RL 550B
Instruction Manual
Version 7.8
illon
recision
Products, Inc.
Manufacturers of
The World's Finest
Loading Equipment
RL 550B Parts List
Part # Description
13149 Manual
13409 Crank
13573 Machine Box
13583 Link Arm, Left
13644 Powder Bar Spacer
13650 Spent Primer Cup
13673 Primer Magazine, Red, Large
13691 Powder Measure Tube
13700 Link Arm Pin
13704 Handle Washer
13707 Follower Rod
13719 Cartridge Spring Retainer Screw
13720 Index Sprocket
13734 Parts Box
13747 Link Arm, Right w/Hook
13757 Primer Seating Punch, Small
13765 Roller
13775 Main Shaft
13781 Shellplate Platform
13789 1/4-2/8 Set Screw
13793 Roller
13794 Shellplate Bolt
13795 Machine Cover
13799 Stripper Wing Nut
13801 Tinnerman Nut Insert
13803 Ejected Cartridge Chute Bracket
13824 Primer Seating Cup, Large
13825 Primer Seating Cup, Small
13830 Main Shaft Pivot Pin
13834 Solid Link Arm Pin, Left
13839 Cartridge Collection Bin
13841 Nylock Nut
13845 Collar Sleeve
13848 Bellcrank Bushing
13850 Operating Handle Knob
13857 Battery Cover
13864 Switch Lever
13869 Operating Rod
13871 Bellcrank Cube
13879 Primer Magazine, Blue, Small
13881 Hollow Link Arm Pin, Right
13882 Powder Measure Lid
13885 Return Bracket
13887 Operating Rod Bracket
13889 Primer Slide Roller
13890 Spring Washer
13891 Index Ball
13893 Powder Bar Post, Large
13898 Primer Slide Stop Nut
13899 Spent Primer Catcher Chute
13904 Bellcrank Bolt, New Style
13909 Toolhead
13917 Roller Clip
13919 Slide Roller Post
13920 Primer Slide
13921 Powder Bar Spacer Plug
13923 Brass Tip Set Screw
13924 Slide Post
13925 Ejector Wire
13926 Cartridge Spring
13928 Primer Slide Return Spring
Part # Description
* 13930 Locator Buttons (3)
13939 Body Collar Clamp
13940 Body Collar - Part
13943 Powder Bar Bolt
13951 Powder Bar Post, Small
13957 Magazine Shield Cap
13958 Powder Bar Bolt Washer
13961 Slide Pickup Adjustment Screw
13964 Retain Spring Screw
13966 Shellplate Platform Bolt
13967 Primer Seating Punch, Large
13979 Primer Retain Pin Spring
13996 Primer Punch Set Screw
13997 Index Ball Spring
13998 Spent Primer Catcher Pin
13999 Primer Pickup Tip, Yellow, Small
14001 Roller Pin
14003 Flexible Orifice, Red, Large
14008 Toolhead Pin
14010 Primer Pickup Tip, Green, Large
14013 Roller Bracket Screw
14014 Primer Housing Screw
14015 Primer Track Bearing
14023 8-32x3/4 BH Screw
14024 Flexible Orifice, Blue, Small
14025 Primer Slide Return Spring Retainer
14033 Spring
14037 Clamp/Bracket Screw
14040 Retaining Clip
14051 Primer Retaining Pin
14067 Die Lock Ring
14202 Powder Measure Tube Screw
14280 Roller Bracket Shell Platform
14281 Primer Slide Assembly, Large
14282 Primer Slide Assembly, Small
17085 Dispensing Tip, Large
17086 Dispensing Tip, Small
18086 Shoulder Washer
20048 Spare Parts Kit
20059 Primer Pickup Tube, Yellow, Small
20060 Primer Pickup Tube, Green, Large
20062 Powder Bar Assembly, Small
20063 Powder Bar Assembly, Large
20064 Powder Die
* 20093 Shellplate
20094 Frame
20263 Primer Feed Body w/ Shield
20302 Primer Early Warning System
20303 Powder Measure Failsafe Kit
20339 Bellcrank
20636 Operating Handle Assembly
20782 Powder Measure System
21275 Connector Body Collar
22038 Crank Assembly
22273 Powder Body w/ Drop Tube
97000 Rod
* Indicates caliber specific parts. See the caliber conversion
chart for the correct part number for the caliber you are
loading for.
Some items listed are not shown in schematic illustration.
Part #13149 Spot Manuals RL550B Manual Folder 550B Manual.V7.8 9/01 WJC
14040
20059
13673
13707
13794
13720
20093
13966
13925
14015
13881
14025
13928
14014
13923
13747
13650
13775
13890
13409
13700
13789
13830
13890
13583
13841
13803
13839
13834
20094
13909
14067
13841
20636
Assembly
13781
13885
14008
13891
13997
13930
20302
See page 5 for
more detail.
14280
See page 5 for
more detail.
See page 4 for
more detail.
See page 5 for
more detail.
13801
97000
18086
14033
13799
3
RL 550B Schematic
17085 (large)
or
17086 (small)
13882
22273
13691
13793
14808
13940
13845
13871
97034
14041
13904
13939
14037
18086
14033
13801
13799
14067
20064
*13782
*13426
16340
14202
97000
13848
13893
20062
21353
20063
13426 * Powder Funnel, .45 cal Pistol
13644 Powder Bar Spacer
13691 Powder Measure Tube Only
13782 * Powder Funnel, .22 cal Rifle
13793 Roller
13845 Collar Sleeve
13848 Bellcrank Bushing
13871 Bellcrank Cube
13882 Powder Measure Lid
13893 Powder Bar Post, Large
13904 Bellcrank Screw
13921 Plastic Plug
13939 Body Collar Clamp
13940 Body Collar - Part
13943 Powder Bar Bolt
13951 Powder Bar Post, Small
13958 Powder Bar Bolt Washer
(not pictured)
14023 8-32x3/4 BH Screw
14037 Clamp/Bracket Screw
14041 Bowed Washer
14067 Die Lock Ring
14202 Powder Measure Tube Screws
14808 Collar Roller Bushing
16340 10-32 Nylon Lock Nut
20062 Powder Bar Assembly, Small
20063 Powder Bar Assembly, Large
20064 Powder Die
20780 Powder Bar Assembly, Extra Small
21275 Connector Body Collar - Complete
21353 Powder Bar Assembly, Extra Large
22273 Powder Measure, Part
97034 Slotted Bellcrank
20303 Powder Measure Failsafe Kit
13799 Stripper Wing Nut
13801 Tinnerman Nut Insert
13885 Return Bracket
(not pictured– see the main
schematic to identify part)
14033 Rod Spring
18086 Shoulder Washer
97000 Failsafe Rod
NOTE: * Indicates caliber specific parts –
see the caliber conversion chart for the
correct part number for the caliber you are
loading for.
