Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Spinning Reel Rebuild Tutorials and Questions => D.A.M. Quick => Topic started by: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 04:41:54 PM

Title: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 04:41:54 PM
   I've been dying to get my hands on one of these little marvels. If there was ever a perfectly designed reel, this tiny DAM Quick might be the one. Every aspect of it's design seems to be right, its hard to pick on this one. I started with a reel in good condition, basically just dirty. The handle was so stiff it barely turned. Fred has warned of this many times...the old grease used on these reels dries up. The seller described it as "action is tight but very smooth". Colorful description...HA!

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4613/25038345837_75e7115fa7_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/E9y4TT)

   Inside it looks as expected, dark brown original grease. This grease will fool you. It looks wet, like it's fresh, but a closer look reveals the truth.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4659/39909923871_61a97016bb_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23NGMVH)

   Picking at the old grease with my exacto knife pops it off the gear, like old paint, just chips right off.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4670/25038345457_d13056c614_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/E9y4Mk)

   Here's a real head scratcher, the photo below compares the 265 Microlite's drag washer to the much larger 270 Super's washer. Yes...you are seeing correctly...do not adjust your set. Although the 270's washer appears minimal, it actually develops 10-12lbs. of smooth power, adequate for a reel designed to fish 20-25lb. mono. I'll have to admit, the little Microlite's washer looks like it would be much more at home in that big 270 spool. This typifies DAM Quick drag technology, almost every model has a unique drag design. There are multi disc designs, single disc, some even have hex drags. Much different than say Penn...who made dozens of models with the exact same 3-stack drag. This is one of the points that makes DAM Quick reels so interesting.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/39909922231_de49b6cbee_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23NGMrr)

   Since I'll be fishing this little guy in an environment where a lunker could grab the bait, I decided to replace that leather drag washer with a Carbontex. It looked like a Penn #6-309 size was a dead ringer, but it was actually about a millimeter to large. Would you believe that kept it from fitting in the spool? Tight specs...a DAM Quick staple. I used the metal washer to trim the Carbontex.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4716/39909922931_771305f7a3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23NGMDv)

   Here's the drag components polished up and ready to smear with Cal's grease. Question...why are the wave washers always so crusty? It seems like every reel I service the wave/spring washer is rusted, corroded, and has chrome peeling off.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4629/25038345167_3defe41dec_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/E9y4Gk)

   Ahh...the handle...looks clean enough eh? Let's try applying some Brasso, a little polishing can make a big difference in these handles.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4701/39909921341_f1f349fa25_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23NGMb6)

   Voila! Now it pops...almost looks chromed.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4752/39199297154_7a4b1618ee_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22HUDmW)

   Big difference under the hood too. I used Ardent Reel Butter on the gears and CorrosionX HD on the bearing and bushings.

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4650/39199298454_8e44cc9ea2_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/22HUDKm)

   I'm really happy with the outcome. I have a rod on the way for it, need to decide what line I want to use, I'll post updates. 8)

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4626/39877321272_867eb3ec9b_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23KPGiW)

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4674/25038344267_c9a3ccb77d_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/E9y4qP)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on January 26, 2018, 05:05:02 PM
Perfect job, Mike —

The light weight, metal spool, double supported main, steel worm drive perfectly inline with center axis of reel and drive train, large bearing, along with good design and appearance — make this one of my favorites.

These were not inexpensive reels in their day — circa 1960.

100 yards of 4 pound test, 5' Fenwick or lite Uglystik — unbeatable, IMO.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Shark Hunter on January 26, 2018, 05:14:53 PM
Solid Mo. ;)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: thorhammer on January 26, 2018, 05:16:45 PM
Fine work brother! i'm in the middle of a honey-do and now i want to go the shop into that box of Quicks what's been staring me down with a stink-eye!
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Tightlines667 on January 26, 2018, 05:31:43 PM
Great looking little reel!
Good work on the restoration!

This reminds me, I forgot to follow up with Fred about acquiring one of these for myself.  Fred, I sent you a PM.

John
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Midway Tommy on January 26, 2018, 05:34:28 PM
That's a beauty, Mike! I've always like the working and feel of the Microlite a little better than the 110, 110N & their successors. To me it just feels more like what an UL should be verses the later versions.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: swill88 on January 26, 2018, 05:47:07 PM
Thanks for showing this Mike!
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: xjchad on January 26, 2018, 05:53:14 PM
Really nice!
I've been looking for a good deal on a classic UL reel.  This is now at the top of my list!
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Captain64-200 on January 26, 2018, 05:58:02 PM
That's a beautiful little reel  and the internals are superb too ...
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on January 26, 2018, 06:08:05 PM
Quote from: Tightlines666 on January 26, 2018, 05:31:43 PM
Great looking little reel!
Good work on the restoration!

