Load Master Index Problem

There are two common causes for the Load Master to not index correctly. The easiest to check is the case ejector. This is a chrome plated part just under the black knurled nut that holds down the shell plate. There is a "tail" on the case ejector that prevents the shell plate from turning clockwise as the indexer is pulled out of the shell plate carrier. Make sure the end of this tail is bent down so that it drops into the holes in the top of the shell plate (if it doesn't, bend it with a needle nose pliers). It is important that when placed onto the square fitting on the carrier, that the case ejector not be able to move at all in a rotary manner. If it does, this would allow the shell plate to move in a clockwise manner which will cause index problems.

The other is carrier misalignment. Sometimes a difficult index causes the whole shell plate carrier to rotate on the end of the ram, rather than just the shell plate. This pulls the indexer away from the ramps cast into the frame that normally operate the indexer. The fix is outlined on the last page of the instructions, under "Alignment of the Carrier to the Turret". Basically what you are doing is loosening the carrier on the ram so that you can turn it clockwise (looking down from the top of the press) a degree or so, to bring the indexer closer to the frame.

While the directions contain more detail, loosen the draw bolt on the bottom of the ram of the press until the carrier is loose. Raise the ram to a point that the round portion of the flipper on the end of the index rod is against the protruded rib on the frame of the press. Ensure that the index rod is in towards the carrier as far as it will go.

From the front facing the press, pull slightly on the case feed ramp so that the round part of the flipper on the index rod is flush with protruding rib on the press frame. Holding the carrier in place, re-tighten the draw bolt to about twelve pounds of pressure. This means using about twelve pounds of pressure at the end of the handle of a one foot socket wrench or about twenty five pounds with a six inch socket wrench. It is important to hold the carrier tightly in place while tightening the draw bolt, if not done, the carrier will move counter-clockwise under the torque of tightening the draw bolt.

Be sure you are using full handle strokes to the bottom and back to the top, smooth and confident, not slowly as if to inspect the press functions. If you short stroke the press, the work on the cases is not completed and you will get squib loads when the dies are set properly. From the bottom of the handle stroke back to the top is where the shell plate indexes. At the bottom move the handle in a smooth confident motion back to the top, not “slammed” or "yanked", but also not slowly as if to inspect the press functions as the handle moves to the top. This creates the inertia that results in a smooth index. Also, put a little gun grease or heavy oil on the end of the index flipper and at the mating portion of the handle. I also place just a little on the pullout rib of the press frame. This all helps indexing occur smoothly. I also wipe the index rod down and give it a light coat of oil when I change calibers.