Unclogging a Lee bottom pour

[JDBraddy]

My lee bottom pour flow has slowed to a slow drip, I suspect it is clogged with debris. The lead was hot, adjusted the screw, tried poking a wire through the hole. ALL TO NO AVAIL.

There is 15-18lbs of lead in the pot, don't want to try pouring the molten lead out the top, resorted to using a dipper to cast, but would be a real chore to bail it out with essentially a spoon.

What's the best way to unclog the valve with the pot full?

 

[leadhoarder]

A finishing nail held by long nose vice grips works for me. Some drips out while cleaning it out.

 

[deerstalkert]

welding torch wire cleaners work on one of mine.
the other i opened up one time and a 4d nail held in forceps works well in that one.
usually it is Sulphur and heavier metals that plug the orifice. when you get it flowing, drain it completely and really clean the pot.

 

[French Colonial]

Buy a ladle and leave it plugged.

 

[dave951]

Empty it. Use a drill bit to clear the hole. Do NOT use the bit in a drill. Just twisting it with your fingers will clean it just fine. Unfortunately, it's a thing you'll have to do from time to time.

 

[Maven]

Or, you can plug it permanently and convert to ladle pouring. Lots of disagreement about casting with a ladle, but it has worked for me for > 50 yrs.