This reminds me, I forgot to follow up with Fred about acquiring one of these for myself.  Fred, I sent you a PM.

John

PM responded to, John — Thanks!

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 06:08:47 PM
   Thanks so much folks! Hey Tommy, like Fred mentioned, that double supported main just ruins flex's day...hee hee! You're right, this reel has feel. This reel is solid, rock solid. On my reel, I noted the bushings for these supports were a tight fit, not much play. This is great, but when greased, it actually made the reel a bit stiff. I substituted CorrosionX HD and it feels more free. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on January 26, 2018, 06:28:36 PM
Quote from: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 06:08:47 PM
On my reel, I noted the bushings for these supports were a tight fit, not much play. This is great, but when greased, it actually made the reel a bit stiff. I substituted CorrosionX HD and it feels more free. 8)

You may be doing this already, Mike —but just a simple hint for others...

On the bushings, the tolerances are indeed tight — I chuck up a 1/8" bit in a drill, wrap "0000" steel wool around the bit — then run it through the bushings for about 30 seconds, or so — rinse the body and bushings off to remove any tiny bits of SW — then just a drop or two of synthetic oil on the shafts will cause it to be smoother than when new — with absolutely 0 slop.

The built in and German engineered tolerances are designed to last nearly forever without any further addressing.  But even after cleaning as we normally do, and a drop or two of oil — there is still a microscopic buildup that may slow the gears.

This simple process takes care of that issue —and makes the reel better than new.

Be careful of too much grease or oil.  One drop of oil in the exact right spot — is much better than 10 sloppy drops.  Small, freshwater reels do not need the excess lube like their saltwater cousins.  Yours looks about right.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 07:49:22 PM
Quote from: foakes on January 26, 2018, 06:28:36 PM
On the bushings, the tolerances are indeed tight — I chuck up a 1/8" bit in a drill, wrap "0000" steel wool around the bit — then run it through the bushings for about 30 seconds, or so — rinse the body and bushings off to remove any tiny bits of SW — then just a drop or two of synthetic oil on the shafts will cause it to be smoother than when new — with absolutely 0 slop.

   Excellent tip Fred! I seem to remember seeing you do this on the worm drive too, where the spool shaft passes through. Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: happyhooker on January 26, 2018, 08:34:34 PM
It's a nice 'un, for sure.

Frank
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Midway Tommy on January 26, 2018, 09:29:52 PM
Quote from: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 07:49:22 PM
Quote from: foakes on January 26, 2018, 06:28:36 PM
On the bushings, the tolerances are indeed tight — I chuck up a 1/8" bit in a drill, wrap "0000" steel wool around the bit — then run it through the bushings for about 30 seconds, or so — rinse the body and bushings off to remove any tiny bits of SW — then just a drop or two of synthetic oil on the shafts will cause it to be smoother than when new — with absolutely 0 slop.

  Excellent tip Fred! I seem to remember seeing you do this on the worm drive too, where the spool shaft passes through. Thanks for sharing.

I take a similar approach but use my SS & Brass valve brush set. They quickly remove any old residue which helps free things up and usually makes them run really smooth.
(https://alantani.com/gallery/34/17004_03_02_21_5_05_30_343221522.jpeg)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: David Hall on January 26, 2018, 09:47:21 PM
All these great tips on one thread?
What a beauty of a quick you restored Mo. 
looks like it just came out the box.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Ruffy on January 27, 2018, 03:51:05 AM
I see that these reels run the spool oscillation off a second gear connected to the pinion down the bottom. How does this compare for line lay compared to a 420SS where the oscillation is off the main gear? My 420SS is my go to light spinning reel, are these considered much of an upgrade?

Cheers,
Andrew
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on January 27, 2018, 06:29:26 AM
Quote from: Ruffy on January 27, 2018, 03:51:05 AM
I see that these reels run the spool oscillation off a second gear connected to the pinion down the bottom. How does this compare for line lay compared to a 420SS where the oscillation is off the main gear? My 420SS is my go to light spinning reel, are these considered much of an upgrade?

Cheers,
Andrew

Those are both great systems, Andrew — just different — two great reels.

