Thread: Lee Press breakage

Hi all
Have just had the connector for the handle on my Lee Challenger press break. It looks like it is cast and I can't find replacement parts online. The press is about 20 years old and has been well used. The Lee website doesn't seem to have any similar looking parts so can these cast pats be welded? Or does anyone have an idea where I can locate a replacement. many thanks for any assistance that is offered. Regards Ruger7mm
Attachment 274166

When I had a Lee press do the same thing @Gunworks ordered me one, I'm sure they could still get them.

Bugger. Was the retaining bolt loose perchance? I'd hate to break my old girl....

Is it steel or cast/alloy?
Weld it up if steel.
I have one steel and one alloy.

I read some where that if you email them they replace that part free. Its a known weakness i believe. Worth a try unless you need it urgently.

I had a similar issue several years ago and Titan reloading came up with the parts to convert it to the latest system, had to pay for the stuff but it was only around ten dollars plus shipping. Titan apologised because it took them a couple of days to come back to me as they had to consult Lee first to figure out what I needed

I have a crack in mine, so far the hoseclip is holding it together while I save for a new press

Originally Posted by Kobra

I had a similar issue several years ago and Titan reloading came up with the parts to convert it to the latest system, had to pay for the stuff but it was only around ten dollars plus shipping. Titan apologised because it took them a couple of days to come back to me as they had to consult Lee first to figure out what I needed

+1 for Tital Reloading. I bought my Lee stuff off them. Still receive their newletter. www.titanreloading.com

Originally Posted by Happy Jack

I have a crack in mine, so far the hoseclip is holding it together while I save for a new press

Same, hose clip set up. Was 10years ago, but got a new part from Reloaders Supplies.

Also if you are handy-ish with a file and a block of steel it's a bit of time and marking out where to file but not too hard to just make one. Won't break again like that as well...

Originally Posted by flock

Same, hose clip set up. Was 10years ago, but got a new part from Reloaders Supplies.
Attachment 274173

Can't see it on their website anymore

Originally Posted by Happy Jack

Can't see it on their website anymore

Had a look on the Lee website as well and Lee dicontinued that press in 2022 and surprisingly some spares are also no longer available. There was reference to converting to roller handle. Maybe that is an option still, but I didn't study it in detail.

My recommendation, if you cannot source something in NZ is to ask Titan for advise. They are a very substantial Lee dealer, if they cannot help things become a bit grim.

Originally Posted by Ruger7mm

Hi all
Have just had the connector for the handle on my Lee Challenger press break. It looks like it is cast and I can't find replacement parts online. The press is about 20 years old and has been well used. The Lee website doesn't seem to have any similar looking parts so can these cast pats be welded? Or does anyone have an idea where I can locate a replacement. many thanks for any assistance that is offered. Regards Ruger7mm
Attachment 274166Attachment 274167

Send it to me, I’ll braze it up and get you going until you can find a replacement.

Thank you 2post, there are some awesome people on this forum!

Originally Posted by Ruger7mm

Thank you 2post, there are some awesome people on this forum!

No worries, it’s not fixed yet but it shouldn’t be to much bother.