help setting RCBS 1010

[MC0861]

Just picked up a used RCBS 1010 scale and I don't seen to be getting it to zero.

I have read the instructions and the scale seems to be in good shape.

I am new to reloading and am guessing operator error.

When I set it up on a level surface I cannot get the scale to read Zero.

I set everything to zero and try to adjust the leveling foot but the indicator remains below zero. If I tap it the pointer returns to the below zero position.

I have tried weighing some 125gr jacketed bullets and it says they weight about 122-123grs.

I will try checking it against a friend’s scale or using some check weights but just wondering if anyone has some tips or tricks.

Thanks

 

[MC0861]

Just picked up a used RCBS 1010 scale and I don't seen to be getting it to zero.

I have read the instructions and the scale seems to be in good shape.

I am new to reloading and am guessing operator error.

When I set it up on a level surface I cannot get the scale to read Zero.

I set everything to zero and try to adjust the leveling foot but the indicator remains below zero. If I tap it the pointer returns to the below zero position.

I have tried weighing some 125gr jacketed bullets and it says they weight about 122-123grs.

I will try checking it against a friend’s scale or using some check weights but just wondering if anyone has some tips or tricks.

Thanks

 

[Paul5388]

Try shimming the rear of the scale somewhat. I use the plastic out of an old primer box and then adjust the pointer on my 505 to where it reads zero.

Other than that, it would probably need add some ballast in the pan holder.

I think the shim is easier and it doesn't present a chance to mess the scale up.

I may have told you to shim the wrong end, but the principle is the same regardless of which end is shimmed.

One other thing, make sure the top of the beam is clean. It doesn't take much weight from dust and debris to make the scale read too light even with everything zeroed.

 

[R. Walter]

Make sure that the area around the pivots on which the swing arm of the scale joins the base of the scale is cleaned and maybe lubed just a tiny bit. Also the check weights are essential down the road, maybe sooner than later.

 

[MC0861]

Thanks for the help.

It sounds like this is not an unheard of problem to encounter. So I will give it a better cleaning and then try to shim it.

I think I will take it to a friends house who has been reloading for 30+ yrs. He will have a couple of scales and check weights we can try.

 

[Paul5388]

There is very little that can go wrong with a mechanical scale.

If you have any questions about the scale, the operating instructions are located as a download at this site.

http://www.rcbs.com/general/downloads.aspx

Just scroll down the page until you get to the scales.

 

[MC0861]

Thanks.

I am printing the instructions.

If I move the micro adjustment to -.3 it balances at zero but the instructions say that is not an accurate adjustment.

The mico adjustment seems to ride on a brass screw. I'm guessing moving that out away from the pointer would be the way to adjust it.

I think I'll wait and see what I can sort out with some check weights and another scale to compare with.

Probably give RCBS a call too.

 

[Paul5388]

Probably give RCBS a call too.

That's a good move!

They have always been very helpful when I've called.

Just make sure it isn't covered in their instructions. It's embarrassing for them to say, "That is covered on page XX of our instructions."

 

[Dale53]

Always check a used scale for burrs on the pivots. They should be knife edged with NO burrs. Be sure the "V" where the knives ride is absolutely clean.

I do NOT oil my pivots as oil draws dust like a magnet and can affect the reading.

Make sure the scale is level. Be sure and read it at eye level as parallax can be a real problem.

Some have built a small portable shelf to raise the scale up to eye level for more accurate reading. I put mine in the bottom shelf of a wall cabinet right over my loading area.. It kept it dust free, out of danger banging it around, and at eye level).

FWIW
Dale53

 

[OU812]

I know this is more then likely a dumb idea since it is only 2 grains off but do you have the powder pan on the scale?

I have tried to zero my scale without it with no luck.

 

[Paul5388]

Some have built a small portable shelf to raise the scale up to eye level for more accurate reading.

This is a 505, but the principle is the same.

You can see the primer box shim on the left end. The building is running downhill to the left, so what else could I do? Surely you wouldn't think leveling the building is easier than a shim!

 

[canoe on the yukon]

I use an RCBS 1010 scale.When you say that the surface is level,do you actually check with a carpenter's level (with a bubble in it)?I have seldom found perfectly level places and using a shim is fairly normal for me.

 

[MC0861]

I just did some experimenting.

I shimmed the pan side of the scale until it zeroed. It took a 13/16 stack of paper.

Paul thanks for the picture. It seemed strange to shim so much but it is probably not that much more than yours.

I then marked and weighted three different bullets.

I then added them up in dfferent combination:
1&2&3, 1&3, 2&3, 1&2
The combined bullets were within .1-.2 of the predicted sums.

I will do some more experiment with my friends check weights and another scale but it looks consitant.

I am happy.

I will let you know what I sort out.

 

[Paul5388]

It took a 13/16 stack of paper.

What I didn't mention was the other primer box under the left leg of the stand! Yep, the building is that far out of level and probably gets worse every time it rains.

I need to put up a dam to keep water from running under the building, but that's a chore for my grandsons to accomplish for me.