Others in this class would include the Penn 716 also.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: handyandy on February 01, 2018, 04:59:04 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on January 26, 2018, 09:29:52 PM
Quote from: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 07:49:22 PM
Quote from: foakes on January 26, 2018, 06:28:36 PM
On the bushings, the tolerances are indeed tight — I chuck up a 1/8" bit in a drill, wrap "0000" steel wool around the bit — then run it through the bushings for about 30 seconds, or so — rinse the body and bushings off to remove any tiny bits of SW — then just a drop or two of synthetic oil on the shafts will cause it to be smoother than when new — with absolutely 0 slop.

   Excellent tip Fred! I seem to remember seeing you do this on the worm drive too, where the spool shaft passes through. Thanks for sharing.

I take a similar approach but use my SS & Brass valve brush set. They quickly remove any old residue which helps free things up and usually makes them run really smooth.

Ahh another tool I will be buying lol. Don't know why I hadn't thought about one of these little brush sets sooner. Thanks for the tip tommy. Mo awesome reel love these little reels, wish one of the microlites I have started out as nice as yours. Looks like you started with a pretty mint microlite.
(http://pic20.picturetrail.com:80/VOL1312/13758868/24778273/413462600.jpg)

Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on February 13, 2018, 03:46:22 AM
   I bought a nice low cost rod for this 265, my Fenwick purse only has some lint in it right now.:D  It's an Eagle Claw IM6 graphite 6'6'' Medium, nice fast tip, should be great for fishing soft plastics. It was only $23 shipped. For line I used 15lb. TufLine Supercast hi-vis with a 10lb. mono leader. Love the hi-vis yellow for plastic worm fishin'...sometimes you may not feel a pickup but with this line you'll see it. Won't be long until ice out, can't wait to fish it. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: festus on February 13, 2018, 04:31:42 AM
Great rod to make the combo.  I see a lot of difference in the gearing of this and the 110.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Midway Tommy on February 13, 2018, 04:35:39 AM
Nice combo, Mike! That rod should do you just fine! Once you get to IM6 or 7 it's tough to see much difference until you get clear up into the Avid/Legend or GLX/NRX range.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on March 27, 2018, 03:41:40 AM
Quote from: foakes on January 26, 2018, 05:05:02 PM
The light weight, metal spool, double supported main, steel worm drive perfectly inline with center axis of reel and drive train, large bearing, along with good design and appearance — make this one of my favorites.

   I have to agree Fred, I'm really starting to like this Microlite, it definitely is an excellent design. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on May 25, 2018, 05:10:00 PM
Quote from: David Hall on January 26, 2018, 09:47:21 PM
All these great tips on one thread?

   That's the great thing about the members commenting on one's post...awesome info gets put into all our hands. These fine folks' sharing of info has really boosted reel collecting. It has made eBay a fortune too...those chumps should offer senior reel collectors a discount! ;D
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on August 09, 2018, 02:38:24 PM
   I have a situation with this reel that I could use some help with. The line was spooling on too far to the back of the spool. There are two washers under the spool on this reel, one brass and one Resistex. I removed the brass washer and line lay improved...but it got even better by removing both washers. The problem is...this leaves the spool riding directly on the ratchet. Is there another option to back up the spool? Can the oscillation be adjusted?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: xjchad on August 09, 2018, 02:41:42 PM
Mo,
How thick are those washers?  Can you replace both with a single, very thin, teflon washer?

Is it possible to adjust the height at which the bail roller sits?  Maybe shim the bail stop?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on August 09, 2018, 03:14:10 PM
   Yes Chad, they are thick enough that a single very thin teflon would probably work. I also just had a though as I was tasting the pot of chili I'm brewing for lunch. Maybe I could take the brass washer from between the spool and ratchet and move it under the rotor. That would be the same as shimming the bail roller out while at the same time pulling the spool back. Might even be too much adjustment. :-\
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: xjchad on August 09, 2018, 03:19:05 PM
Quote from: mo65 on August 09, 2018, 03:14:10 PM
   Yes Chad, they are thick enough that a single very thin teflon would probably work. I also just had a though as I was tasting the pot of chili I'm brewing for lunch. Maybe I could take the brass washer from between the spool and ratchet and move it under the rotor. That would be the same as shimming the bail roller out while at the same time pulling the spool back. Might even be too much adjustment. :-\

That's an interesting option as well!

And, I'm going to need a sample of that chili!  :P
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on August 09, 2018, 03:21:45 PM
Chad is on the right track, Mike —

An original 265 Microlite has only (1) very tiny, but tough resistex ring washer under the metal spool.

