Upgrading my 450 Frame

By AKThom
Published on: 2009-08-28 at 10:34 PM

Replies: 0

My RL450 of 25 years is going to get a new frame upgrade to RL550B. I have removed the shell plate head and now need to disassemble the linkage and mainshaft. The cross pin that appears to hold everything together does not tap out easily. Does it just require a firmer tap or is there some kind of a keeper holding it in place? Is there separate pins on each side or is it one pin? I do know how to align the head once it's reassembled but first I have to get the old machine apart. Advice is appreciated so I don't screw something up and have to take advantage of the no BS warranty. Thanks...

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Posted by: dillon

Posted on: 2009-08-29 at 07:53:22 AM

First, be sure you have removed the shaft from the machine. Once removed, run a long punch(we use a big nail with the end cut off) through the hollow right upper pivot pin to pound out the upper left pin. Don't be shy with the hammer here. Once the left pin has been removed, run the punch through the hole in the frame and pound out the right pin. You might need to use a wire wheel or scotchbrite pad to remove any transferred metal off the pivot pins before you regrease and reassemble.

Feel free to phone us for assistance when you are in front of the machine.

Posted by: AKThom

Posted on: 2009-08-31 at 07:01:01 AM

Got it. Just needed a firmer tap. Cleaned all the pieces and reassembled like a breeze. One bad thing, the original RL450 primer feed housing had the threads stripped out of the front hole. I sent a note to tech support to figure out the best course of action.

Posted by: dillon

Posted on: 2009-08-31 at 07:08:52 AM

We'll end up replacing the primer feed body. If you didn't include your address, send it so we can mail a replacement to you.

Posted by: AKThom

Posted on: 2009-08-31 at 11:47:48 AM

I called in about 30 minutes ago and ordered a auto primer feed upgrade. I wanted to get it in the mail as soon as possible so I can get back to reloading. The gentleman I spoke with said you didn't have any more primer feed bodies so ordering the upgrade seemed to be my only option. I'm beginning to wonder if maybe I should've just ordered a new 550B press instead of upgrading the old press. I couldn't left the 450 set up for full time 45ACP and changed calibers on the new press as needed. BUT, once I add the auto primer feed, it's a 550B. Thanks for your timely help.

Thom

Posted by: jdegeorge

Posted on: 2009-09-03 at 06:56:49 AM

AKThom, I had the same dilema... I ended up keeping my 450 with large auto primer & manual power drop set up just for .45ACP. Use my 550 for 9mm, 38, 357mag. Not needing to change to the large primer feed makes caliber changes on the 550 a snap. As an aside, have had my 450 since 1982 and have never had a problem with it.

RL450/550/550B

Upgrading my 450 Frame

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