Installing harness lugs Penn 16VIS

[CaptPat]

Looking for guidance on the procedure to install the harness lugs on a new Penn 16VIS.

Thanks in advance

[alantani]

i checked and schematics are not available on the mysticparts.com website yet.  https://www.mysticparts.com/PennParts/International.aspx  for the VSX, it involves removal of both side plates.  putting them back together, there may be bellevilles on the right side and anti-reverse dogs on the left to deal with.  just not sure.  




"Edited as per Moderators to correct Scott's Bait & Tackles old online store over to their new store name Mystic Reel Parts / www.mysticparts.com"

[CaptPat]

Thanks, I'll give it try.  Sure wish they'd install these at the factory instead of leaving it for the user...

[akfish]

I just got a 20VISX and it looks very much like you have to remove the side plates to install the harness lugs. Each lug has a couple internal posts as well as an external screw so I can't imagine how to install the lugs without taking the reel apart. I'm going to install the handle side lug as soon as I get the @#%* cast off my hand. If you can wait a week or two, I'll post detailed instructions once I do mine.

[CaptPat]

I'll wait to see your write up, I'm not in a hurry.

[akfish]

I just installed the handle side harness lug on my new 20VISX. It's simple, but you do need to remove the side plates. To install the handle side lug: Put the reel in free spool, then remove the 4 torx head side plate screws. The right side plate will come off along with the spool. Remove the spacer and replace it with the harness lug. Remember to grease liberally and install the harness lug so that it sheds the line (tilts inward slightly). Then apply a thin coat of grease to the edge of the frame, carefully fit the handle side and spool to the frame, grease and reinstall the 4 side plate screws. The only moderately tricky part is getting the spool and right side plate to fit to the frame. It just takes a bit of jiggling.

I did not install the left harness lug -- I need only one so I can clip my rod to a shoulder strap while fishing -- but the left hand lug is easier if anything, although again you must remove the left hand side plate to do it.

I believe Penn ships the reels without the harness lugs installed because many people -- at least on the West Coast -- use the rail, not a harness. Whatever, it's nice to have the option of zero, one or two lugs.

BTW: My early impressions of the reel are all good: Amazing free spool, silent dogs, plenty of smooth drag. While called at "20" it is almost identical in size to my Avet EX30/2 -- but with more drag and, believe it or not, better free spool out of the box. The two speed shifting mechanism is a distinct improvement over earlier Internationals. I like the gearing -- 4.1:1 and 1.4:1 -- gives speed and power. The handle is excellent. I've yet to take it fishing but until I do, I give it the highest possible recommendation!

[CaptPat]

Very helpful, thanks

[mizmo67]

We are working on the new series of parts, getting them online.

I'll have to bump up getting the schematics on there if I haven't already. A lot going on with fixing links in the new website (and in here) since I broke a lot of them.