Older 12/0 Questions?

[MACflyer]

Senator 12/0 for sale locally caught my eye, especially the art on the left side plate. Think it's pre 1954 from looking at the pics: bushings, a counter balanced handle, and handle is at 7 o'clock position on side plate. It's loaded with green spot Dacron. I plan to fish it, probably sharks. Here are the questions.

1. If the 3 piece spool is stretching out, can I tell without removing line?
2. Are parts like bushings, side plates, spools, etc available, or would a later model, post 1954, be a better choice?
3. Any other issues I should be aware of with the pre 1954 models?

Thanks in advance. Rick

[MACflyer]

Disregard. I just found all my answers on a 12 year old post under "General Maintenance Tips". Should have used a broader search.

[Benni3]

If you don't want to go down the rabbit hole,,, penn fishing has the 115 black side plates $229 new and if you want to cast 4/0 us senator is probably all you need,,,,

[Shark Hunter]

I wouldn't use a three piece spool for sharks Rick.
I've seen a 12 foot Great Hammer on a 12/0 with a one piece spool caught from the beach.
Its the perfect Shark Reel.
I have so many of them, I lost count.

[MACflyer]

Thanks Benni and Daron. I'll keep looking.