Lee Breech Lock Challenger Press Problems

[PBWalsh]

Hi,

So I’m having issues with my press and its quick lock change bushing. It’s basically a part that allows you to change dies cery fast. Cool right? No, I hate it very much. Why? Because if I need to pull a bullet using my RCBS bullet puller with collet, I have to tighten down the collet pretty tight before pulling a bullet. Because of this, when I go to unscrew the collet die, the Lee bushing comes with it and I spend several minutes and frustration having to unscrew the die and bushing apart.

My solution is to epoxy or loctite the Lee bushing in place so it becomes all one peice. I do not care if I loose the quick change feature as I’m only reloading .308.

Is this a solution or should I consider dumping even more money into a better single stage press?

 

[Spblademaker]

That’s crazy. So the button that holds the bushing in place isn’t doing its job?

 

[PBWalsh]

No, the button seems to be permanently depressed. It worked fine when new, has been in storage for about 1.5-2 years though.

 

[Spblademaker]

Well that’s the obvious issue. See if a little ATF or break-free will soak in and loosen up the button and spring.

 

[spife7980]

Found this on the first google result- looks like his problem was lee paint got scraped off and bunched up jamming it up. I would give it some sort of lube or clp etc down in the button recess and let it soak in, then give it a good what with a rubber mallet on the side, see if you can jar it loose. I imagine its got gunk built up inside like most others seem to have. What I cant find is any instructions on removing the button.


What I liked most was Lee's answer lol

"On rare occasion the locking pin jams in the down position. What we recommend is
to drill a small hole in the center of the button. Screw in a sheet metal screw.
The screw can now be used to pull the button up.

If you do not feel
confident in doing this, return the press to the factory and we will fix it for
you at no charge. This service is free, but please enclose $5.25 for return
shipping.

Lee Precision"


Also this http://castboolits.gunloads.com/showthread.php?345133-Lee-press-button-stuck

 

[PBWalsh]

Yep, called Lee and found a thread on The High Road about it. Used a hex wrench and applied downwareds CCW pressure and shot aome WD-40 in there. Black muck arose from the inside and I now have a correctly functioning lock pin.

I appreciate it y’all!