit at my expense... i wrote LEE a customer inquiry on their website email form and asked if it was a bad batch or possibly time to institute a [small] recall notice if indeed i was not lied to and scammed on purpose... still waiting.. thanks for your reply... your nickname makes me think of bush pilots .. where'd you get it ;-)
I have found when setting primers giving the shell casing just a little twist when you first start to set it allows everything to get centered up and it goes right in really easy. especially on 223. bigger cases don't seem to have the problem.
Got one coming. Going to feed it sized, primed brass. Will be smooth running.
Nice detailed video. For lubrications have you ever tried a product “White Lightning Clean Ride”? It is a wax based lube they use on bicycle chains. You put it on with your fingers and it dry into a light powder that you then rub off. It’s very slippery and the big benefit is that it is completely dry and won’t gunk up anything when you spill a little powder on it or when you deprime cases and some residue falls out. You can just blow it off with a little air. I’ve been using it and it work very well. The turrets spin very nicely.
Actually, I have tried White Lightning. I use it on my mountain bike. It works and it is a matter of preference. I Use grease, and yes it does get grimy after a while but I just wipe it off and re apply. I just like the grease because I like the hydraulic viscus feel it gives to the operation. Thanks for commenting.
TreeTopFlier no problem. Just like to help another reloaded.
As I recall, Lee instructions mention to lube linkage with oil. That means lots of drips and relubes. I use auto bearing grease and work it into inside holes with a Q-tip and well on bolts in the linkage as well as thing grease application to the ram. After that linkage is super smooth and low wear. On the ram, I'll wipe down a bit once a month and add a fresh smear of grease all over and wipe off access after a few cycles. works great for years!
Informative video. I learned a lot, especially about adjusting the primer arm on my Lee Turret press. I was having problems with priming. Good now, Thanks.
Thats great, glad you got some use out of it!
Thanks so much for the great video! Good camera work, and very well thought out. Will be doing the takedown and cleaning this weekend! Really appreciate all the information. Happy shooting.
+Kenenth Kozak What a nice thing to say, thanks! Some folks have had a little trouble getting the levers loose from the ram. I made a short video to clarify and add more detail on how to get the clearance you need to separate the ram. czcams.com/video/gfaezU3xMxc/video.html
I would be interested in your feedback after you try some of these things. Thanks.
Excellent advice.
The Safety Primer is the biggest issue I have with my Turret press. I was going to comment on the primer head return spring getting weak, and then I noticed the link for the Gen 2 spring. I had no idea there was an upgrade. I definitely need to get some of those. Lee sent me a replacement head last year and it has the Gen 1 spring. You'd think that it would have been updated. The ram removal tutorial is also going to be useful, because I can tighten my ram head roughly another 1/2 turn, so I think they may have installed it improperly. That, or it's how the threads were cut (they threads out, and can be replaced).
The safety prime is probably the worst thing about these presses. It is convenient, but If everything isnt just right it can really be frustrating. Unfortunately the new version of the safety prime isnt an improvement in my view.
I finally got around to removing my ram (a bit of a pain on a reasonably new press), and my suspicion was correct. Lee installed the ram backwards. Now the primer arm doesn't move without prying it a little. Thanks again.
Mines in the mail. Should receive it tomorrow!
It's a great press and if you do your part it can make great ammo.
Great vid , love my Lee turret press , I have had other major brand presses in the past , the Lee turret I have enjoyed the most . Again great vid , good tips .
Great video, TreeTop! I really like the extent of detail you put into your videos. Some great tips and maintenance procedures. And special thanks for the adjustment process and ideas. I always enjoy your videos. Keep them coming!
+KSFWG Thanks for the kind words. I remember way back, you saying that you bought a turret press and were planning on setting up a loading room. I hope there's something in this video you can use on your own gear. I like the LCTP but as with most things it can use a little fine tuning. Always appreciate your support.
Yes, there is definitely quite a bit that I will use from now on. Yes, I have a LCTP and I enjoy it. I always learn a new tip or trick from your reloading videos. Thank you, again, I appreciate it.
I used some lee case lube on the shaft of the ram I found this really effective.
The 1st video iv seen detailed. I hope you sent this video to lee. Great video
what a awesome video!!! thanks so much for sharing! I just wish I had found it when you first put it out...
Better late than never LOL
Nice job. Great info! Thanks for taking the time to make the video.
Its a little older but It still works.
I've loaded many thousands of rounds on the classic turret, so I was apprehensive of getting anything of significance from this video. However, once I complete the current batch I'm working on I will follow most of your video tutorial to give mine a proper tune-up. Thank you for the excellent how to
Thanks for watching, I hope it works for you.
