a few people have asked about the tools i use for working on fishing reels. i shot a few photos a while back and thought i'd post them. if you like to tinker with reels, you might find something here that might help you out.
first the lubes. i use shimano drag grease on all the carbon fiber drag washers. i'm finally running out and may switch over to cal's grease. it's half the price. corrosion x is the lube i use on all the bearings, level wind assemblies and reel handles. and lastly, there's yamaha engine grease. that goes into all the screw holes and all the other non-exposed metal surfaces. it stays blue forever. i can open up a reel and know immediately if i've worked on it before or not.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1108.JPG)
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1129.JPG)
here's my tool rack. i found some hard blue styrofoam at work, don't remember where the box came from, drew a 1 inch grid and started punching holes. it forces me to be neat.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1109.JPG)
flat, phillips and allen heads.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1110.JPG)
deep standard and metric sockets, precision screw drivers.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1111.JPG)
my little handy dandy bearing puller.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1112.JPG)
6 inch calipers. i use this alot!!!!!!
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1113.JPG)
specialty shimano and penn spool wrenches.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1114.JPG)
a working inventory of all the penn ht-100 drag washers made. i order all my penn stuff from mysticparts.com. i'm their biggest non-business account!
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1115.JPG)
bearings from bocabearings.com. they like me alot as well.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1116.JPG)
boxes of screws. mostly stuff that i've accumulated over the years.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1117.JPG)
this little dremmel comes in handy! seems that i'm always grinding away at something.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1118.JPG)
more boxes of stuff.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1119.JPG)
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1120.JPG)
i'd have carpal tunnel syndrome without this little baby! it's a little electric screwdriver from milwaulke. they're about $100, i have two, finally busted one and i need to replace it.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1121.JPG)
now for the grease gun. this is another little item that i could not do with out. here's the grease.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1122.JPG)
here's the gun. home depot has these. note the position of the nozzle.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1123.JPG)
home depot has these as well. it's a blowgun kit.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1124.JPG)
take the inflator needle and cut off the tip with the cutting wheel of the dremmel, the screw it into the adaptor.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1125.JPG)
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1126.JPG)
screw in the adaptor, load up a grease cartridge and you're all set. this is another "must have" item.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1127.JPG)
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1128.JPG)
and lastly, my favorite. 7-8 years ago i found this wrench in a tackle shop for $20. i put it next to a standard penn wrench so you could see the difference. i bought two, lost one, and just had a machine shop buddy make a bunch more.
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1261.JPG)
i also have a small compressor, a bench grinder, a drill press and a half gallon ultrasonic cleaner loaded with green soap. the only thing i still need is a small bench lathe. i want to start cutting sleeves to blueprint lever drag reels. yes, it's taken over my garage....
(http://www.yourfishpictures.com/data/500/medium/100_0881.JPG)
"Edited as per Moderators to correct Scott's Bait & Tackle over to their new store name Mystic Reel Parts / www.mysticparts.com"
here's a link for the 3 ounce grease cartridge.....
http://www.usboatsupplies.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=USBS&Product_Code=ACC-GREAS-RE-FL&Category_Code=AYOM
and a link for the blow gun kit......
http://www.chpower.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/chPrd5_10051_10001_87385_-1_search
Alan, are you still looking for a bench lathe?
not really. i would like to start cutting bearing sleeves, but i just don't have the room. bryan can vouch for that! do you have access to one?
Hey Alan, this is the one I have: http://www.grizzly.com/products/10-x-22-Bench-Top-Metal-Lathe/G0602 Pretty nice compact setup. My issue is that my main fishing partner owns a machine shop right next door to my shop and then two doors down from him I have a guy that does all the cnc stuff.. So when I start to think about making something, I just end up talking to one of them. That is why I was probably going to sell mine. Or barter... :)
How much? And what do you need? I have a 60 gal. aux fuel tank with storage http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200370678_200370678 that was for my truck before it got totalled. Never used. Wanna trade?
so that is 10 inches by 22 inches at the base?
Hey Alan, the 10 refers to the swing in the bed and the 22 refers to the distance between centers.. so really, the usable machining area. I have the stand for the lathe as you can see in the pictures. You would need total of a 2'x4' space to hold the lathe, whether on the stand or on a bench... Here are the pictures:
yeah, i would have absolutely no place to put that! alan
How much? I may find a place in my garage so that I can start cutting them sleeves. Barter in mind? What are you looking for?
tom says he may have a lathe for me. but we still do not have room!!!!!! ;D
Hey Bryan, Probably gonna ask for around $750 with the stand. I don't need a tool/fuel tank for my truck.. I guess for trade it would mainly be fishing stuff..decent reels. Pretty set rod wise.. Maybe do a trade + cash or something if you are interested.. Anyway, let me know.
Hey Alan, if you want, I would be happy to cut you up some precision bearing sleeves. Just let me know what you want and the dimensions and we can work something out. If you want to do this, maybe you could buy the material from somewhere that has a local distribution to me and I can pick it up, cut the sleeves and ship them to you. Let me know.
score!!!!!!
just spoke to tom. he has a small belt driven hobby lathe with an 18" by 24" footprint. he promises that i can throw an old towel over it any my wife will never know. this will beat using my drill press!
