Maintaining your Frankford Arsenal reloading equipment is crucial for its longevity and the consistent production of high-quality ammunition. A clean press and case prep tools are essential for preventing malfunctions and ensuring the safety of your reloading process. This guide details the best cleaning process for your Frankford Arsenal equipment, covering everything from simple wipe-downs to deep cleaning procedures. We'll even touch upon preventative maintenance to keep your equipment running smoothly for years to come.
Understanding Frankford Arsenal's Cleaning Needs
Before we dive into the specific cleaning process, it's important to understand what you're dealing with. Frankford Arsenal products, known for their robust construction, still accumulate residue from various components during the reloading process. This residue can include:
- Powder residue: Unburnt powder particles are highly abrasive and can damage delicate parts.
- Primer residue: Primers leave behind a corrosive mixture that can lead to rust and malfunctions if left unattended.
- Lubricant: Case lubricants, while necessary for efficient sizing, can build up and gum up moving parts.
- Metal shavings: The sizing process, especially with hard cases, can produce small metal shavings that accumulate within the press.
Regular cleaning prevents these residues from causing damage or impacting the accuracy and reliability of your reloading process.
The Frankford Arsenal Cleaning Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The cleaning process will vary slightly depending on the specific Frankford Arsenal equipment you own (e.g., Platinum Series, Classic Series), but the general principles remain the same. We will outline a comprehensive cleaning schedule that addresses the most commonly used components.
1. Initial Wipe-Down After Each Reloading Session
This is the most crucial step. Immediately after finishing a reloading session, wipe down all visible surfaces of your press and case prep tools with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with a gun cleaning solvent like Hoppe's No. 9 or Ballistol. This removes loose powder and debris before they can set. Pay close attention to:
- Ram: Carefully wipe down the ram and the area around the ram assembly.
- Shell Plate: Remove and clean the shell plate thoroughly.
- Die Bodies: Wipe down the die bodies and threads.
- Case Prep Tools: Clean any case lubricant or debris from your case trimmer, chamfer tool, and other case preparation tools.
This quick clean prevents the buildup of significant amounts of residue, making deep cleaning much easier.
2. Weekly Deep Cleaning
Once a week (or more frequently if you reload heavily), perform a more thorough cleaning. This will involve disassembling certain parts for more effective cleaning:
- Dismantle where possible: Carefully consult your owner's manual for guidance on disassembling specific components of your Frankford Arsenal press and tools. Many parts can be safely disassembled for a more thorough cleaning.
- Brush and Solvent: Use a stiff-bristled brush, like a brass brush, along with your chosen solvent, to remove stubborn residue from crevices and hard-to-reach areas. Pay particular attention to the areas around the shell plate and ram.
- Compressed Air: Use compressed air to blow out any remaining loose debris. Be sure to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
- Reassemble Carefully: Once everything is clean and dry, carefully reassemble your equipment, following the instructions in your owner's manual.
Example: Cleaning the Frankford Arsenal Platinum Series Press
The Platinum Series press can be partially disassembled for deeper cleaning. After the initial wipe-down, the shell plate and ram can be removed to better clean those critical areas. Using a brush and solvent, ensure the ram's surface and the inside of the shell plate are spotless.
3. Monthly Inspection and Lubrication
Once a month, conduct a complete inspection of your equipment. Check for any signs of wear and tear, including:
- Inspect for damage: Look for bent or broken parts, cracks, or excessive wear on any moving components.
- Lubricate moving parts: Lightly lubricate moving parts with a high-quality gun lubricant. Avoid using excessive lubrication.
- Tighten any loose screws: Check all screws and bolts to ensure they are tight.
Regular lubrication prevents friction and wear, prolonging the lifespan of your equipment.
4. Annual Deep Cleaning and Maintenance
Once a year, perform a very thorough deep cleaning. This may involve removing and cleaning all components that are easily disassembled. Consider replacing worn parts or bushings as necessary. Consulting a professional gunsmith for a service might be worthwhile if you are uncomfortable with more advanced maintenance.
Preventative Maintenance for Frankford Arsenal Equipment
Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your Frankford Arsenal reloading equipment in top condition:
- Store in a dry environment: Store your equipment in a cool, dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Use proper lubricants: Use only high-quality gun lubricants.
- Avoid dropping or impacting equipment: Handle your equipment with care to avoid damage.
- Regularly clean your dies: Dies should be cleaned after each reloading session to remove any excess lubricant or residue.
By following these tips, you can significantly extend the life of your Frankford Arsenal reloading equipment and ensure its continued reliable performance.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Here are a few common problems you might encounter and how to address them during your cleaning process:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Binding Ram | Powder residue buildup | Thorough cleaning with brush and solvent |
| Shell Plate Issues | Debris in shell plate | Disassemble, clean thoroughly, and reassemble carefully |
| Inconsistent Sizing | Dirty or damaged sizing die | Clean die thoroughly; replace if damaged |
| Poor Primer Seating | Debris in primer pocket | Clean thoroughly, potentially use a primer pocket cleaner |
Remember always to consult your Frankford Arsenal owner's manual for detailed instructions on disassembling, cleaning, and maintaining your specific equipment. Safety is paramount. Always follow proper safety procedures and precautions when handling firearms and reloading equipment.