Which Dillon 550 upgrades help build more consistant ammo?

[fatelvis]

I'm looking at the roller bearing kit for the shellplate, to minimize flex during operation, and HOPEFULLY result in more consistant ammo. Are there any other upgrades that you feel are beneficial to ammo quality? Some of the aftermarket die heads or tightening systems perhaps? Thanks for all your input guys!

 

[DocBII]

fatelvis,

I like Whidden locking die heads. They keep the head and cases from moving when raising the ram. I also tend to prefer the Dillon dies when available. I have the roller bearing, it helps prevent the indexer from snapping into place, but I've also learned not to fill the cases too full. Polishing the powder funnel is good. The aftermarket knobs make it easier to adjust the amount of powder thrown. Keep the powder level between the Dillon markings and throw 10-30 charges dumping the powder back in the dispenser so the powder settles.

Don't use the primer seater feature, hand prime the cases. I prefer the plain K&M seater.

HTH,
DocBII

 

[jelenko]

roller bearing,

Polishing the powder funnel

Don't use the primer seater

Use springs for the powder bar return instead of the linkage

 

[Franko]

Armanov makes locking toolheads with floating rings which I prefer over the Whidden toolheads. I also measure powder off the press and use an Area419 powder funnel and extender.

 

[BigBlueandGoldie]

Look up Scott Harris' white paper on it.

 

[acloco]

Instead of a bearing (which WILL collect garbage), I used flat plastic washers that were sanded to remove burrs and as close to parallel surfaces. Polish the surface of the STAR and both sides of the steel washer. If you must use lube, dry graphite. Cost is 10 cents. A bushing is ALWAYS better than a bearing.

Strong mount - need to get the press to the best operating height for you. If you become tired, for any reason, press is not set for you. I stand with while reloading.

Roller/Other handle - several good roller handles on the market. I have a couple versions. Use factory and roller handles - preference to a roller.

CLEAN BRASS = LESS issues. I drug my feet....if you are not wet tumbling, start. EVERYTHING stays cleaner and runs longer.

 

[PatMiles]

Here is the Scott Harris article on Dillon 550 mods.

Dropbox - Error - Simplify your life

www.dropbox.com

Read the shell plate modification section a couple of times then forget about ordering the shell plate bearing.