Oooh, that's nice. I gotta sell my tank first.
Just got my grease gun and i'm running into some problems. The threads on the blowgun attachment are fine threads and the threads on the grease gun are pipe threads, and they don't make a piece that can handle that conversion. Has anyone else encountered this issue? It's not a big deal, but I would like to be able to have that small attachment to squirt grease into tight places.
got both of my guns from home depot and had no problems i got my needles from with brass adaptor from alan
Quote from: kamuwela on April 13, 2011, 11:57:23 PM
got both of my guns from home depot and had no problems i got my needles from with brass adaptor from alan
Right! Got to have the adapter. If you can't get the kit as shown from Home Depot, then pm Alan about his kit for sale.
I think my problem is the grease gun. This gun has the nozzle and the trigger on the same side, so there's a 5" pipe coming out of the nozzle. unfortunately, it has a male end, and so does my adapter. I tried 3 hardware stores and no one had a female-female piece. if the trigger was on the other side, it wouldn't be an issue, i could simple screw my adapter (male) into the nozzle (female).
I don't know what you have access to, but Ace Hardware, OSH and Home Depot all have the 1/8" pipe coupling (female-female). Another option is McMaster-Carr. They have everything hardware! http://www.mcmaster.com/#
I had to get some adaptors for my grease guns. Ace is the place. They carry stuff that most other hardware stores don't.
Finally found a hardware store that had the piece I needed. Grease gun and the attachment are working. I just emptied a 3oz generic grease tube and filled it with the blue yamaha marine grease. Now I'm just waiting on my drag washers from Mikes reel repair and then I'm all set. Thanks guys, great resource here!
Great idea!!! My benches are near chaos not that I cant find it but its like if I really put it away I cant find it. I think its part of the aging process. my project for the fall is ORGANIZING ;)
where can i pick up some more penn spool wrenches?
if you mean the wrenches for the handle nuts that i make, they are on back order.
I've a grease gun with 30mm(1 2/10") diameter and 150mm(6") length.
What's the correct cartridge size in term of grams/oz?
the cartridge that i use is 33mm in diameter and 145mm long. yours sounds smaller. the grease gun diameter itself is 37mm.
Quote from: alantani on February 20, 2012, 06:10:41 PM
the cartridge that i use is 33mm in diameter and 145mm long. yours sounds smaller. the grease gun diameter itself is 37mm.
I thought they are all "standard" size :-(
What's the volume(oz/gram) of the cartridge.
Thanks ^^
3 ounces, i think. i can check when i get home.
Hi alan,
For the grease gun you speifcally note the position of the nozzle. Can you please explain the importance of this. I'm in New Zealand, and I have found a mini grease gun locally that comes with a fine application nozzle, but it has the trigger and the nozzle on the same side.
Thanks
Mike
sounds like you should be fine. it's just a matter of getting the needle/nozzle to stick out far enough.
Mike -
That's the kind I use and it serves me well. I put a 4 inch/10cm pipe nipple on mine then attached Alan's adapter and needle to it. It works like a champ.
Oh, and welcome aboard!!
Cheers,
Rob
Thanks Alan and Rob for your replies. Just about ready to start servicing my own reels now. I'm a kayak fisherman, so they get wet a lot and need servicing often.
All the pics of Alans bench is just wrong! All I have is a small hammer, Bud Light, a screwdriver and assorted pliers.
Sure is fun and relaxing though!
Just to let you guys know there are a couple of Snap-On 11/32 wrenches for the eccentric lever screw on a penn 113H for "reel" cheap on Ebay, thought I would pass it along........Dan
Do you use the torque settings on the cordless screwdriver? All I can get around here is a Craftsman with 27 in.lbs. but no clutch.
i use the lightest setting for small screws like the ones on the left side plate of the ambassaduers. it works great!
I just stumbled across this.
Ozito Cordless Screw driver SDR-036.
6 settings on the clutch, reversable, led light to the tip.
and, at the press of a button it converts from the handle at 90 degrees to the drive head to 180 degrees.
and..... a 3 Year replacement warranty all for the grand price of, would you believe a smidgeon under $30.00 AUS
Sure beats using an 18 volt battery drill.
(http://i1262.photobucket.com/albums/ii608/saltydogreelrepair/02600700.jpg)
Found these diamond grinding bits at Harbor freight today for $7.99 and looks like a full selection for mods.
Do these grinding bits fit in a dremel?
Quote from: bluefish69 on August 21, 2012, 11:53:48 PM
Do these grinding bits fit in a dremel?
^^^ Whe bluefish said.
Yes they are for a Dremel,they work in mine.
OH Boy
New toys will coming soon
maybe you can add this one, a ball hammer. i use this hammer to reshape belleville washers. also various sizes of socket wrenches.
