Using the real big diameter dies....where do i get a cheap 1 1/2" wrench

[done111]

I just purchased the Lee Dies for 338 Lapua Magnum that are the large 1-1/4-12 thread that require me to remove the insert on my Rockchucker supreme. The insert has a hex that is 1-1/2" across flats. Is there a thin wrench made for removing that piece on a regular basis? I used a channel lock this time, but I need to get a real tool for this as I will be swapping back and forth to my smaller dies. I found wrenches on Amazon that size but they are pretty pricey. Figured someone out here may know what to get, maybe even made by RCBS, that aint too dang expensive, made for this task.

Don

 

[Sniper338]

Dies aint gotta be but hand tight in a press...

A good set of 338 lapua dies fit a regular press standard threads...

 

[Homerange]

The good ol' Cresent adjustable spanner in a 12" size model should do it.
Amazon should have something pretty well priced.

 

[gary0529]

+1 to both Sniper and HomeRange-I pulled the insert out of my old RockChucker years ago to put in the LnL system and all it took was a Crescent wrench and a little muscle to remove. Installing the new insert required nothing more than snug. Has not moved even a little bit in the past 8 or 10 years with plenty of use.
Don't over think this.

Gary

 

[dolek]

I just purchased the Lee Dies for 338 Lapua Magnum that are the large 1-1/4-12 thread that require me to remove the insert on my Rockchucker supreme. The insert has a hex that is 1-1/2" across flats. Is there a thin wrench made for removing that piece on a regular basis? I used a channel lock this time, but I need to get a real tool for this as I will be swapping back and forth to my smaller dies. I found wrenches on Amazon that size but they are pretty pricey. Figured someone out here may know what to get, maybe even made by RCBS, that aint too dang expensive, made for this task.

Don

This is one version,not sure if it's thin enough...you could always make it thinner .Also,check for wrenches used for bicycles...they are very thin and can be found in larger sizes,but most are metric.

 

[Just Dave]

I have bought a complete collection of cheap, box/open end wrenches in large sizes from Harbor freight over the years,
Seems like non of the sizes were over $20 each, but they are monstrously large, and wouldn't have a home on my bench.
Look at channel-locks "code blue" adjustable wrenches, They have a 6" version, that opens up to 1-3/8" wide that I keep on my bench

 

[hogpatrol]

Buy a cheap socket from Harbor Freight. IIRC, around four bucks. NAPA and other auto parts stores may also be a source.

 

[MrMajestic]

Pump wrenches are thin...
https://www.mscdirect.com/product/details/04510731

 

[The German]

This here is cheap, most likely readily available and might work as well: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Rheem-P...athon-Water-Heater-Elements-PT49057/300126883

 

[AJC]

You could thread in a die and use lock rings on the bottom side to remove the insert. You will get the same results without marring the crap out of the thin section, and use your regular tools

 

[Dusty Stevens]

Harbor freight socket

 

[joshb]

At least nobody suggested a hammer and a screwdriver.

 

[hogpatrol]

At least nobody suggested a hammer and a screwdriver.

Or a big set of visegrips.

 

[hogpatrol]

Harbor freight socket

After I posted that, I checked and didn't see any larger than inch and a quarter that were sold separately.

 

[sawcarver]

At least nobody suggested a hammer and a screwdriver.

I prefer a hammer and cold chisel...get a little more bite that way

 

[Knotwild]

I like checking pawn shops and second hand places. A friend came by with a hand full of smaller sockets (under 1") that he bought for $.50 each and a couple were Snap On.

 

[KMart]

Knotwild is right. If you live in an industrial area where temporary workers work shut downs and turn arounds, the pawn shops will be full of the large industrial stuff, cheap.

 

[Jimmy James]

A socket would really be the way to go but i got my combo wrench at HD for like $12

 

[MrMajestic]

Watch personal auctions also, old guys like me will have to sell everything before the ungrateful children pick a home for us...

 

[Homerange]

The problem with a socket to fit 1 1/2" it will most likely be 3/4" drive and without a 1/2" to 3/4" adapter you can't use it on your normal 1/2" drive household socket set.
1/2" drive sockets set normally stop at 32mm or ~ 1 5/16".
But you could weld a handle on it ........