It helped greatly, just completed task. Thanks again
Thats rewarding to know. Thanks!
Great job video explains maintenance not covered on hundreds of lee reloading videos on you tube
+Retiredin Awesome, thanks! I hope it's something you can use.
+TreeTopFlier yes most certainly keep up the great work !!
EXCELLENT VIDEO!! I Love my LCT press, no doubt it's the greatest bang for your buck. I have mine setup with the Inline Fab case ejector system and a Hornady bullet feeder die, which has doubled my production speed. I would recommend adding the safety prime trigger return spring to your spare parts, had to cannibalize the one from my large primer trigger. Again great video!
+Ritch Kiser Thanks, that's a great Idea on the return spring, I added it to the list.
I like your set up. Just got that press and have that same powder Measure and bought the steel to make that.
Cool, good luck with the project
I have the same press as you and had the same problem with the small primer arm also. I put a strip of tape over the two notches and it allowed the primer arm to lift up early so the primer cup did not hit the shell holder. I will give your solution a try.
VERY well explained! Great video! Complete TU!
Thank you!
One of the best videos great detail Lee should pay you THANKS
Very nice of you to say...Thanks.
Can you do a video on your bracket and mount for the powder measure? That is great! It caught my eye right away and I was frantically looking to buy one! I then watched the video...... 🤪
Hey, thanks for the nice comment. Here is the video about the stand. czcams.com/video/p9IttaJGv4Y/video.html
Just a great video that I've saved in my favorites. I have been looking at buying this press for awhile now and your video was very informative. I will be ordering this press soon. Just waiting on a good sale now!
Thank you, Im glad you found it useful.
Thanks! I just picked up the same press from a garage sale
Hope you enjoy it!
Great video on a great press. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Thank you!
those shoulder pins you point out at 6:42,in the base body. Had one of mine FALL OUT, Several Times. Lee's answer was send it back for service. that was a NO GO, i used a 3/4" fender washer marked it so it over lapped the pin by 1/4" ,drilled and tapped thr base for a 10/24 machine screw and fixed it.pin no longer falls out.
Great Video, I don't know how I hadn't found you yet. Thank you
Nathan
Very nice of you to say, thank you!
Saved - thank you so much!
Glad it helped!
I had a problem with the ratchet housing years ago. The issue was that the screw that holds it together is screwed into the plastic threads of the housing itself. This resulted in indexing issues, as it was coming somewhat loose and the square ratchet needed replacement. I resolved this problem by purchasing a longer machine screw in the same size and using a nut and lock washer. I have spare square ratchets, but have never had to replace one, nor have I experienced any indexing problems since.
Thats a good fix. Sounds like your ratchet housing got stripped. They are inexpensive on the Lee web site. People dislike the plastic parts but when maintained the perform perfectly for years.
Thank you very much for this educational video. It sure is educational for me as I am thinking of buying a loader soon: I just haven`t made up my mind yet on which one to buy.
I have no clue, yet, on the different makes. I am trying to learn as much as possible on the different makes and models. I am planning on loading 9mm and 45 ACP ammo. then .223 and 22-250 rifle ammo. too.
I worked with equipment all my working life and maintenance is the key to trouble free operation of everything. I like know how t do this, before, I buy. Then I know what to expect.
Cheers and thanks again.
+Reg Sparkes Thanks I'm glad you liked it...sorry it ran a little long even after I cut it down. The turret press is a great Idea from Lee. It falls somewhere in between the single stage press and the progressive press. What I like about it is it retains the one cartridge at a time focus of the single stage press so you can feel the primer seat, bullet seat, pressure on the crimp etc. But it automates the next function so it is much faster. I can load 9mm and 45 plenty fast for me, where as, trying to load hand gun ammo on a single stage is the best argument for buying ammo.
I load 223 and large rifle on this press. The thing to know is, with the larger rifle cases the auto disk charging system (if you use it) with the double disk set tops out at around 41gr of powder. You should be fine to use on 22-250 if you wish to auto charge. If you go with the Lee stuff and have any questions I would be more than happy to help.
+TreeTopFlier
Thanks very much for this reply. This is helpful. SO if I but this Turret Press, then you feel it will serve me well ?
I am not a hunter, I only do target and plinking shooting. It's is just a recreational activity for me in using the calibers I mentioned.