I went to two Home Depots, Ace Hardware, and Harborfreight, none had this gun with the nozzle, pointing out, they were all pointing up. HD sold one made by lucas oil. I went to harbor freight, and found this gun, but it is a big 14Oz. capacity gun, might be a little clumsy. Anyone no where to get a small Plews gun like below at a brick n mortar store? HD online has them, but they are not the same as Alan's.
http://www.harborfreight.com/grease-gun-with-pistol-grip-66664.html
(http://www.fullspeedfishing.com/gallery/data/500/medium/105_1123.JPG)
This is more what you want at H F ---- Pittsburgh Grease Gun / 3oz cartridge Lot #95575
Quote from: bluefish69 on January 27, 2013, 04:54:46 AM
This is more what you want at H F ---- Pittsburgh Grease Gun / 3oz cartridge Lot #95575
Does the air hose adapter fit on the end of this gun?
This is Pistol Grip. You squeeze the handle & grease comes out. Alan's adapter should screw on after you take the hose off. If you want a Pneumatic one that's a different animal.
Quote from: bluefish69 on January 27, 2013, 04:39:02 PM
This is Pistol Grip. You squeeze the handle & grease comes out. Alan's adapter should screw on after you take the hose off. If you want a Pneumatic one that's a different animal.
Just got back from HF, the grease gun is not as pictured, the nozzle is pointing up. It's funny, the instruction manual in the package has the nozzle pointing out like Alan's, but the gun itself has the nozzle up.
Oh well, found one online, I'll just order it.
Found the straight forward nozzle mini grease gun off Amazon. I just installed the air compenents from Harbor Freight, (home depot did not have the air pump parts listed in the OG post) the HF parts don't seem to screw in all the way. (HD husky is made in China too ;) ) There are two different air fitting that can work, see below. what do you guys think? I have two different parts that will fit not screw in all the way, I guess I can force them in as much as possile, since, I will never take them out, and this is a dedicated reel bearing grease gun.
Bonus question, what is Lithium multi-purpose grease good for? :P
The first one I thought was like Alans, it screws in half way, I think that will hold, but seems odd will not screw in all the way.
(http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo31/chrismfierro/misc/ggun6.jpg)
The second pic, shows another part that screws in 3/4 way, but it has a small hole on the side, that is covered by the air pump needle.
(http://i359.photobucket.com/albums/oo31/chrismfierro/misc/ggun5.jpg)
The First one is fine. Put 2 turns of Teflon Tape on screw it in & forget it. Stop being so picky. By the way I am a retired Plumber.
nice photos! send me a pm with your address and i will send you a needle kit!
Quote from: alantani on January 31, 2013, 05:05:06 AM
nice photos! send me a pm with your address and i will send you a needle kit!
Pm sent 8)
I got my grease gun at NAPA $11.99+tax (side outlet not top))and the blow gun kit at Tractor Supply $4.99+tax..........
The threads are as they are supposed to be. They are tapered, to ensure a proper seal. If they bottomed out with out any resistance you would have issues. Go grease some bearings and enjoy your new toy.
bluefish, I am not a plumber but do you really think you need tape for grease? I figured it'd be thick enough not to leak.
Ron
I have seen some strange things with threads in 44 years. If the needle tip clogs with something it could fly. Not saying tape would save it either.
OK,
I could see that. I've had that happen with air a time or two, scares the bajeses out of you, especially if it a couple hundred pounds. Kayaker, I recommend you follow Bluefish's advice, run some Teflon tape on those threads.
Ron
Alan,
I have to share this mini 3oz grease gun I have been using for some time now and love. It's much easier to use than the small lever guns since it operates by a single hand/thumb. This is important since I'm typically hold the reel part that I'm greasing. Plus it's under $10
http://www.harborfreight.com/3-oz-mini-grease-gun-93486.html
yeah, jim uses these.
G'day All,
just a quick post to tell you about a great little cordless driver I got hold of.
http://www.amazon.com/Kawasaki-840889-4-Volt-Li-Ion-Screwdriver/dp/B003G300EY (http://www.amazon.com/Kawasaki-840889-4-Volt-Li-Ion-Screwdriver/dp/B003G300EY)
It has 22 torque settings, the lowest is great for screws into graphite frames, and it will stall out at about setting 16. It also locks the spindle when not running, so you can crack a screw and remove it without having to keep changing the torque setting up and down.
I made another discovery when I started on a Shimano Tyrnos. I couldn't find a wrench to fit the floret handle nut so had a scratch through the tool chest (took a while, I suspect like most people here it is a HUGE chest with enough gear to overhaul the space shuttle ;D ) and discovered that a Metrinch open ended wrench in 18mm fits the "splines" of the nut sufficiently well to crack it and get it tight enough again.
With the 14pc set covering 10-23mm you are likely to find a spanner to fit most sizes. You are also covered for both metric and imperial.
Before the Navy I was a grease monkey at a truck yard. Our grease was at a higher pressure than yours will be but even still, I tape everything for grease. I PTFE dope a lot of air and water but grease seems to push out the dope. Nothing (I have been told many people don't understand absolutes, so let me say very few things) sucks more than getting grease sprayed all over your hand from leaky threads.