That is all it needs.

Make sure the spool is settling down properly, and that the bail is in proper square alignment with the spool.

Things to remember —

The tolerances are very tight on these little gems — and they do not get out of adjustment unless something gets switched, bent, tweaked improperly, or the wrong line is used.

These were designed in the early 60's to accommodate mono line.  And 4 or 6 pound mono is ideal for this reel.

There are different spool arbor ratchets — the flat one is for a later edition 265, the other one is for a early 265.  They both fit fine — but with the tight tolerances — may perform differently on the spool.  I think they are the same fit though.

These are my favorite Microlite DQ spinners.  When knowledgeable anglers study the design, engineering, robust & durable materials, center drive train balance, simple bullet-proof function, and durability over half a century (and still going strong) — they find out why this is true.

If you need any parts Mike, just let me know.

Best,

Fred

Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Decker on August 09, 2018, 03:27:34 PM
I just picked up a Microlite to be delivered today ;D   What is the "265"?  Is there more than one Microlite model?  

This will take the place of the Penn 430SS sold to AM ;)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on August 09, 2018, 03:38:59 PM
Quote from: Decker on August 09, 2018, 03:27:34 PM
I just picked up a Microlite to be delivered today ;D   What is the "265"?  Is there more than one Microlite model?  

This will take the place of the Penn 430SS sold to AM ;)

265 is just the model number assigned to this Microlite back in its 1961 introduction.

I am building out 16 of these currently for folks — out of new and restored parts.

Microlite as a name is only on one DQ reel — the 265.  And 265 is not on the outside of the reel, anyplace.  Just on some interior parts, and the bottom of the spool.

However, there are other Microlite DQ reels — 110, 110N, 1000, 1001.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on August 09, 2018, 07:43:20 PM
Quote from: foakes on August 09, 2018, 03:21:45 PM
An original 265 Microlite has only (1) very tiny, but tough resistex ring washer under the metal spool.

   So that explains it! Which one of you mugs slipped that extra brass washer in there? :D ;D ;)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Gfish on August 09, 2018, 09:19:18 PM
Very interesting the size diffrence in drag washers, from picture #4 on page 1. I recall from a lengthy thread/debate, that physically, compression force is more important to drag pressure generated, than surface area. Surface area does help with dissipating excess heat energy though.
OK, now I know where the risistex washer goes. Any way to tell that a DAM drag component is risistex? Also, would a 50 - 53 year model have a risistex washer in it?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on August 09, 2018, 09:44:01 PM
Quote from: Gfish on August 09, 2018, 09:19:18 PM
Any way to tell that a DAM drag component is risistex? Also, would a 50 - 53 year model have a risistex washer in it?

Unless they have been changed out, they are all resistex.

Resistex is just a marketing name.  These can be ID'd since they are a hard, stiff, rusty-red material.  They are pretty smooth, but will not compress out of shape.

Sometimes we try to make our reels do more than they were designed for.  But even if landing a 12 pound German Brown, on a lucky occasion — these reels are up to the task.

If you are catching large fish on a regular basis — a larger and stronger reel is advisable.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on August 09, 2018, 10:39:23 PM
Quote from: Gfish on August 09, 2018, 09:19:18 PM
Very interesting the size diffrence in drag washers, from picture #4 on page 1. I recall from a lengthy thread/debate, that physically, compression force is more important to drag pressure generated, than surface area.

   I read that same debate G. I agree compression force is a factor...but surface area is just as critical a factor. For example, take a Penn stock 3-stack, and change it to a 5-stack. All of a sudden you have 20-25lbs. max power instead of 10-15lbs. All that changed in the equation is surface area. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Gfish on August 10, 2018, 02:39:36 AM
Hmmmmm... Yeah, ok.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Danwin22 on August 10, 2018, 10:55:39 AM
Thanks for posting the picture and model number.  I had one exactly like that but it was stolen.

My only problem was when I tried 2lb line that would wrap around the drag blade when it was windy.  

I noticed later microlites have a more tapered blade so it wouldn't be a problem.


I have an excellent Fenwick Ferrralite FS55 (5'-6") UL rod waiting for the day I get a replacement 265.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on July 11, 2019, 04:33:12 PM
Quote from: Danwin22 on August 10, 2018, 10:55:39 AM
My only problem was when I tried 2lb line it would wrap around the drag blade when it was windy.  

