Extra Length Shellplate Bolt for Dillon 450/550

Please read the FAQ below and make sure you need to order this.

Provides full contact by locking set screw on left side of ram with the shellplate bolt. See below for a picture and dimensions that will help you determine if your press needs this extra length bolt. Either way, this bolt will work with your 450 or 550 press

550 Series

Q: The sprocket is stuck on the shellplate shaft of my 550, how does it come apart?
A: Find a socket that’s big enough (3/4” should do it) to allow the shellplate bolt head to slide in. Place the sprocket/shellplate bolt upside down on the large opening of the socket and tap the bolt with a piece of wood. It should come out fairly easy.

Q: I can't keep the bearing adjusted, why doesn't it stay tight?
A: Don't forget to use the shellplate lock bolt on the left side of the ram to keep the shellplate bolt from turning.

Q: On the RL 550 B the shellplate bolt is not engaging the set screw on the left side of the press. What's the solution for locking the shellplate bolt in place?
A: When our bearing kit is added to the 550 the shellplate bolt is raised about 1/8". On some presses this is enough to prevent the set screw from locking the shellplate bolt. The solution is our extra length shellplate bolt, available for sale on our here

Use a machinist rule or other flexible rule to take these measurements, its really hard to use calipers for this measurement. If the set screw is .305" or less from top of the ram you probably don't need the extra length shellplate bolt. At .370" or greater from the top of the ram, the set screw will just catch the edge of the standard length bolt or miss it, the extra length shellplate bolt will fix this condition.

If the tip of the set screw is damaged, dress the tip with a fine file or emery cloth.