Ron
Another one of my favorite tools, the Grabit Micro screw removers. Just got this screw out of the bail arm pivot on a Stella 5000SW that another repairer had busted off and handed back. Don't ya just love getting handed a bag of parts ::)
i've got a set of those and they will work if the screw is not corroded in. :-\
You're not wrong Alan, then it's down to lots of heat, penetrating oil, time and luck!
cheers
Steve
I'm going to replace/upgrade some of the bearing on my Shimano Torium and Abu reels. Any advise on the best tool/procedure to remove the pin on the spool shaft of my Shimano's?
Quote from: stoked4fishin on November 16, 2014, 03:53:30 AM
I'm going to replace/upgrade some of the bearing on my Shimano Torium and Abu reels. Any advise on the best tool/procedure to remove the pin on the spool shaft of my Shimano's?
There are actually spool pin pliers just for that. Dawn at smoooth drag has some that will work great for your needs.
Thanks for the tip!
Bummer, Dawn at Smoothdrag is all out and does;t know hewn she will get another shipment in :(
Any other suggestions?
Thanks
Quote from: stoked4fishin on November 21, 2014, 08:56:13 PM
Bummer, Dawn at Smoothdrag is all out and does;t know hewn she will get another shipment in :(
Any other suggestions?
Thanks
http://www.bocabearings.com/productDetail.aspx?ItemID=21933
Try contacting Aaron (ReelSpeed), or make your own outta some vice grips as per Alan Tani's guidance.
i've tried several, and i am still most happy with the pin pusher made from a small pair of vise grips. it allows for precise pressure. mushrooming the head of the pin is a constant problem.
Quote from: Tightlines666 on November 22, 2014, 12:08:00 AM
Try contacting Aaron (ReelSpeed), or make your own outta some vice grips as per Alan Tani's guidance.
The man makes good products, but I think he has commitment issues. I understand this is only a hobby, but how hard is it just to respond to your potential customer. Even a simple NO will suffice.
I used a 1/8 I.P.S [Iron Pipe Size] Coupling. It will screw on the Grease Gun & Alan sends an Adapter with the kit that screws in the other end of the Coupling.
Mike
Here it is, R224 --
Third one down -- Leaders RPM --
http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B004K9FT8K/ref=dp_olp_new?ie=UTF8&condition=new
Unless you can find it somewhere locally -- this is a decent deal.
With the shipping included -- you might order a few, if you think you may need them.
I buy mine from a local boat service and repair shop -- and pay around $10.
Sometimes I go through 6 to 10 tubes a year.
Some of the other companies offer it for about $6 less -- but require you to pay $6.05 shipping for each tube.
I got my adapter fittings at Lowe's -- they came in a pack with some other things I did not need -- but were only $7.99.
Alan can help you out on these also, I believe.
Good Luck,
Fred
Quote from: Reel 224 on April 07, 2015, 09:47:49 PM
Ya know I didn't consider using a coupling that small, but yes that would work. I still need to get a handle on finding the Yamaha lube. that I.P.S needs to be NF thread for that gun.
I bought the Coupling at ACE Hardware. It doesn't matter Black Iron, Brass or Galvanized. HD or Lowes should have them. When I retired I had at least 25 pcs. in stock. Shucks
What do you guys use to apply cal's to drag washers for good coating but not being wasteful?
A flux brush works good, just trim it slightly shorter to stiffen it up. RUDY
Thanks Rudy!
Hi ous --
For me, I just use a stiff bristle flux brush like this, that I pay about 20 cents each for -- one will last me a year of steady use.
Then just work it in with your fingers so there is penetration into the surface pattern on the CFs.
Some folks use latex gloves -- I do not -- that is just a personal preference.
Cal Sheets sez to use his grease on all parts of the reel.
But I have had better results using Cal's only for the drag stack -- then Shimano Marine or Penn grease for all other internal parts.
So if I get a little too much on the drag stack -- no concerns -- what is not needed is squeezed out on a star drag -- and what gets mixed up a little with the Shimano or Penn grease is just fine.
I don't think economics enter in too much -- if you figure out what you spend for your gear, license, boat, fuel, and everything else you need for a good fishing trip -- any grease you might waste will not even show up on the expense chart.
Best,
Fred
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/713F81B7-57B7-4042-B0FF-A4258EC04F56_zpsuwqoydv7.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/713F81B7-57B7-4042-B0FF-A4258EC04F56_zpsuwqoydv7.jpg.html)
Quote from: osufanms on April 09, 2015, 09:25:44 PM
What do you guys use to apply cal's to drag washers for good coating but not being wasteful?
I just use the cheap yellow brushes that are used to put flex coat onto rods. ;D I use them with Cal's/Shimano grease to apply onto the reel internals. I use my thumb and forefinger for the washers. Just dip my forefinger into the Cal's/Shimano and put a little dab onto both sides and rub it in real good. I use the same Cal's or Shimano grease for both the internals and drag washers.
