Tef-Gel on drag disc

[Hytekrednek]

I was curious, so I took one of my new 2024 Metanium DC reels and cleaned off the drag disc and lubed them with Tef-Gel instead. It feels good just in my hand at home so far. I will test it out this weekend most likely.

I am curious though. Shimano advertises cross carbon drag on these reel, but only the top disc is cross carbon fiber, the bottom one seems to be something similar to dartanium.  Why would they use 2 types of disc and not 2 carbon fiber disc?

[nelz]

... only the top disc is cross carbon fiber, the bottom one seems to be something similar to dartanium.  Why would they use 2 types of disc and not 2 carbon fiber disc?

Perhaps the bottom one is delrin?

[Hytekrednek]

it seems to be some sort of compressed fiber type material as I can see a few loose fibers on the edge. The faces of the disc are smooth and slick with a similar color to dartaunium. I dont think it is delrin. Its no big deal, I just would like to know what it is made of, and why not 2 carbon fiber disc.

[jurelometer]

If the bottom one is between the main gear and the anti-reverse ratchet, its primary pupose is to function as a thrust bearing/washer, as the main gear needs to stay aligned with the shaft and turn smoothly.  It can  also provide some friction for drag, but that is secondary.

Some sort of phenolic, or something that looks like phenolic is often used because it is hard and flat. While many folk here like to replace these with carbon fiber drag washers, there is some risk, as the CF can potentially compress unevenly and is more likely to shred at the edges if it comes in contact with the dog.

-J

[boon]

That is expected, those reels only have one actual drag washer, the under-gear washer is a different material.

[Hytekrednek]

Interesting. Thanks guys