Penn 716z bail not staying tight

[Nstd]

I have a pen 716z where the bail arm is wont staying tight. I can't overly tightening or it won't trip, but over time the bail arm becomes really loose. Should I use loctite?

[jtwill98]

I would not use loctite.

I would examine the bail wire and bend it to make sure the ends were parallel to the rotor or perpendicular to the tightening screws.  I suspect the ends are misaligned and are rubbing or too much tension is being applied against the screws.

The bail may need to be bent toward or away from the bail spring connection. Pay close attention to how much tension there is on that screw and the screw on the other side to remove bail tension pushing outward the screws and the check again for misalignment.

It's a common issue most that occurs from a fall or just throwing them into the boat or vehicle. 

[foakes]

What John said is exactly right.

The bailwire & assembly must be free to move with no friction on either side of the rotor.

A little finessing by slightly bending the bail wire back to "squared up" on both sides will probably do the trick.

This is common on spinning reels.

To quickly prove if this is the culprit —- just remove the bail wire from both sides —- leaving the angle lever and bail spring in place. If the angle lever trips properly —- you have quickly ID'd the issue —- the bail wire.

Sometimes, all that is needed is a slight bending of the angle lever mount while the bail wire is in place.  This is accomplished best with a "SMOOTH-JAWED" pair of small pliers, a crescent wrench, or pliers with vinyl covered jaws.

You shouldn't need another bail —- but if you do, I have that.

Or, myself or others on here could fix it for you.

Best, Fred

[Midway Tommy]

You have gotten very good advice from both JT & Fred. One thing that was alluded to but went unmentioned is that the bail screws on both sides should be able to be completely tightened with no tension or restraint against the arms/plates. If there is any rubbing at all then the bail wire needs to be adjusted (bent) so the arms/plates align perfectly and move freely.