I'm not sure they sell the 3 oz tubes in the Yamaha marine anymore. I buy the 14 oz from a local Yamaha boat dealer and hand pack it into empty 3 oz tubes. A little messy but works for me. ;)
TomT
The Yamaha grease in the 3 oz. tube is not marine grease. Different stuff. Hand pack it from the 14 oz tube.It's also sold in a 10 oz. squeeze tube but is not convenient. RUDY
Tried this out the other day and loved it. Had a spray bottle of high gloss car wax by Turtle wax sitting by my work bench and decided to try it out on a reel. It works fantastic!! These car detailer spray waxes are more polymere I think and put a fantastic shine and smooth finish on the reel. I just sprayed a bit on a micro fiber rag and rubbed it on. It does not leave white on the reel like old style wax does and wipes/shines super easy. No work to it and it only takes a minute.
Dug out all the reels I had done and shone them all up. Just like brand new and no fingerprints from grease or oil :D
FYI I tried it on a composite frame and although it cleaned it up and made the matte finish look better, it does not put any shine to it.
I think this is in the context of this thread:
IMHO there is only one bearing grease packer worthy of consideration - The Boss's. I've had a pair of them for 3 years (really :o - it only seems like testerday). Old grease out and new grease in - even without removing seals - it doesn't get easier. Here is how I have set them up - No grease nipples - AT's packer screwed directly to a dedicated 3oz grease gun:
(http://i1290.photobucket.com/albums/b521/Tiddlerbasher/P1010024%20Custom_zpsoz6lreei.jpg) (http://s1290.photobucket.com/user/Tiddlerbasher/media/P1010024%20Custom_zpsoz6lreei.jpg.html)
For all other grease jobs I use a mini thumb operated grease gun with an AT adapter screwd directly to it:
(http://i1290.photobucket.com/albums/b521/Tiddlerbasher/P1010025%20Medium%20Custom_zpsaa5a1fne.jpg) (http://s1290.photobucket.com/user/Tiddlerbasher/media/P1010025%20Medium%20Custom_zpsaa5a1fne.jpg.html)
I gotta get me one of the little ones!
Ron
Since I've been servicing a lot more reels, both my own and for customers it was time to look into an electric screwdriver. Even at 26 my wrists get sore after going through reels with regular screwdrivers :P Picked up this nifty gyroscopic one for $40 on ebay. Home depot, Amazon and Dewalt stores have it for $90. It senses how fast and what direction your wrist is turning and adjusts on it's own, no switches to flip just squeeze, turn and it goes. Pretty light weight, 2 ergonomic configuration options with a handy LED. I use Dewalt tools at work and they're reliable enough...rather have Makita but that's more expensive! http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DCF680N2-Gyroscopic-Screwdriver-Battery/dp/B00DL7QDS2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1459853291&sr=8-1&keywords=dewalt+gyroscopic+screwdriver
(http://i.imgur.com/DeldPiul.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/s6zLy7Gl.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/iVlQJlbl.jpg)
It is really a joke when people try to repair or modify their reels & don't have any tools to do the job. If you are going to get into it at least get the basic hand tools to do the job. You need screwdrivers, straight, phillips, allen wrenches, files, pliers, etc. You don't have to spend a lot. You can get started with HF tools. And if you don't want to spend for a tool box to keep them in get a cardboard box. :D Look over your reels to get an idea of what you need. Not everything works with a zipper. Rudy
It does pay to invest in a good set of hollow ground screw drivers of different sizes... it's easy to bugger up a screw if you don't have the right equipment. Really easy. Sometimes it's really easy even with the right size screwdriver :)
Sid
But what about the guy that doesn't want to spend the money or is to cheap because he only has a few basic reels. Should he spend $500 or more for premium tools? It's a decision that you have to make according to how far you want to go. Maybe sometimes it's cheaper or easier to send it out & have it serviced.
Quote from: Tiddlerbasher on October 27, 2015, 12:24:02 PM
I think this is in the context of this thread:
IMHO there is only one bearing grease packer worthy of consideration - The Boss's. I've had a pair of them for 3 years (really :o - it only seems like testerday). Old grease out and new grease in - even without removing seals - it doesn't get easier. Here is how I have set them up - No grease nipples - AT's packer screwed directly to a dedicated 3oz grease gun:
(http://i1290.photobucket.com/albums/b521/Tiddlerbasher/P1010024%20Custom_zpsoz6lreei.jpg) (http://s1290.photobucket.com/user/Tiddlerbasher/media/P1010024%20Custom_zpsoz6lreei.jpg.html)
For all other grease jobs I use a mini thumb operated grease gun with an AT adapter screwd directly to it:
(http://i1290.photobucket.com/albums/b521/Tiddlerbasher/P1010025%20Medium%20Custom_zpsaa5a1fne.jpg) (http://s1290.photobucket.com/user/Tiddlerbasher/media/P1010025%20Medium%20Custom_zpsaa5a1fne.jpg.html)
What brand are those grease guns? They look nice. Mine is junk. It leaks grease all over the place.
Anyone every try and put Penn blue inside the grease guns?