W
ARNING
This powder measure drops a full charge of
powder each time the operating handle is
cycled. If, for any reason, you believe that
more than a single measure of powder was
dropped or you think that you may have
cycled the handle more than once on a
single case, you need to empty the case and
start over.
A double charged case can result in bodily
injury or a damaged firearm.
14202
13951
20780
13644
RL 550B Automatic Powder System
13921
14023
4
13757 Primer Seating Punch, Small
13824 Primer Seating Cup, Large
13825 Primer Seating Cup, Small
13869 Operating Rod
13887 Operating Rod Bracket
13889 Large Roller
13898 Primer Slide Stop Nut
13917 Roller Clip
13919 Roller Pin
13920 Primer Slide
13924 Primer Slide Return Spring Post
13957 Primer Shield Cap
13961 Slide Pickup Adjustment Screw
13964 Primer Feed Stop Spring Screw
13967 Primer Seating Punch, Large
13979 Primer Feed Stop Spring
13996 Primer Punch Set Screw
14003 Flexible Orifice Large (small 14024)
14010 Pickup Tube Tip Large (small 13999)
14033 Primer Seating Cup Spring
14037 Clamp/Bracket Screw
14040 Retaining Clip
14051 Primer Feed Stop Pin
17085 Dispensing Tip, Large
17086 Dispensing Tip, Small
20263 Primer Housing and Shield
22028 Primer Pickup Tube, Small
22029 Primer Pickup Tube, Large
22030 Primer Magazine, Small
22031 Primer Magazine, Large
20302 Primer Early Warning System
13707 Follower Rod
13857 Battery Cover
13864 Switch Lever
14280 Roller Bracket Assembly
13719 Cartridge Spring Retaining Screw
13765 Roller
13899 Spent Primer Catcher Chute
13926 Cartridge Spring
13998 Spent Primer Catcher Pin
14001 Roller Pin
14530 Roller Bracket Screw(s)
Complete Primer Slide Assemblies
14281 Primer Slide Assembly, Large
14282 Primer Slide Assembly, Small
5
13707
13864
20302
13957
14040
17085 (large)
or
17086 (small)
20060
14010
14003
20263
13967
13887
22031
13869
13857
13964
14051
13979
13961
13898
13924
13919
13917
14280
14530
13899
13765
13719
13889
13996
14033
13824
14037
14037
13998
14001
13920
RL 550B Automatic Primer System
13926
Introduction
First of all, the Dillon RL 550B is a remarkably simple
machine–a little care and thought while setting up will
save you time and give you thousands of trouble free
rounds.
Suggested Minimum Equipment:
1) Loading Manual 2) Powder Scale
3) Safety Glasses 4) Primer Flip Tray *
5) Dial Caliper * (* Indicates items that are not
absolutely essential, but are pretty darned handy!)
Mounting the RL 550B to your bench.
Place your RL 550B on the edge of sturdy bench or table.
Give yourself about 12 inches of work space on each side of
the machine to allow room for components.
Using the machine itself as a template, mark and drill
four one-quarter inch holes in your bench and bolt your RL
550B securely to it, Fig. 1. Next, mount the cartridge
collection bin bracket (#13803) onto your bench, Fig. 2,
allowing approximately one-eighth inch clearance between
the platform (#13781) and the ejected cartridge chute.
Using two screws or bolts, secure the bracket to your
bench. The cartridge collection bin (#13839) simply slides
on the bracket, Fig. 3, and will be in the proper position to
catch ejected loaded rounds. Bolt the operating handle in
place as shown in the schematic.
Safety Points to Know Before you Begin
Reloading ammunition involves the use of highly
explosive primers and powder. Handling these materials is
inherently dangerous. You should recognize this danger
and take certain minimum precautions to lessen your
exposure to injury.
Never operate the machine without ear and eye
protection on. Call our customer service department at
(800) 223-4570 for information on the wide variety of
shooting/safety glasses and hearing protection that Dillon
has to offer.
• PAY ATTENTION: Load only when you can give your
complete attention to the loading process. Don’t watch
television or try to carry on a conversation and load at the
same time. Watch the automatic systems operate and make
sure they are functioning properly. If you are interrupted
or must leave and come back to your loading, always
inspect the cases at every station to insure that the proper
operations have been accomplished.
• SMOKING: Do not smoke while reloading or allow
anyone else to smoke in your reloading area. Do not allow
open flames in reloading area.
• SAFETY DEVICES: Do not remove any safety devices
from your machine or modify your machine in any way.
• LEAD WARNING: Be sure to have proper ventilation
while handling lead components or when shooting lead
bullets. Lead is known to cause birth defects, other
reproductive harm and cancer. Wash your hands
thoroughly after handling anything made of lead.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 2 - This photograph shows the correct mounting
position of the cartridge collection bin bracket in relation
to the machine.
Fig. 1 - Using the machine as a template, mark and drill
four 1/4 inch holes allowing 12 inches on each side for
your work area.
Fig. 3 - The cartridge collection bin (#13839) simply slides
onto the bracket and will be in the proper position.
6
• LOADS AND LENGTHS: Avoid maximum loads and
pressures at all times. Use only recommended loads from
manuals and information supplied by reliable component
manufacturers and suppliers. Since Dillon Precision has no
control over the components which may be used on their
equipment, no responsibility is implied or assumed for
results obtained through the use of any such components.
Seat bullets as close to maximum cartridge length as
possible. Under some conditions, seating bullets
excessively deep can raise pressures to unsafe levels. Refer
to a reliable loading manual for overall length (OAL).