   I get that occasionally with my 265 also...even using heavier lines.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Parge on October 09, 2019, 01:28:19 PM
Hello folks, I am new to this forum - and what a great source of info!
I recently bought a Quick Microlite 265 at a yard sale. It seems to be in good shape except for a couple of small divots in the coating on the spool. And it needs a good overall cleaning and servicing. Before I start taking it apart, does anyone have any advice for do's and dont's, lubricants, etc.? Can the spool divots be repaired?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on October 09, 2019, 02:18:16 PM
Quote from: Parge on October 09, 2019, 01:28:19 PM
Before I start taking it apart, does anyone have any advice for do's and dont's, lubricants, etc.? Can the spool divots be repaired?

   Hello, welcome aboard! You'll want to used lighter lubes on these Microlites...heavier grease gives them a stiff unnatural feel. As long as those spool "divots" don't feel sharp or snag your fingers, just leave them alone. Anything you do to smooth them usually makes them look worse. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on October 09, 2019, 02:37:59 PM
Welcome aboard, Parge!

Your 265 Microlite is basically a reel that is 60 years old +/- 2 years.

My approach would be a complete disassemble, cleaning of all parts, old grease evacuation, burnishing of the gear sleeves, reassemble using a mix of light grease and synthetic oil for the bearing and gears.

There are a few cautions on these -- the main one being -- the rotating head (rotor) is made of aluminum -- and is threaded onto the worm drive thru pinion.  These threads are very fine, and it is easy to strip them out on the rotor if not squarely rethreaded carefully.  Also, there are two versions (earlier & later) of this reel -- and each has a different worm gear thread pattern (clockwise or counterclockwise).  So make sure the removal and reattachment of the rotor is in the proper direction.

This is my personal favorite DQ reel for trout fishing.

If you get stuck -- let us know -- and if any parts are needed -- we should be able to help out.

Pics would help.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Parge on October 09, 2019, 09:22:38 PM
Thanks for the help guys! Here are a few pics before I start cleaning.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Parge on October 09, 2019, 09:31:10 PM
And a few more pics...
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Midway Tommy on October 09, 2019, 09:48:12 PM
Quote from: Parge on October 09, 2019, 01:28:19 PM
Hello folks, I am new to this forum - and what a great source of info!
I recently bought a Quick Microlite 265 at a yard sale. It seems to be in good shape except for a couple of small divots in the coating on the spool.  Can the spool divots be repaired?

It appears the nicks are on the outer lip of the spool and the metal is not chipped,. If it were mine I would sand/file the nick surfaces down until they are completely smooth. If there is still a gouged surface I would fill that little nick with JB Weld, or some other epoxy based filler, and sand/file it smooth. Whether filled or not I would then paint the entire lip with an epoxy based spray paint and then give it a clear coat. I'm anal about nicks or chips on the front lips of spools. It doesn't take much to nick mono, especially the lighter UL weights like 2, 4 & 6# test. 
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on October 09, 2019, 10:17:35 PM
I would agree with Tommy on the spool nicks --

Another way to go would be to chuck the spool up in a drill -- then smooth the nicked edge with a fine file -- followed by a fine abrasive.  Then you can either leave it as is with a shiny silver edge -- clear coat it, or paint it -- your choice.

Judging by your good photos -- it may have some slight rust issues in the area of the spool spindle insides, and some of the exterior chromed over brass pieces.  However, these should all clean up just fine.

You will need new drag components -- metal disc, leather or plastic disc, wavy spring washer for drag adjuster, and a new under spool resistex washer.

Springs look OK -- although it could probably benefit from a new bail spring.

And the trip lever looks a little ragged -- but can be cleaned and burnished -- and slightly bent back upwards 3/64" to be square (after time and the bail flipping back -- they get a little distorted -- and this could affect line lay on the spool).

"0000" steel wool, followed up with Nevr-Dull and a polishing micro fiber cloth on the handle crank.  It will shine like a mirror.

All metal non-painted parts can be cleaned with a solvent such as lacquer thinner or lighter fluid.  Mineral spirits will also work -- but is much slower.

All painted parts could be cleaned with HD Dawn dish soap overnight -- and a toothbrush -- assuming you do not have an ultrasonic cleaner.  Same with the plastic crank knob -- and any other plastic pieces.

If you decide that you need any parts -- I do have those available to members.

