Lyman 55 power measure question

slumlord44

I want to remove the plastic hopper and replace it with a brass one to use with blackpowder. How do I remove the plastic one without breaking it? It turns but is apparently not threaded in. How is it removed?

cbyerly

The newer ones are threaded. Just pull out as you unscrew it. If it's old, it may be a press fit.

slumlord44

It is definately not threaded. How do I get it off?

cbyerly

You may have to cut it off at the metal joint and use a dremel tool and grind out the remaining plastic. I am not convinced that it is necessary to use a copper tube for black powder. I have used my plastic tube measure for years with BP. If you are worried about static electricity, wipe the inside of the tube down with a cloths dryer softner sheet periodically.

44caliberkid

I have also used my #55 with the plastic hopper for BP for many years. You could run a ground wire from the cast iron body to a grounded source, for added safety. The dryer sheet idea is a good one too. I also don't wear socks when I'm reloading BP, go barefoot. Do the same thing when I'm doing internal work on computers.

slumlord44

I have seen this subject hashed to death on several fourms. The brass hopper is definately safe with the black powder. I don't know if there has ever been a documented case of a problem with the plastic hopper. I know a lot of people have used the plastic hopper with black powder with no problems.

mazo kid

quote:Originally posted by slumlord44
It is definately not threaded. How do I get it off?

Just twist (unscrew) and lift at the same time; it's only in the base a little way. I replaced my plastic hopper several years ago, even though I wasn't really convinced it was necessary. Got a brass tube that was a snug press fit and it has never come loose. If it did, I would drill and tap a couple of holes in the base and use set screws to retain it.

slumlord44

Thanks for the input gentleman, I will give it a try on my next garage session.