Is this modification still structurally sound?

[Smols]

A guy local to me is asking $350 for this Tiagra 30 2-speed that has had the top bar on the frame removed. Is this a viable modification to this reel? Is there potential for this frame to fail during a fight with a big tuna with the cross bar removed? If so, what is the biggest fish you would feel comfortable targeting on this reel?

Thanks,
Smols

[alantani]

i wondered when someone would do that.  i think it should be fine.  the shimano is a "pull" system, so the frame only has to support a lateral load, not lateral and axial in "push" systems such as in the old penn internationals.  any possibility of a close up photo of the top?  i'm curious to see what they did to support the lugs. 

[alantani]

and a 100 pound topshot with 35 pound of drag should be within range for this reel. 

[Smols]

Wow, I'm shocked to hear that you think this is still a 100 lb reel, Alan. Not arguing with your opinion in any way because I don't know. Just surprised that shimano would not have designed the frame without the bar if it is strong enough without it.

It looks like it was cut flush with the inside line of the frame and there is still some material for the lug screw.

[David Hall]

Nice prototype topless frame.  It takes some kinda stones to chop up a frame like that. Must have been a rich man.

[handi2]

I personally wouldn't pay that much for it but I do think it will work fine. For $350.00 there are plenty of options on other reels.

[Robert Janssen]

the shimano is a "pull" system, so the frame only has to support a lateral load,... 

You're thinking of the TLDs. The Tiagras are most definitely of a push system; for most intents and purposes a mechanical knock-off of the Penn Internationals.

This i thought was a not at all uncommon mod among long-range folks, when topless reels were desired. I know it has been discussed before. It would seem probable the owner considered this before he did it, and added the Tom Testa handle. I should think it would hold, there being little difference between this an another born topless frame.

.

[alantani]

crud, doc, you're right again! 

[MarkT]

I think Cal's offers removal of the top bar as an option.  I've seen reels with it removed before. I don't think it weakens the reel much at all.  There's a lot of metal there.

[Smols]

I personally wouldn't pay that much for it but I do think it will work fine. For $350.00 there are plenty of options on other reels.

Handi2, you bring up an interesting point. What 100lb, 2 Speed tuna reels do you like in the $300-350 price range?

[handi2]

Well a little over the $350.00...

I really like my Makaira reels. The 20II would be plenty. You may be able to find the gold series of reels at a discount. That's what mine are.

Keith

[handi2]

I just checked the prices and wow I didn't know they were still that costly.

Maybe someone else can recommend a similar reel in your price range.

[foakes]

The reel will hold with no issues --

As to value, to me it would be worth market price -- minus the cost of a new frame.

That doesn't mean I would replace the frame -- that is just what I would reasonably feel is fair to all concerned.

Best,

Fred

[erikpowell]

Bula all,
That's a nice setup Smols, I've seen one like that before. I'd have no qualms fishing 80lb-100lb with that.
Shimano claims 100lb range on the Tiagra30LRS.
How old is it? I'd imagine it has some groceries too LRS cam and been blueprinted too.
And $350 is close to ½ the price of new, not including upgrades, and still ½ the price of a comparable new Avet or Accurate.

I'm glad Doc chimed in to ID that upgraded handle, I was immediately wondering who must have made that arm.

I'd target just about anything that swims with that reel  

I think you have a good score there.

Erik

[Smols]

Thanks for all the feedback, I appreciate all of you experts weighing in! I would prefer to buy a mak 20 but it's out of my budget right now. Going to try to look at this reel next week.

Smols