20 December 2003, 06:47
aladinTuning Lee 30-HBC-Trk/A Molds... 'How to' thread
I do intend to post details on how to tune and polish a Lee SC mold for longer life and better results. Most of this is already around the net with very simple steps to maximize life and user ease.
I'm going to put a copy together and run it by the BruceB's, Buckshot's, Felix et al's for comments and input. Best and easiest ways to make'm first rate molds....
Got a couple other angles for this design. More later as it pans out.....
Here's a few Lee's tuned with an LBT [far left] showing a custom plate mounted. Note the screws holding the hold down finger in on the Lee, the set screw holding the pivot screw in. More coming...

20 December 2003, 06:54
jpbI'm very much looking forward to this, Aladin!
jpb
22 December 2003, 02:54
aladinWhat's going to be covered is lapping/polishing the mold block top, polishing the plate, setting the pivot screw solid [couple methods], adding a hold down finger if desired, interior mold lapping/polishing, interior mold coating for casting, and handle mounting-- as in tightening it.
Now the handle tightening I haven't done much of. Understand Lee has a procedure and it was posted once or so on Shooters. Does anyone know/remember how that was posted??
TIA.
22 December 2003, 03:23
arkypeteI wonder if there's a market for taking the Lee molds scrapping the handles, sprue plate, replacing them with heavy duty? Maybe drilling for different block alinement pins, remilling the top surface, installing a sprue plate stop pin for the new 1/4 inch thick sprue plate?
You suppose Lee would sell just the blocks?
Jim
22 December 2003, 04:11
aladinArkypete Lee does market just the blocks w handles uncut inside.
A tuned Lee mold IMO for a SC doesn't need options to produce first run bullets. Polish one up and see what you think. Now mounting an externally fitted alignment system has possiblities.... yet I have a Lee 180 made PB that's been USED some, and it keeps cranking on. This old mold BTW is my 'standards' caster here-- meaning I throw a new alloy batch otta it to determine as cast dia's. That old favorite is near dead round on the rider too..