• QUALITY CHECKS: Every 50-100 rounds, perform
periodic quality control checks on the ammunition being
produced. Check the amount of powder being dropped
and primer supply.
• RELOADING AREA: Keep your components safely
stored. Clear your work area of loose powder, primers and
other flammables before loading.
• COMPONENTS: Never have more than one type of
powder in your reloading area at a time. The risk of a mixup is too great. Keep powder containers closed.
Be sure to inspect brass prior to reloading for flaws,
cracks, splits or defects. Throw these cases away.
Keep components and ammunition out of reach of
children.
• BLACK POWDER: Do not use black powder or black
powder substitutes in any Dillon powder measure.
Loading black powder cartridges requires specialized
loading equipment and techniques. Failure to do so can
result in severe injury or death.
• PRIMERS: Never force primers. If they get stuck in the
operation of the machine, disassemble it and gently
remove the obstruction.
Never attempt to clear primers that are stuck in either
the primer pickup tube or the primer magazine tube.
Never, under any circumstances, insert any type of rod to
attempt to force stuck primers out of these tubes. Trying to
force primers out of the tube will cause the primers to
explode causing serious injury or even death.
If primers get stuck in a primer magazine or pickup
tube flood the tube with a penetrating oil (WD-40), throw
the tube in the garbage and call us for a free replacement.
Never attempt to deprime live primers – eventually one
will go off. When it does it will detonate the others in the
spent primer cup. Depriming live primers is the single
most dangerous thing you can do in reloading and can
cause grave injury or death.
• LOADED AMMUNITION: Properly label all of your
loaded ammunition (Date, Type of Bullet, Primer, Powder,
Powder Charge, etc.).
• BE PATIENT: Our loading equipment is conservatively
rated and you should have no trouble achieving the
published rates with a smooth, steady hand. If something
doesn’t seem right, stop, look and listen. If the problem or
the solution isn’t obvious, call us. The reloading bench is
no place to get into a hurry.
We have done everything we know how to make your
machine as safe as possible. We cannot, however, guarantee
your complete safety. To minimize your risk, use common
sense when reloading and follow these basic rules.
• REMEMBER: If your machine does not perform to your
expectations, or if you are having technical difficulties, give
us a call.
TO BEGIN LOADING
Now that everything is bolted down and you
understand the safety precautions, you can proceed.
First, decide what caliber you want to reload and take
the shellplate (*#20079) from the caliber conversion box,
Fig. 4. Now, in your parts box, find a bag containing; index
ball (#13891), shellplate bolt (#13794), index ball spring
(#13997), set screw (#13923), and index sprocket (#13720).
Insert the index ball spring (#13781) in the platform as
shown in Fig. 5. Next set the index ball on top of the index
ball spring. Now place the shellplate (number up) over the
index ball spring and index ball, Fig. 6.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 4 - This photo shows a complete caliber conversion;
the powder funnel, shellplate and locator buttons.
Fig. 5 - This photo shows the index ball spring and index
ball being placed in the platform.
7
Place the index sprocket on top of the shellplate
(making sure the locator posts go into the
corresponding holes in the shellplate, see Fig. 7).
Next, insert the shellplate bolt through the
sprocket and plate and into the center hole of the
platform, Fig. 8. Tighten with the supplied Allen
wrench to the point where you are unable to turn the
sprocket by hand. Now, back off the bolt slightly,
allowing you to push the sprocket easily with your
thumb, Fig. 9. There should be no looseness or slop at
this point and when you rotate the plate, you should
be able to feel and hear the index ball “click” into
place under the shellplate.
Fig. 8 - Inserting the shellplate bolt, first through the index
sprocket then the shellplate.
Fig. 7 - This photo shows the index star in its proper
position: the locating tabs centered in the shellplate.
8
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 6 - Showing the shellplate in its proper position:
under the ejector wire with the shellplate number up.
Fig. 9 - This photo shows the proper method of
indexing the shellplate and the proper installation of
the locator buttons.
Take the brass tipped set screw (#13923) insert
and tighten securely in the tapped hole beneath the
platform on the left side of the main shaft, Fig. 10.
This will keep the shellplate from tightening as you
use the machine. This screw must be loosened when
changing calibers, something that is often forgotten
as it’s out of sight.
In your caliber conversion box, you will find three
brass locator buttons. These simply drop into the three
remaining holes in the platform, Fig. 9. These
“buttons” hold the cases securely in place while you
are reloading, but by removing them, allow you to take
out a troublesome case, should that occur in your
reloading process.
What Primer Size?
Your RL 550B has been shipped to you with the
primer system installed and correctly adjusted to feed
large primers. If the caliber you have selected to start
with requires small primers, you must change to the
small primer slide bar.
Observe carefully how the factory-adjusted bar fits,
Fig. 11. Raise and lower the platform and notice the
alignment of the primer seating cup (*#13824) as it
enters the platform. This adjustment is made by
turning the cap screw (#14037) on the primer feed
body, Fig. 12. Now remove the two screws from
beneath the frame under the primer feed body, Fig. 13.
Unhook the spring and remove the primer slide. To
replace, reverse this procedure.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 11 - This is the proper alignment of the operating rod
and the position of the primer slide fully forward with the
primer seating cup in the lowered platform.
Fig. 12 - The operating rod has moved the primer slide
into the primer feed body where it will automatically
pick up a primer.
Fig. 10 - Insert the brass tipped set screw (#13923) and
tighten securely.
Fig. 13 - Removing the primer feed body to change primer
slides. Caution do not over tighten these bolts (#14014).
9
This set screw (#13961) adjusts
the outward travel of the primer
slide to align the primer seating
cup with the primer magazine.
The operating rod (#13869) must be installed
between the two white rollers before the operation of
the primer slide. Refer to Fig. 12 for the proper
placement of the rod. Unscrew the knurled cap
(#13957) and remove the large primer magazine and
replace with the small primer magazine tube, Fig. 14;
the plastic tip should look like the one you just took
out. Replace the knurled cap.
Wait until you’ve finished assembly before actually
placing primers in the magazine.
