KeithB
Resident Half Fast Machinist
One of the problems with Saeco lubers is that they use top punches that are unique to their brand. I sell an adapter that screws into the luber and permits using Lyman/RCBS style top punches. The price difference between the two top punch types is significant, which makes a low cost adapter an attractive option. The problem is that the adapter takes up some space and limits the length of bullets that can be sized - no problems with most short pistol bullets but a problem with longer rifle bullets.
One buyer sent me photos of a set of lengthened rods and linkage bar to offset the space loss and suggested that I offer those as an option. A sincere suggestion, but it seemed to be a little overcomplicated and duplicative. I have decided to take a different route by remaking the T-piece that holds the top punch.
Rick loaned me the factory part off his luber - thanks again Rick! I measured the part and duplicated it in my CAD system. Then I modified the part to make it easier to machine. Once I had the final part shape and size I pulled the necessary dimensions off of the CAD drawing and used those to write the CNC code. It will take four distinct steps to make the part on the CNC mill. I have the code written already, did that this weekend. In a few minutes I will go out to the shop and start cutting the blanks from a 1" x 2-1/2" x 96" bar of 1018. Then I will set up the mill and start debugging and running the first program.
As I do each step I will add it to this thread, I expect it will take a week or so to complete the entire batch (probably 26-27 parts total). The first part will go to Rick as a thank you. He says he doesn't use his Saeco but having the replacement part will hopefully add some value to a sale or trade he might make in the future. Then I will add the parts to my stock here in Keith's Korner and eliminate the current adapter.
Here is a photo of the CAD drawing of the new part.
One buyer sent me photos of a set of lengthened rods and linkage bar to offset the space loss and suggested that I offer those as an option. A sincere suggestion, but it seemed to be a little overcomplicated and duplicative. I have decided to take a different route by remaking the T-piece that holds the top punch.
Rick loaned me the factory part off his luber - thanks again Rick! I measured the part and duplicated it in my CAD system. Then I modified the part to make it easier to machine. Once I had the final part shape and size I pulled the necessary dimensions off of the CAD drawing and used those to write the CNC code. It will take four distinct steps to make the part on the CNC mill. I have the code written already, did that this weekend. In a few minutes I will go out to the shop and start cutting the blanks from a 1" x 2-1/2" x 96" bar of 1018. Then I will set up the mill and start debugging and running the first program.
As I do each step I will add it to this thread, I expect it will take a week or so to complete the entire batch (probably 26-27 parts total). The first part will go to Rick as a thank you. He says he doesn't use his Saeco but having the replacement part will hopefully add some value to a sale or trade he might make in the future. Then I will add the parts to my stock here in Keith's Korner and eliminate the current adapter.
Here is a photo of the CAD drawing of the new part.