Quote from: RowdyW on April 17, 2016, 12:32:40 AM
But what about the guy that doesn't want to spend the money or is to cheap because he only has a few basic reels. Should he spend $500 or more for premium tools? It's a decision that you have to make according to how far you want to go. Maybe sometimes it's cheaper or easier to send it out & have it serviced.
I dont think everybody needs something like Wiha, but there needs to be a minimum level of quality to ensure you dont spend more time and money tearing up and replacing screws than you would have on a decent set of drivers.
Id consider the better store branded ones(husky, cobalt, etc) to be a minimum quality level. Harbor freight, off brand, etc, shouldnt be really be considered.
If money is an issue, get something that takes replaceable bits. You can get a decent driver for under $10, and quality bits with a 1/4" hex drive are readily available and inexpensive. Its not as convenient as separate drivers for each size, but you can have a full set of good quality without spending a lot of money.
Sid is right...everyone needs a set of these: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/264720/wheeler-engineering-43-piece-professional-gunsmithing-screwdriver-set
If you like guns too, get the bigger set as it has special bits that you'll need. The small set in the link has every size you will ever need for reels and will keep your screws in perfect condition.
-Mike
You guys are just talking about screwdrivers. what about the rest of the tools needed? Even HF has hollow ground bits that work fine for most people. I'm not trying to plug HF but if you just do your own reels every year or two you don't need premium tools. it's different if you service reels as a livelihood or service so many reels that you don't have time to go fishing. I'm talking about the average guy not a reelhead. For instance the only file an average guy owns is his wife's or girlfriends fingernail file. I worked as a heavy equipment mechanic all my life & whether I worked in a shop or out in the field every mechanic was trying to outdo everybody else with more expensive tools that couldn't do a better job then the regular brands of tools. I have broken, worn out, & bent Snap On tools but I didn't only buy & use that brand. There are many other brands of hand tools that are lifetime garaunteed also & cost less & do the same job. For instance why buy a $30 slip joint plier when a $5 pair will hold something just as well. The only reason for the $30 plier is show & tell time.
We all know that the stamped Penn wrenches will do just fine for the nuts and bolts but when it comes to screws; it's not the place to be cheap. For instance the number one clue that a reel (or firearm) has been 'Bubba'ed' is when the screws have been boogered up by using the wrong screwdriver. This de-values a reel. Most Penns use chrome over brass screws and they are somewhat soft and easily damaged, stainless steel oval head Newell screws are harder but also harder to replace when damaged. These screws aren't cheap to replaced and there are more reasons than just protecting the screws. How about the anodizing? What could be worse than having an ill-fitting screwdriver slip and put a nasty scratch on your new Cortez Conversions sideplate?...or worse a rare Accurate Magnum sideplate! We can economize on most of our tools but quality screwdrivers are a good investment.
Just my two cents worth
-Mike
My Cortez & Accurate plates came with allen head screws. And my HF insert screwdriver bits fit my screws perfectly. And they are cheaper because of the cheap labor in China. What tools do you think are used to assemble all the Chinese products?
Fattuna the 3oz grease guns were from a car parts/ serving store. Mine leaked at every joint to start with.
I stripped 'em down and wrapped every thread with PTFE tape. Every part was screwed together reel tight :) now they don't leak ;)
Quote from: PacRat on April 17, 2016, 02:58:01 AM
Sid is right...everyone needs a set of these: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/264720/wheeler-engineering-43-piece-professional-gunsmithing-screwdriver-set
-Mike
My set is made by Winchester, for guns, but is pretty much the same as this one. I think I picked it up on Amazon for about $15-20 and now I have hollow-ground 1/4" drive screwdriver bits for all sizes, as well as Phillips, hex and star...
For the average guy the screwdriver is the best investment, and can be pretty cheap. One of these and an AT wrench and a needle-nose plier is about all you need to do this... speaking maintenance only, not hot-rodding.
Sid
Quote from: Tiddlerbasher on April 17, 2016, 10:07:03 AM
Fattuna the 3oz grease guns were from a car parts/ serving store. Mine leaked at every joint to start with.
I stripped 'em down and wrapped every thread with PTFE tape. Every part was screwed together reel tight :) now they don't leak ;)
I'll have to try that trick. The leaking grease was driving me nuts. I put it in a bucket and it's been sitting ever since.
I hope Sal isn't watching, because he does not like to use electric drivers. I have a nice skil, but a little too powerful.
I think this little black and decker lithium driver from wal mart is the ticket.
It has a clutch and works great, From Everol's to the Biggest Penn's, One of my favorite tools.
The clutch is the key for setting the torque.
When you are dealing with this many long screws. you need a little help. ;)
(http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag93/darondyer/IMG_3039_zps44pn1eux.jpg)
Quote from: Shark Hunter on April 19, 2016, 06:11:49 AM
I hope Sal isn't watching, because he does not like to use electric drivers.
Especially on a $2000 reel ;) ...labor of love my friend :).