You will notice that the primer magazine tube tips
are different colors and have an indexing ridge on the
tip. The magazine tips and the primer pick-up tube tips
are color coded to help identify their size, see page 13
for more information. The indexing ridge is to help
you place the magazine in its proper position in the
primer feed body.
The Toolhead
Your new RL 550B has been shipped to you with
one removable toolhead. Additional toolheads are
available from the factory.
The advantage of this system is simple, once your
dies have been adjusted just the way you want them,
they can stay that way. Plus, changing to another
caliber becomes a simple matter of pulling two pins
and sliding the toolhead out, Fig. 15.
Choose Your Dies
Your RL 550B will perform well with any
manufacturer’s standard 7/8 x 14 die. However, for
ease of use in your RL 550B, the dies should have a
radius on the lead-in portion of the die; that is to say
a taper or funnel effect to assist the entrance of the
case into the die. This is especially recommended on
the sizing die.
We also recommend the use of separate bullet
seating and crimp dies for pistol cases. Simultaneous
seating and taper crimping of semi-auto cases is not
recommended. Why?
Two reasons. First, in a combination seating and
crimping die, we have two forces that are opposed to
one another. That is, forcing the bullet into the case
while trying to simultaneously crimp it in place.
A better idea is to seat the bullet in one die and then
crimp it in place in another. With semi-auto cases
(9mm & .45 ACP) you must use a separate taper crimp
die to get reliable ammunition and function from your
semi-automatic pistol. This type of crimp is necessary
to maintain the square shoulder effect where the brass
edge of the case meets the bullet. It is on this tiny
shoulder that the functioning of your semi-auto pistol
depends. If this shoulder is rounded or roll-crimped,
the cartridge may enter too far into your pistol’s
chamber and jams will result. On revolver
ammunition, where the cartridge headspaces on the
rim of the case, this type of crimp is not as important,
but once again, by using a separate crimp die, you will
obtain better and more uniform bullet seating.
Carbide Dies?
All Dillon pistol resizing dies are manufactured
with a carbide insert. Carbide is one of the world’s
hardest materials and will last the average reloader a
lifetime. It also takes a high polish and being more
dense is smoother than a steel die. Besides its
longevity, it has another advantage. All steel dies
require lubrication of your brass before resizing, but
with a carbide pistol resizing die this is not absolutely
necessary. Lubrication will make sizing easier, but
with a carbide pistol die, it is not required.
However, when using carbide rifle dies, your cases
must always be lubricated.
The advantage of carbide rifle dies is their long life
and scratch resistant qualities. If you are a commercial
reloader, you may want to consider them.
Setting your Pistol Dies
If you’re setting up rifle dies, use the separate
instruction booklet supplied with the dies.
Before you begin, make sure that the toolhead is
secured by the toolhead pins (#14008).
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 15 - A complete, removable toolhead with all of the
dies adjusted. Toolhead stand is optional.
Fig. 14 - The machine comes with two primer pickup tubes
(#20060 Lg, #20059 Sm) and two primer magazine tubes
(#22031 Lg, #22030 Sm). Each has a large and small. They are
color coded for easier identification. See page 13 for color
coding information. The large ones should be used together
and the small ones should be used together. You will notice
that the primer magazine tips have an indexing ridge to
assist in their placement in the primer feed system.
10
Station One
In the first station, Fig. 16, brass is resized,
deprimed, and then reprimed.
Using the die lock rings provided, screw the sizing
die into the toolhead. Raise the platform and screw the
die down until it touches the shellplate. Then back it
off one-half turn. Lower the platform and insert an
empty case into Station One and cycle the operating
handle. Now check it for sizing and depriming.
If it looks good, raise the platform so the case is in
the die, tighten the lock ring on the die and tighten the
decapping stem. This will keep everything centered.
A note of caution, never attempt to deprime a live
primer. An explosion may result.
Station Two
In the second station, the powder is dropped and
the mouth of the case is belled. This is where the
Automatic Powder System is installed.
First, screw the powder die (#20064) into the
toolhead, Fig. 17. Now insert the pistol powder funnel
(*#13782) or a rifle powder funnel (*#13426) with the
tapered end down, Fig. 18. The funnel should move
freely in the die.
Set the powder measure assembly onto the powder
die, Fig. 19. The powder measure clamp (#13939)
should fit loosely around the die, tighten the screws
just a little. This will enable you make adjustments to
the die easily, Fig. 19.
Fig. 16 - A fully loaded shellplate, directly below the
proper dies. Clockwise from Station One, the cartridge at
this station is resized, deprimed and reprimed. Notice the
cartridge retaining spring holding the case in place.
Station Two bells the case mouth (pistol only) and
dispenses the powder. Station Three seats the bullet.
Station Four crimps the bullet.
Fig. 17 - This photo shows the powder die in its correct
position (Station Two) in the toolhead. The powder die
may be higher or lower depending on the caliber it is being
adjusted for
.
Fig. 18 - Drop the powder funnel into the powder die
tapered end first. The funnel should move freely in the die.
Fig. 19 - The powder die can be easily adjusted by turning
the die beneath the toolhead while holding the powder
measure securely from above.
11
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
On rifle cases, the die should be adjusted so that the
powder funnel will contact the mouth of the case and
then fully actuate the powder bar, Fig. 20 & 21. These
adjustments are accomplished with a case in the
shellplate and alternately raising and lowering the
operating handle, while adjusting the powder die, Fig.
19. When properly adjusted, the powder bar will be
moved to its full rearward position by the case, Fig. 20
& 21. When you have determined that your
adjustments are correct, tighten the lock ring and the
locking collar.
Next, attach the powder measure fail safe rod
assembly to the bellcrank (#17839). Using your thumb
and index finger of your right hand, move the locklink down to align the hole with the slot on the
Powder Measure bellcrank (#17839). Then insert the
rod (#97000) through the two holes, Fig. 20. Next,
lower the operating handle (#20636). Insert the powder
measure rod into the slot in the return bracket (#13885)
press the shoulder washer into the slot from the
bottom. Move the operating handle to the priming
position, press the operating handle firmly forward.
Tighten the blue wingnut (#13799) until the top of the
spring (#14033) just touches the underside of the
return bracket (#13885). We’ll come back to filling the
measure with powder and adjusting the bar. The
purpose of the powder measure failsafe rod (#97000) is
to return the powder bar to its closed position.
