I bought some Duke #4 traps, and I can’t get anything past 2 lbs. I’ve even broke one brass screw trying. Tried another trap, 2 lbs. what am I not doing correct??

Try adding a washer between the pan and pan post when you tighten it. And use a little heat to melt the wax out of that area if you have waxed them, even roughen the surfaces with sand paper.

… may need to squeeze the pan post closer together with a pair of vice grip pliers

make sure the pan notch and dog end are square.

Don't worry about it they will work just fine the way they are.......jk

^^^^
Yes, with prices of skunks and maybe fox being worth more than coyotes 2 lbs is plenty. Some fox trappers would say its too high.

You’re way over thinking it. 2# is more than you need. Set heavy and don’t worry about it…let the sets work for you and let God sort them out.

pan tension is over rated. fast closing is more important. 2 pounds of dirt cover is a lot

I don’t think you set the tension to keep the dirt from throwing the trap..

If the trap is fast and stays set your golden. To reiterate, if the trap is fast.

Why I 4 coil all coyote traps now!

4 coil also adds pan tension. If its a dog on trap it will work with a completely loose pan like you often get after several catches

Light pan tension will catch about anything that steps on it. I prefer enough pan tension to keep cottontails and pack rats from plugging my sets.

After the set soaks a week or two I'll
bet it doubles if measured in the set.

I like a couple pounds on mine to reduce catching myself.

I agree almost completely, except for the fact that in Virginia, when we pull out the plars, we prefer to mash stuff closer together.

Dont squeeze the pan post together add a washer or even one to each side so the pan contact IS CONSISTENT through the pan movement. If you have Charlie Dobbins Adjusting leg-hold traps he explains it in detail

I like pan tension too but don't dwell on it. Just use my thumb to gauge it. Two pounds would be fine for me. If the pan wont wobble side to side I wouldn't fix what aint broke. After a few catches if it loosens up I dont fool with it while still using. If it wont stay set I change it out. Go through them all when I get time.