Maintain your Reloading Press
Posted: Tue Feb 04, 2025 7:51 pm
How to Inspect and Maintain Your Reloading Press
Regular inspection and maintenance of your reloading press are crucial for ensuring safe and accurate ammunition production. This guide will walk you through the process of inspecting and maintaining your reloading press to keep it in top condition.
Inspection
Visual Examination
1. Thoroughly examine your press for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
2. Check all moving parts, including the ram, linkages, and primer feed system.
3. Inspect the shell holder and dies for proper fit and alignment.
Functional Check
1. Operate the press through its full range of motion, listening for any unusual sounds or feeling for any roughness.
2. Test the primer feed system to ensure smooth operation.
3. Check the turret or tool head (if applicable) for proper rotation and lockup.
Cleaning
Disassembly
1. Refer to your press’s manual for specific disassembly instructions.
2. Remove all removable parts, including the ram, linkages, and primer feed system.
Cleaning Process
1. Use a degreaser or solvent to remove old lubricant, dirt, and debris.
2. For stubborn buildup, use a combination of brake cleaner or purple power.
3. Clean all parts thoroughly, paying special attention to moving components.
Lubrication
Proper Lubrication Techniques
1. Apply a light coat of high-quality gun oil or grease to all moving parts.
2. Pay special attention to the ram, ensuring it’s well-lubricated.
3. Lubricate the turret where it slides in the body (for turret presses).
4. Apply lubricant to pivoting points and other moving parts.
Reassembly and Final Check
1. Carefully reassemble the press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Perform a final functional check to ensure smooth operation.
3. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment and function.
Maintenance Schedule
• For moderate use, perform a basic cleaning and lubrication every few months.
• Conduct a full tear-down and deep clean annually or after processing large volumes of ammunition.
• Always clean and lubricate your press after exposure to moisture or corrosive primers.
Additional Tips
• Keep your press covered when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
• Regularly blow out powder residue and debris with compressed air.
• Monitor your press for signs of wear over time, such as loosening of parts or decreased precision.
• If you notice any significant issues or wear, consider having your press professionally serviced or replaced.
By following these steps and maintaining a regular inspection and maintenance routine, you’ll ensure that your reloading press remains in excellent condition, providing you with years of safe and accurate ammunition production.
Regular inspection and maintenance of your reloading press are crucial for ensuring safe and accurate ammunition production. This guide will walk you through the process of inspecting and maintaining your reloading press to keep it in top condition.
Inspection
Visual Examination
1. Thoroughly examine your press for any signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
2. Check all moving parts, including the ram, linkages, and primer feed system.
3. Inspect the shell holder and dies for proper fit and alignment.
Functional Check
1. Operate the press through its full range of motion, listening for any unusual sounds or feeling for any roughness.
2. Test the primer feed system to ensure smooth operation.
3. Check the turret or tool head (if applicable) for proper rotation and lockup.
Cleaning
Disassembly
1. Refer to your press’s manual for specific disassembly instructions.
2. Remove all removable parts, including the ram, linkages, and primer feed system.
Cleaning Process
1. Use a degreaser or solvent to remove old lubricant, dirt, and debris.
2. For stubborn buildup, use a combination of brake cleaner or purple power.
3. Clean all parts thoroughly, paying special attention to moving components.
Lubrication
Proper Lubrication Techniques
1. Apply a light coat of high-quality gun oil or grease to all moving parts.
2. Pay special attention to the ram, ensuring it’s well-lubricated.
3. Lubricate the turret where it slides in the body (for turret presses).
4. Apply lubricant to pivoting points and other moving parts.
Reassembly and Final Check
1. Carefully reassemble the press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Perform a final functional check to ensure smooth operation.
3. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment and function.
Maintenance Schedule
• For moderate use, perform a basic cleaning and lubrication every few months.
• Conduct a full tear-down and deep clean annually or after processing large volumes of ammunition.
• Always clean and lubricate your press after exposure to moisture or corrosive primers.
Additional Tips
• Keep your press covered when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.
• Regularly blow out powder residue and debris with compressed air.
• Monitor your press for signs of wear over time, such as loosening of parts or decreased precision.
• If you notice any significant issues or wear, consider having your press professionally serviced or replaced.
By following these steps and maintaining a regular inspection and maintenance routine, you’ll ensure that your reloading press remains in excellent condition, providing you with years of safe and accurate ammunition production.