Station Three
In this station the bullet is seated to its proper
depth. You need to refer to a loading manual for
overall length of the completed round.
Put a case into the shellplate at Station Three. Raise
the platform up and screw the die down until it just
touches the shellplate and back it out two turns. Now,
back your seating stem out.
Place a bullet on the case and operate the handle.
Using a dial caliper or case gage, check for overall
length. Keep screwing the seating stem down in small
increments until the correct overall length is achieved.
Once you are satisfied with the overall length, tighten
the lock ring.
Station Four
The crimping operation is performed at this station.
Insert the crimp die and place an empty case in
Station Four. Raise the platform and screw the
crimping die down until it touches the rim of the case.
Now lower the platform and screw the die down an
additional one-quarter of a turn. Place a round in
Station Four with a seated bullet and cycle the
operating handle.
You will need to refer to a loading manual to get
proper crimp dimensions for the caliber you are
loading. A dial caliper is required to take accurate
measurements from your crimped round.
If more crimp is needed, screw the crimp die down
in small increments until you get the desired crimp,
now tighten the lock ring.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
12
Fig. 20 - This photo shows the large powder bar in its
closed position. (Primer system removed for clarity.)
Fig. 21 - This photo shows the large powder bar in its fully
open position. (Primer system removed for clarity.)
Adjusting the Powder Charge
You will notice an adjusting bolt on the back of the
powder bar, Fig. 22.. Turning the bolt counterclockwise reduces your powder charge, clockwise
increases the charge. Your machine comes with two
powder bars – one large and one small.
Rule of thumb: Use the large bar whenever
possible. These bars are easily changed, Fig. 23. Use a
reloading manual to determine how much powder
you need for a particular load and an accurate
powder scale to determine the weight. A high quality
precision powder scale is available from Dillon. You
should now fill the powder measure with your
chosen powder. Place an empty case under the
measure and operate the machine's handle. Then, by
trial and error adjustments, determine the correct
weight of your powder charge. You are now ready to
fill the primer magazine.
Primer Early Warning System Installation
(See item #20302 on page five for assistance.)
Remove the follower rod (#13707) from the
assembly bag and set it aside. Install the battery and
the battery cover (#13857) in the system’s main body.
Slide the Early Warning System assembly down over
the knurled cap on your primer magazine (#13957) and
lightly tighten the clamp screw.
Primer Magazine
You will notice that the primer magazines and
primer pick-up tubes have different colored tips.
They have been color coded to help you identify
size more easily.
The color code is as follows:
Blue Small Primer Magazine Orifice
Red Large Primer Magazine Orifice
Yellow Small Primer Pick-up Tube
Green Large Primer Pick-up Tube
Select the proper size pick-up tube and fill it by
placing the plastic expandable tip over loose primers
and pressing down. The shiny sides of the primers
need to be facing up, Fig. 24.
This is most easily accomplished by using a primer
flip tray, which will arrange them all for you, Fig. 24. A
quality cast metal flip tray is available from Dillon and
is a better choice than the smaller plastic trays which
are difficult to use and have a tendency to warp.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
Fig. 24 - Use of the primer pickup tube and the Dillon
Primer flip tray.
Fig. 22 - Turning the bolt counter- clockwise reduces
your powder charge, clockwise increases the charge.
Fig. 23 - After emptying the powder measure, loosen the
bellcrank screw (#13904) sufficiently to allow you to
remove the powder bar. Insert the new powder bar and
reverse this procedure.
13
#13904
Once you’ve filled the pick-up tube, make sure the
little retaining clip is in place at the top of the tube.
Pivot the switch lever (#13864) away from the Early
Warning System housing. Invert the pick-up tube over
the knurled cap (#13957) of the primer magazine, Fig.
25. You will notice the cap has a bevel to help you
funnel the primers in. Hold the tube in place, pull the
retaining clip and allow the primers to drop into the
magazine. Pivot the switch lever back over the Early
Warning System housing. Gently slide the follower rod
down into the primer magazine tube until the follower
rod touches the primers.
When you are nearly out of primers (about three
left) the follower rod (#13707) will activate the buzzer.
A word of caution: primers are easily detonated,
sometimes by a remarkably light blow. Treat them as if
they are as fragile as eggs. Never force them.
At Last
If you’ve followed instructions, you are now ready
to load.
Many reloaders develop their own style when
using the RL 550B. But, let me explain the most
efficient method. Try it and later, if you want to make
changes in your technique, go ahead.
Place your bullets in a box to the left of the RL 550B
and the empty cases in a box to the right. A few extra
cartridge collection bins (#13839) are ideal for this.
You will notice an adjustable retaining spring at
Station One. This spring should be adjusted to almost
contact the case when it’s placed in the shellplate.
Now, with your right hand, place a case in Station
One and smoothly pull the operating handle. This
resizes and decaps this case, at the same time your
primer slide should be automatically carried back to
the primer magazine, where it will pick up a primer.
Now, raise the handle smoothly. The primer slide
(#13920) will come forward with a primer and place it
under the deprimed case. If you are using the handle
gently, you will feel the primer contact the primer
pocket. Press forward firmly until the handle stops.
Your primer will now be seated.
Advance the case to the second Station by pressing
on the index sprocket (#13720) with your left thumb.
Place another empty case into Station One and pull the
operating handle. Station One will repeat as before.
Station number two will bell the case mouth and
dispense the powder. Again, raise the handle, index
with your thumb and place a bullet on the powder
charged case at Station Three with your left hand, Fig.
7. With your right hand, install a new case at Station
One and pull the handle. Stations one and two will
repeat as before.
Station Three will seat the bullet. Index with your
left thumb and put in a bullet. Put an empty case into
Station One with your right and operate the handle.
Stations one, two and three will repeat: Station Four
will have crimped the bullet. Index again and your first
completed round will tumble into the cartridge
collection bin. Now just add a bullet and a case. Each
time you operate the handle you’ll get a loaded round.
Works good, right? If not, go back over the procedure.
If it’s not right you need to do some...
