Fathom II 8xn question

[Jenx]

I have been tempted a couple of times to buy a Fathom 8xn, but the lack of any casting breaks has been what has held me back from buying it. I get that the reel is meant for vertical fishing, but I prefer my reels to be more versatile.

My question is:

I believe the 8 is the same diameter as the 12 and 15, just narrower. Would I be able to swap out a 12 or 15 side plate, which have magnetic brakes, with an 8's side plate, thus giving me magnetic brakes? Or would that still not be compatible? Mystic parts doesn't appear to have a schematic available for the 8xn.

Thanks.

[MarkT]

Yeah, the 8 should just be a narrow 12 or 15.  All 3 have the same retrieval speed and drag per the specs.  I'd think swapping the sideplate would work.  Do you know someone with both an 8 and a 12/15 who could give it a try?

[Jenx]

I do not. I was kind of hoping someone on here owned both an 8 and a 12/15, and could let me know if they cleanly swapped out. 

Looking at Mystic Parts I can probably buy all the parts for a 12 or 15 side plate for less than $40, which is what I would likely do if the breaks are indeed compatible.

I'm really liking these Fathom reels.

[Jenx]

In case anyone was interested, the 12 and 15 side plates are not compatible with the 8xn. The spool appears to be the culprit.

[Rancanfish]

Thanks for posting a definitive answer!