Got my used MEC reloader and a box of parts

[5Redman8]

Okay, I posted earlier that I am about to begin shotshell reloading.  My buddy gave me his box of stuff including a MEC model 400 Press.  Being 100% shotshell reloading ignorant, I have no clue what these things are.  I will try and post a pic later.  I know what a charge bar is and there are several of those, I think 5.  Also my buddy said there are things for 20ga and 12ga, and possibly others.

First question is how do I clean the press....It is covered in a layer of dust including sawdust.  I thought about using a degreaser but was not sure if there are any "o-rings" or plastic parts it might damage.  What would you guys recommend to clean with.  I can use water and soap but did not want to encourage rust.

After I get it cleaned along with all the parts, i will concentrate on a hunting load for Dove and Quail.  I may need 2 loads because the quail we work hold very tight for us with my GSP.

I definitely will purchase a new manual but i wanted to sort thruogh things and get it set up on a bench before I even think about loads.

My rifle press looks SIMPLE compared to this box of stuff!!!!

Kyle

[rickyp]

I would use something like simple green deluded way down out of a spray bottle the use a rag to wipe it down and dry it

[PA-Joe]

Here is the MEC link. You can download their manual. It will help you sort the parts.

http://www.mecreloaders.com/OwnerManuals/OwnerManuals.asp

First you are going to have to sort by gauge.

Ask your friend what it was set up for.

The powder and shot bars should be marked by ounce of shot. Hope you got and adjustable bar?

[PA-Joe]

Reloading is easy.
1. You start on the right side and reprime and size the case.
2. Move clockwise to next station and prime
3. Move to center and drop powder. Don't move the bar back and forth it will double charge and drop shot.
4. List ram 1/2 way up and then move shell to wad seater station. Insert wad them move sheel back to shot ram.
5. Push ram down to 50# then move shot bar to drop shot.
6. Insert loaded shell into the crimp sleeve then move to crimp station.
I can't tell you how to do the crimp.

Some tricks. When you move the charge bar to the powder station give the ram handle a hit. This will help unifor the powder charge. Do the same thing when you move it to the shot are. A little tap to help uniform the powder and shot dropping into the bar. Also give the handle another tap when you are actually droping the powder and shot into the case. Some times the powder or shot gets stuck in the tube.

[Flash]

Once you get started in reloading your hulls, look into getting an adjustable charge bar. They are well worth the money and save a lot of aggrivation. If you disassemble the entire press and separate any plastic pieces that may be damaged, CRC Brake Cleaner works good as a quick evaporating solvent but watch the paint finish. A good coat of red enamel might be in order after using the CRC.