Trouble Shooting
Use 30 weight motor oil on the main shaft and
bearing grease on the pivot pins. Do not use spray type
penetrating lube such as WD40 or Break Free as you
run the risk of contaminating powder and primers.
Problem One. Primers are not seated deeply
enough.
A. Shellplate too loose.
B. Shellplate upside down. You should be able to
see a stamped shellplate number facing up.
C. The crimp in the primer pockets of military brass
will cause this problem. Crimps can be easily removed
by use of a Dillon Primer Pocket Swage.
Problem Two. Erratic powder bar operation:
A. Turn the powder die (#20064) clockwise in oneeighth turn increments. This will insure complete
powder bar activation.
B. Extruded pencil type powders will not flow
smoothly through smaller sized powder funnels
because of their length. Another problem with
extruded powders is getting them into small necked
cases. Many times these powders will “bridge” across
the case mouth and cause spillage and erratic charges,
There is no fast way of dispensing these powders and
if you insist on using them in small mouthed cases it
is best to weigh every charge by hand. Modern ball
type powders will do for most reloading situations.
These powders will do everything the pencil powders
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
14
Fig. 25 - Drop the primers into the primer magazine.
15
will do, but without this problem. Warning: Do not
use I.M.R. pencil lead type powder in cases smaller
than .30 caliber.
Problem 3. Primer jams or misfeeds.
A. Primer misfeeds can be caused by
misadjustment of the set screw (#13961) in the primer
feed block, Fig. 12.
B. The most common cause of primer misfeeds or
jams is the primer punch not seated fully into the
primer slide. This will cause the primer seating cup to
strike the flexible orifice on the bottom of the primer
magazine tube.
Warning: If the primers are jammed and will not
feed from the bottom of the primer magazine, Do Not
Attempt to force the primers or the primer slide. An
explosion resulting in injury may occur.
C. Another common problem is that the primer
slide fails to return fully forward with the new primer.
Periodically wipe the primer slide with rubbing
alcohol. This removes the spent primer residue that
causes the slide to drag.
Problem 4. Crushing cases:
A. If your dies do not have a radiused lead-in you
must guide the cases into the die. The best solution is
to replace the offending dies with dies having the
proper radius.
B. Always tighten your die lock rings with a case in
the die. This will assure you of proper alignment
between the die and the shellplate. Adjust your
depriming stem in the same manner and it will always
be on center.
REMEMBER
Be sure to use the necessary precautions when
loading lead bullets or when casting lead bullets.
Exposure to lead can cause cancer, birth defects, and
reproductive problems. Be sure to wash your hands
thoroughly after handling lead. When firing lead
bullets, be sure that you have adequate ventilation.
Keep any lead items out of reach of children.
Press forward firmly on the handle once it is at the
aft position to seat your primers fully.
Watch the powder bar function to make sure you’re
getting powder.
Set the bullet straight on the case at Station Three so
that it enters the die correctly.
Watch your supply of powder, you’ll be using it
faster than you think you are.
Take your time and learn the machine and its
function. The RL 550B will deliver hundreds of trouble
free rounds in short order, just relax and take your
time in the beginning.
Keep it clean – primer residue, spilled powder and
just plain dirt can jam your machine.
Clean your powder bar about every 500 rounds.
Some powders build up and will eventually stick the
powder bar. Paint thinner, acetone or lacquer thinner
works well to remove any build up.
NOTICE
This machine is designed specifically to be a
manually operated handloading machine. Any
attempts to automate this product will void any and all
warranties offered by the company. We specifically
warn against converting this product to automated or
motorized operation.
All Dillon machines are warranted for life from
defects in material or workmanship, plus a one year
100% warranty against normal wear. All
electrical/electronic components in Dillon equipment
are covered by a one year warranty.
* Indicates a caliber specific part. See the caliber conversion
chart on page 16 for the caliber you are loading for.
16
Conversion Powder Shellplate Locator
Handgun Calibers Kit Funnel Button
.30 Luger #20175 C - #13564 5 - #13743 3
.30 Mauser #20174 C - #13564 5 - #13743 3
.32 ACP - 7.65mm #20160 S - #12845 8 - #13135 8
.32 S&W Long #20146 S - #12845 D - #13092 3
.32 Short Colt #20160 S - #12845 8 - #13135 8
.380 ACP #20133 F - #13806 3 - #13684 3
9x18 #21656 9 - #14980 5 - #13743 3
9mm Luger #20127 F - #13806 5 - #13743 3
9x25 Dillon/.357 Sig. #21526 F - #13806 5 - #13743 2
.38 S&W #20159 F - #13806 U - #12944 2
.38 AMU #20278 F - #13806 O - #12013 3
.38 Super #20127 F - #13806 5 - #13743 3
.38 Sp.-.357 Mag./Max. #20132 D - #13599 2 - #13751 2
10mm/.40 S&W #20179 W - #13600 5 - #13743 2
.41 AE #20277 AE - #13180 5 - #13743 3
