LNL Bullet Feed Help 45 ACP

[Branden967]

I need some help, as this one has me scratching my head. I "trying" to load 45 acp on my LNL press. Im just bought the Hornady bullet feeder die and I think I have it set up right. The PTX is flaring the case just enough for the bullet to rest nicely on the case. Then when it runs thorough the bullet seating die its set to the correct depth.
Here is the problem: The finished bullets are failing on the case gauge test. The bottom 2/3 of the case is ever so slightly wider and doesn't drop flush on the gauge.
Ive tested the cases after the size die and they fit perfectly, they are failing after the case runs thought the PTX. Some how the PTX is 1 flaring the case, but then 2 its also expanding the base.

Im stuck, if I back off the PTX flare, then they bullet wont set in the case and falls over.

What am I missing?

Additional info: The press is a LNL progressive and the dies are all Hornady.

Thanks for looking.

[gemoose23]

Are you using one of these on your powder drop?



Have you tried more crimp?

[bigdrunk92037]

If the PTX is flaring the case just enough as you state, you may want to check your taper crimp. It may need more crimp.

[Branden967]

Are you using one of these on your powder drop?



Have you tried more crimp?

Yes Im using that bar. I adjusted the bottom screw on that bar and it seems to have corrected the problem. Im still not sure that was the correct adjustment though.

[noylj]

The PTX simply doesn't go down far enough to upset the case base. The taper crimp must be adjusted to eliminate all case mouth flare.
I have never needed the turnbuckle or understand its use--it seems to be to fine-tune the flare, which is fine tuned enough to me by adjusting the powder die body up or down.
Have you taken the time to "paint" the bullet and first 1/2 of the case with black magic marker and drop the round in the barrel (off the gun)? Simply rotate the round a couple of times and where the marking is scratched is where the problem is. This should be done when you make up one or two inert dummy rounds to establish the COL for the bullet for your gun and to ensure chambering BEFORE you load live rounds.