Embarassing problem: Cannot attach handle to new Stradic Ci4+ 4000HGFB reel

[BlastingCaps]

I have an embarrassing problem--I can't get the handle on my new reel.

I bought a new Stradic CI4+ 4000 HG FB reel.  I'm left handed, so I wanted to switch the reel from right hand wind to left hand wind.  I removed the handle cap and handle. I then put the cap back on.  But when I try to screw the handle on, it won't screw in. (Yes, I'm going clockwise, but I also tried lightly going counterclockwise to seat the threads.  It didn't work.) I just can't figure out why the handle won't screw in.  I tried it on both sides, and it won't screw in on either side.

I have 4 other Stradics--including another 4000 CI4+ I've had for 2 years-- and 6 Sustains. I haven't had this problem with any of my other Shimano reels (or with an of my many other reels).  Just to check, I tried unscrewing handles and then screwing the handles on several of these reels and no problem. The handles went on easily. 

Now, here is it the really troubling thing. This reel is a replacement for another Stradic CI4+ 4000 HG FB reel. I bought that I had the same problem with. (Both came from a retailer on Amazon Prime, so it was free to return the reel.)

While I'm no machinists or professional mechanic, I have done some repairs on my older reels (e.g.,1970s era Mitchell 300s and 1970s Orvis branded spinning reels), as well as my 1970s -1990s era bicycles.  Consequently, I am at a loss as to why I am unable to screw in this handle this handle back on.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[philaroman]

1) if it's a direct drive (handle screws into the main gear)
it screws in same direction as you would crank while in use...  otherwise, how could it work

2) the screw should be two-part -- different thickness; threaded in different directions; for different ends of the main gear
...if the skinny tip is broken off, your reel is no longer ambidextrous 

[BlastingCaps]

The tip screws in directly. It isn't broken off. The handle will not thread.  I had two other people try and they, too, failed.  It's brand new--and the second reel that I've had this problem with--so this is very frustrating. I think it's time to go back to Quantum.

[Pro Reel]

The threaded part is 2 piece. If the bigger part gets unscrewed some, then the smaller part won't be long enough to grab the threads when you try to screw the handle on.Screw the bigger part up into the handle and then there will be a long enough part of the smaller threaded section sticking out to insert into the reel and turn forward to screw in

[bhale1]

Following this with interest, hasn't happened to me personally! Recently on a trip someone has try to switch a handle and couldn't. I tried too, and it wouldn't go. I just let them use one of mine😐.But now maybe I'll know what to look for.
Brett

Edit: and the best thing about this site is that there is no such thing as an  "embarrassing", or "dumb" question....people like to help!

[handi2]

Pro reel is right in telling you that there is a collar in the center. It has to be turned counterclockwise so it will go further in letting all the threads show.

[philaroman]

sorry, didn't read past your first paragraph & I'm more familiar w/ older, Japan-made Stradic/Sustain...  still:

"[you] wanted to switch the reel from right hand wind to left hand wind"

AND

"Yes, [you are] going clockwise"

...don't understand how that works
doesn't every direct-drive handle have to screw in counterclockwise on the left side of the reel, for L/H retrieve?

[Pro Reel]

Yes, it's direct drive. The handle does screw in the direction you would crank. On right side of reel that would be clockwise. On left side of reel it would be counter clockwise. However, I believe the issue here is simply that the collar came unscrewed and is keeping the threads on the shaft from being able to reach the threads in the gear. The first time that happened to me it through me for a loop. Not embarrassing at all, just another mystery to unravel. There is a collar that can come unscrewed and it needs to be up inside the handle for the handle shaft threads to reach.

[BlastingCaps]

Success!

Yes, there is a collar or sleeve fitted around the screw on the handle that is screwed into the reel.  This collar or sleeve has to screwed down to allow the handle to allow the handle screw enough threads so it mate with the threads in the and allow the handle to be screwed into the reel. The instructions,of course, don't mention this. Worse yet, the schematics included with the reel actually show a different design!

This rather baroque design seems to be intended to help ensure the reel is water-tight, just like the omission of the anti-reverse lever.  I still wish it had an anti-reserve switch.

Thank you, Reel Pro Pro!

[bhale1]

Coolio...learn something new every day! What seems simple to some, is a learning experience for those of us not quite as"reely" experienced!
Brett

[handi2]

Glad you got it..!!

[boon]

This rather baroque design seems to be intended to help ensure the reel is water-tight, just like the omission of the anti-reverse lever.  I still wish it had an anti-reserve switch.

Glad you got it sorted, I have had some highly frustrating battles with the collars on some of the other Shimano reels.

Out of interest, of what use do you find the anti-reverse switch? Do you do the whole back-reeling thing (have seen a few videos advocating it for very, very light line fishing)?

[philaroman]

Out of interest, of what use do you find the anti-reverse switch? Do you do the whole back-reeling thing (have seen a few videos advocating it for very, very light line fishing)?

if you make do w/ a spinner in situations where a center-pin would be most appropriate, back-reeling capability is highly desirable -- optimal control/precision

"for very, very light line" I prefer Japan-made Shimano models w/ rear Fightin' Drag...  1000-size is small enough for me -- those who want smaller reels, may need to back-reel

otherwise, if I can easily pull line by hand on a small spinner w/ light drag, I have no use for the A/R switch...  actually have a couple Sustain 2000FA that need A/R Cams & don't intend to pay for rare parts (even if I could find them) -- makes more sense to lock the A/R on; get rid of 5-7 superfluous parts; plug up the frame holes & shave 1/2 oz. of total reel weight.

[BlastingCaps]

I use the antireverse in a number situations.  It's nice to have for letting out line when I'm trolling or back-trolling.  It allows more adjustment than opening bail.  If I'm in a boat and get snagged and move the boat try to get the snag out, it again allows more control.  If I'm swinging spoons in a current in a stream, I can extent the swing.  The same with plugs.  On a windy day, it can make rigging up easier.  Etc.

This rather baroque design seems to be intended to help ensure the reel is water-tight, just like the omission of the anti-reverse lever.  I still wish it had an anti-reserve switch.

Glad you got it sorted, I have had some highly frustrating battles with the collars on some of the other Shimano reels.

Out of interest, of what use do you find the anti-reverse switch? Do you do the whole back-reeling thing (have seen a few videos advocating it for very, very light line fishing)?