Looking forward to seeing it done.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on October 10, 2019, 09:42:45 AM
   I'm not seeing any nicks...just a few paint chips...and what looks like light corrosion. I guess your term "divots" means paint chips. Tommy is right though, nicks in the metal will mess up light line, and wreck casting too. Your reel looks to be in great shape Parge...nice buy! 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Parge on October 11, 2019, 01:00:14 PM
Thank you all very much for the great advice! I did indeed use the term "divot" to describe the nicks. And as far as I can tell it's just the coating and not in the metal. I will go ahead and carefully sand and refinish as suggested. The cleaning solutions info is right on time, that was going to be my next question. I plan to get started this weekend.
Mo, thanks for the parts info. Once I get the reel disassembled, I'll take more pics of the questionable parts so I can get a complete list together for an order.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Parge on October 11, 2019, 01:07:58 PM
Oops! Meant the parts response for Fred. Thanks again!
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Balvar24 on April 21, 2020, 12:48:09 AM
Quote from: mo65 on January 26, 2018, 04:41:54 PM
 


Since I'll be fishing this little guy in an environment where a lunker could grab the bait, I decided to replace that leather drag washer with a Carbontex. It looked like a Penn #6-309 size was a dead ringer, but it was actually about a millimeter to large. Would you believe that kept it from fitting in the spool? Tight specs...a DAM Quick staple. I used the metal washer to trim the Carbontex.



So here's a general question from one of the un-washed masses.  Is grease required for some drag materials?  Is a special grease required?  I've got several reels in various stages of disrepair that could benefit from a new drag washer (some are simply missing one) when the time comes.

I've got a 265 with what appears to be a teflon or plastic drag washer that seems sticky.  Would something different benefit me here?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: mo65 on April 21, 2020, 03:13:12 PM
Quote from: Balvar24 on April 21, 2020, 12:50:05 AM
   So here's a general question from one of the un-washed masses.  Is grease required for some drag materials?  Is a special grease required?  I've got several reels in various stages of disrepair that could benefit from a new drag washer (some are simply missing one) when the time comes.

   I've got a 265 with what appears to be a teflon or plastic drag washer that seems sticky (hard to get it to start spinning).  Would something different benefit me here?

   Grease isn't really required for any drag washer material...although it is a benefit to carbon fiber. Cal's drag grease is recommended, or at least a synthetic grease. Especially in big reels which see long fast runs from powerful fish. In my experience, oil is better for leather and felt...and teflon and hard fiber both perform best dry. If your teflon washer is dry and clean, yet is still sticky, look under the spool. That washer is most likely the one causing your issues. 8)
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Gfish on April 21, 2020, 03:31:31 PM
Drag grease on carbon fiber washers can also trap the carbon dust and keep it from migrating to where you don't want it to. Most of the dust can be removed by rubbing the greased-dirty washers across a clean towel on flat surface.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Balvar24 on April 21, 2020, 04:29:40 PM
As my 4-year old would say, "Instuwesting." Thanks.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: The Fishing Hobby on May 03, 2020, 02:50:08 AM
I love the Microlite reels. Very nice reels! I have one and a 110 and I like the Microlite better personally.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: jgp12000 on May 20, 2020, 08:37:22 PM
You are making me want one and I just told my wife the other day this is last reel I will ever buy ...
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: foakes on May 20, 2020, 08:43:12 PM
Quote from: jgp12000 on May 20, 2020, 08:37:22 PM
You are making me want one and I just told my wife the other day this is last reel I will ever buy ...

Hmmm...earlier in my life, I made a similar statement about this being the last reel I will ever buy -- this was the reaction I received...

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: jgp12000 on May 21, 2020, 03:32:21 PM
Fred, that pic reminded me of one my fishing buddie sent me.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: Balvar24 on May 21, 2020, 04:55:12 PM
Every time one shows up in the mail, my wife just looks at the bucket of project reels.  "Needed another one, eh?"
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: jgp12000 on May 21, 2020, 05:03:11 PM
I got a battery box of cheapo reels I need to give away,Someone could use for parts or maybe make some good,I have too many that still work.
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: thorhammer on December 15, 2020, 01:05:06 AM
Cleaning up some DQ's- until I replace with carbon fiber, what, if any grease might work for the resitex?
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: philaroman on December 15, 2020, 04:23:52 AM
Fred says DRY for smooth resitex:
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=30309.0

is there such a thing as woven resitex?
I'd guess drag-specific grease (Cals,Shim,etc.) for anything "cloth-like"
Title: Re: Mo's 265 Microlite Project
Post by: thorhammer on December 15, 2020, 02:40:40 PM
Thanks!