Older senators add on mod

[Shark Hunter]

Why do they attach these to older reels? Is it something to keep the spray off of you or what? Maybe for easier drag pressure applied to the spool? I am Curious.
This reel should arrive today, I will post better pictures then. By the way, I got this 10/0 for 80 Bucks!

[Alto Mare]

Thumb break, so you don't loose your skin on your thumb.

[DaBigOno]

Growing up in Hawaii, I saw my grandpa do that mod on many of his reels.  This was a time before Hex gears and 9+1 CF drag systems and braided lines.

This is the Thumb-brakes I was referring to in that other thread "How to get more drag from my 14/0".

Back then, when we would get hooked up with a big Ahi or a big marlin, and the line was just going, that's what the old guy would use to get more drag.

I believe that flap of leather needs to be flipped over.  As you can see, it will meet the couture of the spool.  You can also note that the leather started to fray in the direction the line would peel off from the spool.

Thanks for bringing back the memories Shark Hunter, I haven't seen it in a long time.

BTW, 80 bucks is a steal!

[Shark Hunter]

You are Welcome Ono. Thanks Guys.

[sundaytrucka]

I was wondering if people have added on some sort of external braking system to reels. Thanks for posting this.

Do you guys know if there are or have been any reels that employ an external, mechanical braking system as an original option?

I am interested in the idea of a braking system that works as a thumb "rest" and interacts in contact with the spool itself when depressed.

[Ron Jones]

I always used those things to keep from losing skin on your thumb when casting heavy weight.

Ron

[Dominick]

I am considering putting one on (gasp) the Tank.  I burned my thumb pretty bad once live lining for Tuna.  A fish hit and instinctively I pressed my thumb down on the spool.  I had the biggest blister ever.  Karl looks like he works well with leather.  Hey Karl how about making some thumb brakes for us AT members?  BTW we haven't heard from Karl for a while.  Dominick

[Shark Hunter]

Maybe you need some gloves Dominick. The mechanics gloves are pretty spiffy. I don't know if you can find them Hawaii style though.
The reel came today and it is a piece of Penn Nostalgia. Feels well used, but well taken care of. There is lots of slop in the handle, not so much lateral movement, but the dog feels like its worn out. I wish it could talk. I'm sure it would have some stories to tell.
Ono, if you want the thumb brake, I will send it to you buddy. Free of charge!

[DaBigOno]

Thanks Daron, I'll take you up on that offer.  I'll PM my address.

It looks like that reel has many stories to tell about the great fishes it has submitted, and the ones that got away.

Keep us posted with the rebuild, I'm sure it's gonna get the treatment.

Nice Ruger.

[Bryan Young]

I guess that particular reel comes with a body guard. 

[Shark Hunter]

I guess that particular reel comes with a body guard. 

You never know brother!

[Bunnlevel Sharker]

Daron I will give you 80 bucks and a half smoked pack of cigs and a pack of Oreos for everything in the picture!

[Shark Hunter]

Uh, No.

[Bunnlevel Sharker]

Ill throw in a 4/0 to, keep the wife from getting to mad about 2 of your hobbies.

[Shark Hunter]

Negative. My wife is Ok with my Hobbies.