better/stronger/more-reliable? 506 or 501 w/5:1 gears ???

[Joel.B]

SO the 506 has fragile pinion - also has longer shaft on spool, has bearings, and has outer ring on left plate (does ring ad strength?)

So is it certain that a 501 with Newell 5:1 gears would be a more reliable/durable reel than a 506?

[BMITCH]

I think once alan(BP) has his gears up and running....then the 501 would be better/stronger.
Bob

[Ron Jones]

Bushings are always more reliable than bearings. I think a 5:1 501 would be the more durable reel. But a stainless geared 5:1 506, assuming everything else is equal, will more than likely be the better performer.

Ron

[BMITCH]

I agree with Ron. The bushings are better maintenance wise. And the bearings performance wise. Either way they are both pretty tough reels.
Bob