Hotrodding a Lee 20# bottom pour pot?

[Questor]

I've got a Lee 20# bottom pour pot that I dread using because "it's always something."  Whether it's a drip or a jammed pouring lever, or some other vexing problem.  I think I'll turn it into a project to improve it for reliability and proper function.

Have you got any ideas to share?

Thanks.

[gutshot_again]

It's easy to remove the handle assembly and plug the hole.  Does OK for a dipping pot after that, or as a feeder to another pot.

[Graybeard]

Have you called Lee and spoken to the owner and told him of the problems you are having? He will talk with you and does seem interested in having folks be happy with Lee products. After all they bear his name. If not I suggest you do that before you begin to make any alterations to it. Give him a chance to make it right first. If he doesn't then make the changes you feel needed.

GB

[Leftoverdj]

Graybeard is right about trying to make them fix it first. If enough of us bug Lee, their quality control might improve.

I don't have a 20 pounder, but I sure cured the leaks in a couple of ten pounders by lapping the rod to the seat of the pour spout. Valve grinding compound and a 3/8" drill was all it took.

[Double D]

I have contacted Lee about there quality control many times over the years. They do stand behind there product. They will replace a defective product.  I returned a leaking Lee pot in 1976. They replaced it no charge.  The replacement leaked also.  It's something they do.  Finally just tossed the pot in the trash.  Bought a cast iron pot, ladle and coleman stove.  That cast iron pot has never leaked once.

Lee remains the YUGO of reloading products!

[Lloyd Smale]

may not be the porche of reloading tools but they stand behind there poducts alot better then some of the manufactures of more expensive stuff (can you say lyman)

[Lvl1trauma]

I too have experienced the woe's associated with the Lee's 20lb pots only because mine was given to me. Mine leakes continuously and the handle will not open the spout. As for the leaks- if they get too bad I bump the top of the flow rod (correct name?) with a rubber mallet. I also keep a ingot mold under it to catch the drip. I open the valve by lifting up on the rod with a gloved hand. I hope the days of this pot are numbered. I am not going to send it back because I have seen these problems posted by others numerous times over the years and it seems to be a flaw with the design. Like my Lyman sizer upgrade to a Star, I hope to upgrade to a Magma if they will answer my e-mail.

Beau

[markcl]

My pot will drip but a spin of the screw will stop it  and I overflow the molds so whats the problem ,don't run the pot empty keep an inch of clean lead in it and you'll have less grit in the valve