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Question about RCBS 505 scale

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23 March 2009, 06:35
kennedy
Question about RCBS 505 scale
I got one of these scales a week ago, and started messing with it today. I weighed different weight bullets, 200-180 grain. I was starting to load 43 grains of powder then the scale would not balance out. It would eithor be on bottom or on top of the middle line. It would just stay until I helped it with my finger. With the bullets it would weigh just fine. Should I send it back, if so would I be charged or not.
23 March 2009, 07:56
Winchester 69
You may just be experiencing the nature of the beast. The scale is magnetically damped and can demonstrate this trait. You probably need to practice reading the beam while it's swinging. Adding powder while it's stationary can be met with unresponsiveness.

However, the scale is also sensitive to dirt and to static buildup. Use some alcohol to clean the bearings and pivot. Wiping the copper disc with the alcohol-wetted cloth will remove static.

I believe that if you contact RCBS, they will have you send it to Ohaus, the manufacturer. Frankly, I doubt that there's anything wrong with the unit. Keeping it clean and level is usually all that is required for it to be functional.


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23 March 2009, 10:27
kennedy
I will give it a good cleaning and try it again.
23 March 2009, 10:39
SR4759
The magnetic dampening of the scale has no affect on it when the beam is not moving.
However you can have dull knife edges or dust in the bearings the knife edge ride on.
23 March 2009, 16:10
Haggis
Exactly what SR4759 said.
I've had one over 20 years and poop buildup in the groove has stopped it twice. Gentle clean with a cotton bud should have it rolling again
23 March 2009, 22:08
kennedy
I cleaned it a bit while it wasn't working at the time. I just put it down. I will clean it better today and try it.
23 March 2009, 23:45
orlop
also make sure the end caps of the pivot is not touching the the frame, be sure beam is centered in V notch
23 March 2009, 23:59
kennedy
I did notice that the beam is a little cockeyed while sitting in the notches. But maybe its just me, I don't have the scale where I am at the moment.