+Reg Sparkes From what you've told me, I think this would be a great setup for you. You want to reload pistol so you will want the higher volume the turret press is capable of. It will handle rifle rounds with ease as well. You can buy extra turrets for about $10 ea and leave your dies for different calibers set up the way you want them. This makes going from one caliber to the next painless. This kit is a great place to start: www.titanreloading.com/kits/lee-classic-cast-turret-press-kit
If you go with Lee pistol dies spring for the Lee deluxe 4 die set so you get the crimp die. They are carbide and do a fantastic job. I've got a video on how to set them up.
You will want to add the double disk set for the auto disk powder measurer If you want to auto charge your rifle cases.
You will want a bullet puller and a digital scale to measure powder.
This is a great entry point and may be the last press you need or want. If you get into the sport more, this kit will help you decide if you want to head down a different path in the future. Such as, ultra high end precision or high volume automation. Hope this helps, and good luck. TTF
Amazing attention to detail here! Your taking a lot of steps I think Lee skipped, but at the same time would have raised up costs.
Thank you, very kind of you to say.
Thank you- Thank you- Thank you!
You are so welcome!
I've got one of these coming soon! Thanks so much for your video. Lookimg forward to putting your tips to use!
thank you for this info. Received my Classic turret yesterday and this video was great!!!
+Jerry potts Glad you liked the video, you are going to love your press.
Thanks for watching.
+TreeTopFlier Played with it setting up dies and than later added a piece of velco strip with a sticky back under the indexing rod. It got a lot quieter not that it was that loud. but like you said gets annoying. Again thanks for video a lot tips you gave gives insight to small problems.. Also I have the lee auto drum powder measure.
+Jerry potts Good idea with the Velcro has even more cushion than tape. I'm curious how accurate that auto drum is...I built the arm over my press to load larger calibers and to isolate the powder from that action of the press for more accurate work. In my experience the key to accuracy with any of these measures is to be consistent with the way you operate them. If they are on the turret take each drop after a complete rotation of the turret. A static drop will not reflect the agitation and settling the press activity will create. Happy reloading. Hit me up if you need anything.
Good tip about the safety prime I will check it out that drives me crazy to drop those primers.
The new auto drum powder is awesome those auto disks are a pain in arse good video liked and subbed
I made my own moly-graph grease using Red n Tacky mixed with molybdenum and graphite.
It’s some nasty stuff but it sticks well to everything including me.
That will work, but it does sound a little messy.
@@TreeTopFlier it’s an absolute nightmare. It gets on everything and doesn’t come off. It’s also super black and everything it touches is now black and greasy.
Graphite power is so messy to begin with, add a sticky grease and it’s the worst.
Good video Tree Top. Had a lot of good info. Thanks
Thank you!
I know this is an old video, it is still very good knowledge!
I would like to add, DON'T USE Carburetor CLEANER! Carb cleaner leaves a film that will degrade any lube that is later applied.
Thanks, its still pretty good. The primer hanger adjustment is outdated because they use a different system now.
Thank you. I will order it today. Great videos by the way.
Some great info, looking at the Lee Turret. You may have answered some questions and concerns I've seen or read about. Thanks
I really like the classic turret press. It fits nicely between the single stage press and the progressive. Perfect for a moderate volume reloader. The new kit comes with the auto drum, an overall great tool (I have a video). The down side to the kit is the new redesigned safety prime dispensers. The older ones were far better. Thanks for watching.
From all that I've been seeing and hearing about it, that is the big downfall.
Very well done video. Thank you!
Amazingly good & helpful video!
Thank you.
Thank you for the very generous comment.
its a lot better if you use wettumbled cleaned and deprimed brass only. it wil keep ware and problems away,super video sir
Great video, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Outstanding sirjust wanted you to now Uncle Jim told me about your Channel great info sir
Excellent. Great tips and procedures.
Thanks for watching!
New user here, thanks, this is extremely helpful😀
That's awesome glad you liked, thanks for watching!
Thank you that was very informative.
Thanks for the great video. I just bought a Lee Classic Turret Press. This will help!
I have the same press and occasionally one or more dies will not line up properly with the ram (shell holder) so can replacing the index bushing solve this problem? I lubed the detent ball but I still have to move the turret plate sometimes by hand. This is the type of video Lee should have paid you to make; many more hand loaders would buy this press. You are a great man for helping us out. Great video!
It may be an index bushing. I think I am on my second one, so they last quite a while but if they start to round out, they will have trouble making the last part of the rotation. Also, a little lube on the indexing rod and the making sure the turret is not gummed up will help also. It may be worth making sure the turret ring/housing is centered on the three bolts holding it down. You can loosen the bolts, lock in the turret. Put a rifle cartridge like 223 in the shell holder and then run it into a full length sizing die. With it in this position tighten down the three bolts. This seems to center everything up nicely.