.41 Mag. #20135 H - #13240 6 - #13120 1
.44 Sp. - Mag. #20136 G - #13427 4 - #13610 4
.45 ACP #20126 E - #13782 1 - #13692 1
.45 Auto Rim #20158 E - #13782 H - #13010 4
.45 Colt #20137 E - #13782 C - #13334 4
.45 Win. Mag. #20221 E - #13782 L - #12703 1
.454 Casull #20137 E - #13782 C - #13334 4
.50 AE #21428 50AE - #14465 50 - #13147 4
Rifle Calibers
.17 Rem. #20203 O - #12921 3 - #13684 3
.218 Bee #20151 A - #13426 O - #12013 3
.219 Zipper/Donaldson #20180 A - #13426 7 - #12501 4
.220 Swift #20154 A - #13426 L - #12703 1
.221 Rem. Fire Ball #20128 A - #13426 3 - #13684 3
.222 Rem. - Rem. Mag. #20128 A - #13426 3 - #13684 3
.22-250 #20145 A - #13426 1 - #13692 1
.223 - 5.56 mm #20128 A - #13426 3 - #13684 3
.224 Wby. Mag. #20235 A - #13426 A - #13211 2
.225 Win. #20181 A - #13426 L - #12703 1
.22 Hornet - K Hornet #20150 A - #13426 E - #12957 8
.22 Rem. Jet #20165 A - #13426 2 - #13751 2
.22 Savage Hi Power #20180 A - #13426 7 - #12501 4
.240 Wby. Mag. #20192 I - #13305 1 - #13692 1
.243 Win. #20192 I - #13305 1 - #13692 1
.250 Savage-.250/3000 #20147 K - #13216 1 - #13692 1
.25-06 #20147 K - #13216 1 - #13692 1
.25-20 Win. #20176 543R - #13243 O - #12013 3
.25-35 Win. #20197 K - #13216 7 - #12501 4
.256 Win. Mag. #20215 543R - #13243 2 - #13751 2
.257 Ack. Imp #20147 K - #13216 1 - #13692 1
.257 Roberts #20147 K - #13216 1 - #13692 1
.257 Wby. Mag. #20199 K - #13216 B - #13347 4
.25 Rem. #20233 K - #13216 R - #13497 2
.264 Win. Mag. #20210 Y - #12870 B - #13347 4
.270 Wby. Mag. #20196 J - #13456 B - #13347 4
.270 Win. #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
.284 Win. #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
.30 M1 Carbine #20131 C - #13564 8 - #13135 8
.300 Win. Mag. #20188 B - #13587 B - #13347 4
.30-06 #20138 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
.300 H&H Mag. #20188 B - #13587 B - #13347 4
.300 Savage #20190 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
.300 Wby. Mag. #20188 B - #13587 B - #13347 4
.303 British #20183 B - #13587 4 - #13610 4
.30-30 Win. #20139 B - #13587 7 - #12501 4
.30-338 Win. Mag. #20188 B - #13587 B - #13347 4
Conversion Powder Shellplate Locator
Rifle Calibers cont... Kit Funnel Button
.30-40 Krag #20185 B - #13587 P - #13134 4
.307 Win. #20237 B - #13587 L - #12703 1
.308 - 7.62 Nato #20130 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
.308 Norma Mag. #20188 B - #13587 B - #13347 4
.30 Herret #20214 AK - #13015 7 - #12501 4
.30 Merrill #20231 AK - #13015 L - #12703 1
.30 Rem. -32 Rem. #20184 B - #13587 R - #13497 2
.32-20 Win. #20177 S - #12845 O - #12013 3
.32-40 Win. #20139 B - #13587 7 - #12501 4
.32 H&R Mag. #20146 S - #12845 D - #13092 3
.32 Win. Sp. #20139 B - #13587 7 - #12501 4
.33 Win. #20202 Q - #13406 G - #13313 7
.338 Win. Mag. #20156 Q - #13406 B - #13347 4
.340 Wby. Mag. #20156 Q - #13406 B - #13347 4
.348 Win. #20217 P - #13187 T - #12808 7
.350 Rem. Mag. #20167 P - #13187 B - #13347 4
.356 Win. #20238 P - #13187 L - #12703 1
.357 Herrett #20172 D - #13599 7 - #12501 4
.358 Win. #20170 P - #13187 1 - #13692 1
.358 Norma Mag. #20167 P - #13187 B - #13347 4
.35 Rem. #20166 P - #13187 M - #13230 2
.35 Whelen #20170 P - #13187 1 - #13692 1
.35 Win. #20168 P - #13187 P - #13134 4
.375 H&H/Wby Mag. #20204 544R - #13531 B - #13347 4
.375 Super Mag. #20226 543V - #13344 7 - #12501 4
.378 Wby. Mag. #21665 544378 - #15010 G - #13313 7
.38-40 Win. #20178 W - #13600 N - #10004 4
.38-55 Win. Ballard #20226 543V - #13344 7 - #12501 4
.444 Marlin #20164 543X - #12920 N - #10004 4
.44-40 Win. #20206 G - #13427 N - #10004 4
.45-70 Gov’t #20143 543T - #13407 G - #13313 7
.416 Rem. Mag. #20771 544RM - #13415 B - #13347 4
.455 Webley #20137 E - #13782 C - #13334 4
.458 Win. Mag. #20161 543T - #13407 B - #13347 4
.460 Wby. Mag. #21664 544460 - #15009 G - #13313 7
6.5-06 #20207 Y - #12870 1 - #13692 1
6.5 x 52 Carcano #20208 Y - #12870 M - #13230 2
6.5 mm x 54 Mann-Scho #20208 Y - #12870 M - #13230 2
6.5 x 55 Swed Mauser #20207 Y - #12870 1 - #13692 1
6.5 Japanese Arisaka #20209 Y - #12870 L - #12703 1
6.5mm Rem. Mag. #20210 Y - #12870 B - #13347 4
6mm Rem.- .244 #20192 I - #13305 1 - #13692 1
7mm-08 Rem. #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
7.62 x 39 Russian #20213 AK - #13015 A - #13211 2
7.62 x 54 Russian #20346 B - #13587 G - #13313 7
7x 57 Mauser #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
7 x 64 Brenneke #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
7.7 Japanese Arisaka #20130 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
7mm BR #20216 N - #13014 1 - #13692 1
7mm Ex - 280 Rem. #20142 J - #13456 1 - #13692 1
7mm Rem. Mag. #20140 J - #13456 B - #13347 4
7mm Merrill #20230 N - #13014 L - #12703 1
7mm Int’l Rimmed #20223 N - #13014 7 - #12501 4
7mm TCU #20141 N - #13014 3 - #13684 3
7mm Wby. Mag. #20196 J - #13456 B - #13347 4
7-30 Waters #20223 J - #13456 7 - #12501 4
7.5 x 55 Swiss #20130 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
7.65 Bel-Arg #20130 B - #13587 1 - #13692 1
8mm Mauser #20201 M - #12963 1 - #13692 1
8mm Rem. Mag. #20155 M - #12963 B - #13347 4
RL 450 & RL 550B Caliber Conversion Chart
Kits include shellplate, locator buttons and flow thru powder funnel.