For me on screwdrivers -- it is a matter of what I am comfortable using, scratch and screw slot booger safe, plus experience and finesse.
As a rule, even an old LB 60 only gets touched initially with a manual screwdriver. I can feel the threads if they are going to be an issue if salt fused, or encrusted. Sometimes, after an initial inspection of the reel -- even with salt or crusted screws -- the cordless will save more time -- but more importantly -- will be safer and less chance of slipping if the proper amount of downward pressure is applied.
If OK and good loose threads -- the power screwdriver is used -- if not, generally a combination is used as appropriate.
The right type of cordless screwdriver is important -- should have strong torque starting from "0". With a variable speed that is fully manageable. Must have a clutch ring that can be dialed back for the proper torque without damging parts.
Good tips of the proper size are important.
Plus, I generally have two cordless ready to go -- so tips do not have to be changed as much.
On a typical 45 minute to 1 hour breakdown, cleaning, upgrade, and completion of a reel -- a cordless will save me 15 minutes -- and my hands will not be worn out -- and will be ready for the next reel. Figure that might help to get a couple of extra reels done in a day -- and easier and more efficiently.
At the end of the day -- judgement is always first in line. Some reels only get a manual screwdriver -- and some get a combination of both.
And then there is the finesse of using a cordless driver as a manual driver without power just for speed and efficiency. And the proper power and torque with the proper amount of carefully placed downward positive force.
Everyone has their own comfort level -- and that is why it is good to not paint with too broad of a brush.
Everyone is different.
Best,
Fred
Everyone should use whatever they're comfortable using. I need to feel the screw by hand and not depend on a tool, but that's just me. I've seen a bunch of aluminum plates with damaged caused by a power drive, those will slip very easily on slatted screws.
I realized I'm not going to get rich servicing reels, so doing it by hand works for me.
sal
Well, if you get the old man shakes I don't think it matters, you are going to slip. ;D
Quote from: Shark Hunter on April 19, 2016, 06:11:49 AM
I hope Sal isn't watching, because he does not like to use electric drivers. I have a nice skil, but a little too powerful.
I think this little black and decker lithium driver from wal mart is the ticket.
It has a clutch and works great, From Everol's to the Biggest Penn's, One of my favorite tools.
The clutch is the key for setting the torque.
When you are dealing with this many long screws. you need a little help. ;)
(http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag93/darondyer/IMG_3039_zps44pn1eux.jpg)
Man! That thing looks like it just gave birth to a monofil :o
Marc..
Quote from: Rancanfish on April 20, 2016, 01:51:38 AM
Well, if you get the old man shakes I don't think it matters, you are going to slip. ;D
Yup!
I rest my screwdriver next to my thumb as I cradle the reel as a baby :).
Finally got me a smaller bearing packer and bearing blaster all in one for less then 15 bucks.
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h267/Mang_Vue/IMAG4709_zps3zz8etlr.jpg)
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h267/Mang_Vue/IMAG4707_zpsboymryen.jpg)
Mang,
Where did you get that bearing packer?
I think this is the same one... it's $44 on amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/Bearing-refresh-69070-ABC-HOBBY/dp/B00OC0Y8KM?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00
I'd buy one for $15.
I see them as cheap as $21.57 on Amazon.
I'd like to see how one works first though.
Quote from: SoCalAngler on May 10, 2016, 12:23:13 AM
I see them as cheap as $21.57 on Amazon.
I'd like to see how one works first though.
right now it's $44+
looks efficient..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPmkx2AyklY
Ebay. Search abc hobby bearing fresher
Took me months just for the guy to put on eBay. I ordered 2 from Japan and the other from rcmart eBay guys. Both at 15 bucks ;)
Best packer iv found so far. Compared to the greaser
I don't buy anything that ships from overseas on EBay. Just a rule I stick to.
And definitely not worth $44.00. $21.00 on Amazon I might add it.
The Boss's bearing packer is still working great for me - can't see the need for another one :)
No way for me. I can do it faster by hand and no cleanup.
Quote from: PacRat on April 17, 2016, 02:58:01 AM
Sid is right...everyone needs a set of these: http://www.midwayusa.com/product/264720/wheeler-engineering-43-piece-professional-gunsmithing-screwdriver-set
If you like guns too, get the bigger set as it has special bits that you'll need. The small set in the link has every size you will ever need for reels and will keep your screws in perfect condition.
-Mike
I have the same screwdriver set from Wheeler. It's a great set for the money and I haven't broken any bits.
For brushes I use natural hair paint brushes. They don't wear out or loses any bristles. Regular artist brushes. I can get flux brushes free but just don't like it when the bristles come out.
