Shellplate binds when setscrew tightened

#1 · December 15, 2015, 8:10 pm

I adjust the shellplate bolt 'just right' on my 550 for proper clearance and indexing but when I snug down the brass tipped set screw the shellplate immediately binds up. I have to leave excess clearance under the shellplate bolt so it doesn't bind and then I get trouble with primers seating sideways and/or cases cocking at an angle.

Could the bolt be worn? Excess clearance between bolt body and ram ID?

I did try dressing the tip of the brass to remove irregularities but that didn't help.

I also removed shellplate and cleaned up everything; reassembled and got same issue.

Ideas ???

#2 · December 16, 2015, 5:46 pm

Grease the underside of the head of the shellplate bolt where it goes into the recess in the top of the index sprocket. It sounds like you have some galling there.

#3 · February 2, 2016, 4:37 pm

I plan to try the grease idea. What type of grease do you recommend?

If grease travels down the shell plate bolt, will that affect the ability of the set screw to lock the shell plate bolt in place?