Shellplate 1 Locator Button 1
Powder Funnel
.22-250 A - #13426
.30-06 B - #13587
.300 Savage AK - #13015
.308 - 7.62 Nato B - #13587
7.7 Japanese Arisaka B - #13587
7.5 x 55 Swiss B - #13587
7.65 Bel-Arg B - #13587
.45 ACP E - #13782
.240 Wby. Mag. I - #13305
.243 Win. I - #13305
6mm Rem.- .244 I - #13305
.270 Win. J - #13456
.284 Win. J - #13456
7mm-08 Rem. J - #13456
7x 57 Mauser J - #13456
7 x 64 Brenneke J - #13456
7mm Ex - 280 Rem. J - #13456
.250 Savage-.250/3000 K - #13216
.25-06 K - #13216
.257 Ack. Imp K - #13216
.257 Roberts K - #13216
8mm Mauser M - #12963
7mm BR N - #13014
7mm Int’l N - #13014
.358 Win. P - #13187
.35 Whelen P - #13187
6.5-06 Y - #12870
6.5 x 55 Swed Mauser Y - #12870
Shellplate 2 Locator Button 2
.256 Win. Mag. 543R - #13243
.22 Rem. Jet A - #13426
.38 Sp.-.357 Mag./Max. D - #13599
Shellplate 3 Locator Button 3
.221 Rem. Fire Ball A - #13426
.222 Rem. - Rem. Mag. A - #13426
.223 - 5.56 mm A - #13426
.380 ACP F - #13806
7mm TCU N - #13014
.17 Rem. O - #12921
Shellplate 4 Locator Button 4
.303 British B - #13587
.44 Sp. - Mag. G - #13427
Shellplate 5 Locator Button 2
9x25 Dillon/.357 Sig. F - #13806
10mm/.40 S&W W - #13600
Shellplate 5 Locator Button 3
9x18 9 - #14980
.41 AE AE - #13180
.30 Luger C - #13564
.30 Mauser C - #13564
9mm Luger F - #13806
.38 Super F - #13806
Shellplate 6 Locator Button 1
.41 Mag. H - #13240
Shellplate 7 Locator Button 4
Powder Funnel
.375 Super Mag. 543V - #13344
.38-55 Win. Ballard 543V - #13344
.219 Zipper A - #13426
.219 Donaldson A - #13426
.22 Savage Hi Power A - #13426
.30 Herret AK - #13015
.30-30 Win. B - #13587
.32-40 Win. B - #13587
.32 Win. Sp. B - #13587
.357 Herrett D - #13599
7-30 Waters N - #13014
.25-35 Win. K - #13216
7mm Int’l Rimmed N - #13014
Shellplate 8 Locator Button 8
.30 M1 Carbine C - #13564
.32 ACP - 7.65mm S - #12845
.32 Short Colt S - #12845
Shellplate 50 Locator Button 4
.50 AE 50AE - #14465
Shellplate A Locator Button 2
.224 Wby. Mag. A - #13426
7.62 x 39 Russian AK - #13015
Shellplate B Locator Button 4
.458 Win. Mag. 543T - #13407
.375 H&H 544R - #13531
.375 Wby Mag. 544R - #13531
.416 Rem. Mag. 544RM - #13415
.300 Win. Mag. B - #13587
.300 H&H Mag. B - #13587
.300 Wby. Mag. B - #13587
.30-338 Win. Mag. B - #13587
.308 Norma Mag. B - #13587
.270 Wby. Mag. J - #13456
7mm Rem. Mag. J - #13456
7mm Wby. Mag. J - #13456
.257 Wby. Mag. K - #13216
8mm Rem. Mag. M - #12963
.350 Rem. Mag. P - #13187
.358 Norma Mag. P - #13187
.338 Win. Mag. Q - #13406
.340 Wby. Mag. Q - #13406
.264 Win. Mag. Y - #12870
6.5mm Rem. Mag. Y - #12870
Shellplate C Locator Button 4
.45 Colt E - #13782
.454 Casull E - #13782
.455 Webley E - #13782
Shellplate D Locator Button 3
.32 S&W Long S - #12845
.32 H&R Mag. S - #12845
Shellplate E Locator Button 8
.22 Hornet - K Hornet A - #13426
Shellplate G Locator Button 7
Powder Funnel
.45-70 Gov’t 543T - #13407
.378 Wby. Mag. 544378 - #15010
7.62 x 54 Russian B - #13587
.33 Win. Q - #13406
.460 Wby. Mag. 544460 - #15009
Shellplate H Locator Button 4
.45 Auto Rim E - #13782
Shellplate L Locator Button 1
.220 Swift A - #13426
.225 Win. A - #13426
.30 Merrill AK - #13015
.307 Win. B - #13587
.45 Win. Mag. E - #13782
7mm Merrill N - #13014
.356 Win. P - #13187
6.5 Japanese Arisaka Y - #12870
Shellplate M Locator Button 2
.35 Rem. P - #13187
6.5 x 52 Carcano Y - #12870
6.5 mm x 54 Mann-Scho Y - #12870
Shellplate N Locator Button 4
.444 Marlin 543X - #12920
.44-40 Win. G - #13427
.38-40 Win. W - #13600
Shellplate O Locator Button 3
.25-20 Win. 543R - #13243
.218 Bee A - #13426
.38 AMU F - #13806
.32-20 Win. S - #12845
Shellplate P Locator Button 4
.30-40 Krag B - #13587
.35 Win. P - #13187
Shellplate R Locator Button 2
.30 Rem. -32 Rem. B - #13587
.25 Rem. K - #13216
Shellplate T Locator Button 7
.348 Win. P - #13187
Shellplate U Locator Button 2
.38 S&W F - #13806
RL 450 & RL 550B Caliber Cross Reference Chart
17
Dillon Precision Products, Inc.
8009 E. Dillon’s Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
(480) 948-8009
FAX (480) 998-2786
Web Site: www.dillonprecision.com
E-mail: dillon@dillonprecision.com
Technical Support & Customer Service
(800) 223-4570
On the cover…
The RL 550B is pictured with optional accessories:
Strong Mount #22051
Aluminum Roller Handle #17950
Low Powder Sensor #16306
Bullet Tray #22214
Other accessories available for the RL 550B include:
Video Instruction Manual #14621
Machine Cover #13795
Maintenance Kit & Spare Parts Kit #97016
The Blue Press, Dillon’s monthly catalog, has a complete listing
of accessories available for all machines.
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