Penn International 30 Drag Upgrade

gs09 · July 30, 2026, 08:18:36 PM

I've recently inherited 4 Penn International reels from the mid 1980s (2 30s, and 2 30TWs). I'm curious if anyone has done drag upgrades on these particular reels. I believe these models have the old asbestos drag washers. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Keta · July 30, 2026, 08:27:14 PM

My 50SW (now a 50S) had CF drags but they could have been changed out when Cal's had it.

alantani · July 30, 2026, 09:02:02 PM

you can get replacement drag plates at mysticparts.com

gs09 · July 31, 2026, 03:28:50 PM

If I'm upgrading to the HT-100 material, do I also need to put in the new metal plate?

Also, I've heard of people cutting their own drag washer from the a carbontex sheet. Do you think that material would improve drag output compared to the HT-100?

Keta · July 31, 2026, 03:51:41 PM

Carbontex and Penn Dura Drag/ HT-100 are similar material, all woven carbon fiber.

This is what you need for both the 30S and 30TW reels.

https://www.mysticparts.com/PennParts/Parts/117DN-70VS.aspx

gs09 · July 31, 2026, 06:58:38 PM

Awesome, thank you. Is it as simple as changing out the old plate with that one? I've seen people say they need to change out the pinion gear too.

Keta · July 31, 2026, 09:49:12 PM

I do not see why

alantani · July 31, 2026, 11:58:44 PM

Quote from: gs09 on July 31, 2026, 06:58:38 PMAwesome, thank you. Is it as simple as changing out the old plate with that one? I've seen people say they need to change out the pinion gear too.

i recall that being an issue on some reels. the older shimano's come to mind. i took a look at the parts lists and schematics and did not see that as an issue. you should be fine with just the drag plate.