Frankford Arsenal X-10 ~ #3 Caliber Conversion & Shell Plate Setup

Published on August 24, 2023
Duration: 32:50

This guide details the process of converting the Frankford Arsenal X10 progressive reloading press from small primer pocket configurations to large primer pocket configurations, specifically for Shell Plate #2 which accommodates calibers like .308 Winchester. It covers the removal of existing components, installation of new pins and shell plates, and crucial steps for ensuring proper indexing and assembly. The video emphasizes careful handling of specialized screws and avoiding over-tightening to maintain the press's integrity.

Quick Summary

Converting the Frankford Arsenal X10 for large primer pockets involves removing small primer pins and the swaging die, then installing the large primer components and the correct shell plate. Proper indexing verification is crucial. It's advised to schedule conversions by primer size to optimize efficiency.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Shell Plate Unboxing
  2. 00:27Shell Plate #2 & #4 Caliber Compatibility
  3. 00:51Choosing Shell Plate #2 for .308
  4. 01:17Premium Packaging and Storage Box
  5. 01:34Shell Plate Assembly vs. Standard Shell Holder
  6. 01:52Ball Bearings and Chrome Steel Construction
  7. 02:12Value and Price of Shell Plates
  8. 02:29Converting Press from Small to Large Cases
  9. 02:42Removing the Press Head
  10. 03:10Internal Components: Light Assembly & Swaging Die
  11. 03:36Side Plates and Pins (Swaging & Priming)
  12. 04:00Adjusting Primer Pins (Small Primer Setup)
  13. 04:31Preparing Large Primer Components
  14. 04:48Installing Large Primer Swager and Primer
  15. 05:11Scheduling Primer Size Changes
  16. 05:27Removing the Retention Ring Screws
  17. 05:56Removing the Factory Shell Plate
  18. 06:13Installing Shell Plate #2
  19. 06:36Cleaning Excess Lubricant
  20. 06:56Changing Primer Pins (Small to Large)
  21. 07:32Tools for Pin Removal
  22. 08:11Shouldered Cap Screw Caution
  23. 08:37Aligning Shell Plate and Cam
  24. 08:40Seating the Shell Plate
  25. 08:55Cleaning Retainer Lubricant
  26. 09:08Press Manufacturing Date
  27. 09:29Installing the Shell Plate
  28. 09:44Torquing Screws in Crisscross Pattern
  29. 10:08Ease of Caliber Changes
  30. 10:13Changing Calibers and Primer Sizes
  31. 10:34Final Torqueing of Shell Plate Screws
  32. 11:03Importance of Proper Torque
  33. 11:15Allen Wrench as Torque Indicator
  34. 11:39Checking Index Mechanism Operation
  35. 11:49Smooth Operation and Indexing
  36. 11:70Detent Ball Engagement
  37. 11:98Factory Indexing Verification
  38. 12:03Adjusting the Index Mechanism (if needed)
  39. 12:20Instructions for Index Adjustment
  40. 12:36Perfect Indexing Confirmed
  41. 12:52Installing the Priming Assembly
  42. 12:66Large Primer Engraving
  43. 12:76Sliding in the Priming Assembly
  44. 12:88Installing Cap Screws for Priming Assembly
  45. 13:17Thread Engagement and Durability
  46. 13:46Avoiding Power Tools for Screw Installation
  47. 13:79Sufficient Torque for Holding Screws
  48. 14:08Heavy Duty Priming Assembly Tube
  49. 14:20Testing Operations at Each Step
  50. 14:34Beautiful Indexing and Gear Turning
  51. 14:52Firm Component Fit
  52. 14:62Removing the Priming Assembly
  53. 14:88Releasing the Shell Plate Retention Hook
  54. 14:97Installing the New Shell Plate
  55. 15:11Shell Plate Retention Hook Mechanism
  56. 15:31Shell Plate Latched into Place
  57. 15:43Replacing the Case Plunger
  58. 15:60Innovative Case Feed Plunger Design
  59. 15:83Applauding Outside-the-Box Engineering
  60. 15:94Hand Tightening Caution for Plastic
  61. 16:07Using Allen Wrench for Tightening
  62. 16:22No Need for Overtightening
  63. 16:30Precise Plastic Components
  64. 16:60Torque Limit with Allen Wrench
  65. 16:71Reinstalling the Tool Head
  66. 16:83Future Video Topics (Powder Charger, Case Feeder)
  67. 16:94Installing the Powder Charger
  68. 17:01Guiding the Cam into the Slot
  69. 17:14Potential for Damage if Dropped
  70. 17:26Installing the Large Cap Screw
  71. 17:31Wiping Off Shipping Lubricant
  72. 17:57Press Nearing Operational Status
  73. 17:72Stopping When Wrench Stops Turning
  74. 17:94Sufficient Torque for Cap Screw
  75. 17:98Checking Operations After Installation
  76. 18:07Importance of Full Strokes
  77. 18:18Never Half-Stroke a Progressive Press
  78. 18:23Stop if Any Resistance is Felt
  79. 18:31Consequences of Forcing Components
  80. 18:45Identifying and Fixing Resistance
  81. 18:54Leverage and Potential for Damage
  82. 18:74Troubleshooting Resistance
  83. 18:83Next Steps: Powder Charging and Case Feeding
  84. 18:93Summary of Conversion Complete
  85. 19:03Conversion from Small to Large Primers
  86. 19:13Thanks to Patreon Donors
  87. 19:23Cost of Shell Plates
  88. 19:39Anticipation of Loading Ammo
  89. 19:59Call to Action: Like, Subscribe, Bell

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I convert my Frankford Arsenal X10 for large primer pockets?

To convert your Frankford Arsenal X10 for large primer pockets, you'll need to remove the existing small primer pins and swaging die. Then, install the large primer pocket swager and primer pin from the appropriate kit. Ensure the correct shell plate for your desired caliber is installed, and verify the indexing mechanism aligns properly with the new primer components.

What calibers does Frankford Arsenal X10 Shell Plate #2 support?

Frankford Arsenal X10 Shell Plate #2 is designed to be a versatile option, supporting a range of calibers that share similar head sizes. This includes popular cartridges like .308 Winchester, 8mm Mauser, and .45 ACP, among others with comparable base dimensions.

What are the key features of the Frankford Arsenal X10 shell plates?

The Frankford Arsenal X10 shell plates are engineered with integrated ball bearings, which significantly reduce friction and ensure smooth, consistent operation. They are constructed from durable chrome steel, offering a high-quality and long-lasting component for reloading.

What is the recommended procedure for changing primer sizes on the X10?

It's recommended to schedule your reloading sessions by primer size. This means performing all conversions for large primers at one time, and then all conversions for small primers at another. This minimizes the frequency of disassembly and reassembly, saving time and effort.

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