Hi Alan my name is Sam; I'm new here. I have an old Penn no 155 that was my grandfathers. I cleaned most of it and oiled what I could. What type of wrench do I need to take the handle off to get into the gear box to see what's going on there. The clicker sounds great but I think there is some slippage in the gears. Thanks. And great forum. Just getting into the hobby with my grandfathers old stuff
Quote from: JohnDeereMoxie on August 24, 2016, 01:00:05 PM
Hi Alan my name is Sam; I'm new here. I have an old Penn no 155 that was my grandfathers. I cleaned most of it and oiled what I could. What type of wrench do I need to take the handle off to get into the gear box to see what's going on there. The clicker sounds great but I think there is some slippage in the gears. Thanks. And great forum. Just getting into the hobby with my grandfathers old stuff
Welcome, Sam. There is a special wrench first made by Penn, now available several places that you need for those scalloped nuts. They come free with each reel. I have an extra. PM me your address and I'd be happy to send it to you NC as an initiation present :)
Sid
Welcome Sam :)
Quote from: Reel 224 on August 25, 2016, 01:37:56 PM
Welcome Sam. That's a nice present Sid, but I didn't get one from you when I was new here. :D ;D
Joe
Joe, aside from you being here longer than I, you didn't ask me for one :)
Sid
Gee, that's strange Sam asked me for a wrench too & I sent it off to him this morning. Rudy
Quote from: RowdyW on August 25, 2016, 06:06:11 PM
Gee, that's strange Sam asked me for a wrench too & I sent it off to him this morning. Rudy
Maybe that's why I didn't get a PM?
All set all. Rudy got me covered. I ran a post in this thread too, seemed more appropriate. I really appreciate the advice and generosity while being new to the hobby. Thank you so much for the warm welcome. Been busy the past few days so I have been slacking on checking my posts. Have a great day all! :)
kitchen scale for weighing lures after modification.
(http://i667.photobucket.com/albums/vv31/flipmlb/ATcom/9fc49e40-cb57-4946-9e74-347b9440b05f_zpsplrdt8qy.jpg) (http://s667.photobucket.com/user/flipmlb/media/ATcom/9fc49e40-cb57-4946-9e74-347b9440b05f_zpsplrdt8qy.jpg.html)
fishing tackle has been banned from my kitchen...... :-\
I guess that puts the dishwasher out of bounds. ::) :-\ :'(
This is why you should not turn your dining room into a workshop...
Getting all new flooring throughout the unit in the next couple weeks
Quote from: alantani on October 31, 2016, 03:48:25 PM
fishing tackle has been banned from my kitchen...... :-\
taking advantage for now while still single. again... :D
First off, I totally agree with Sal, a power screwdriver will never touch any reel I'm working on. I've used drill-drivers since they first came out with variable speed drills over 50 years ago so I know their uses and limitations and I need to have hands on to feel the torque needed.
Now, after spending most of my life and manual labor working career as a carpenter, framing, then finish, and later home builder, and owning and using only top quality hand and power tools I have to confess that just the thought of going to HF makes me nauseous. Once I finally got it through my head that you get what you pay for and most of their stuff are throw away tools anyway, I always keep that at the forefront of my mind when I need some little specialty item that only gets used now and then and it will most likely never wear out, at least in the years I have left. I've gotten a couple of cheap and handy little items from them like gasket, and also washer, punch sets that work good to make nylon, teflon, mylar and thin brass & bronze shims and washers every once in awhile. For only $14 after their normal 20% discount, here's one of the handiest tools in my arsenal and it works especially good on spinning reels. I don't know how many wire brushes I went through before I ran across these one day when I was at HF. I used to roll up a small piece of emery cloth around a tiny screwdriver shaft to polish the inside of worm gear/pinions and pinion and handle bushings. I use them now to brush just about every internal reel part after soaking, not just on the tube/hole applications. They're exceptionally nice for cleaning between gear teeth and I seldom use a mini wire brush nowadays.
A set of valve brushes, stainless, brass & nylon. I love these things!
(https://alantani.com/gallery/34/17004_03_02_21_5_05_30_343221522.jpeg)
Thanks for the tip Tommy, I usually prefer nylon, unless I happen to find a soft stainless steel or brass brushes.
Those that you're showing would come handy.
Sal
Great tip, Tommy --
Thanks!
Best,
Fred
Ah yes! Found my way into this section now.
A very interesting and very informative section it is too.
Just too much good stuff in this forum.
I see now the blossoming of a new pastime. And it goes nicely with my favorite pastime ---> FISHING!
Now if my eyes hold up...........onward.
Thanks! :)
We all use the same basic tools, so what I would like to know is what "special tools" everyone uses.
Chop Sticks - I get 'em whenever we go out for Chinese. Get the real Bamboo though. The imitation ivory is ok, but just for making handy-dandy rod wrapping burnishing tools. The ends can be shaped by sanding, and I use them for detailing, grease diggers, burnishing, scraping etc. The bamboo doesnt splinter and is fairly tough but soft enough not to mar paint or aluminum parts. Better than fingernails for sure!
Women's Makeup Brushes - These are great for cleaning around all the little parts and crevices' you just can't get to with a rag or fingers. Get the Sable ones though. I get them from my wife and her friends. I even use them for applying varnish sometimes.
Sheep's Skin Wool - These are a genuine wonder when it comes time to dust off a reel fast or polish one up after repairs. They don't leave dust and strings and they last forever. I get my wife's leftovers from her leather work, but you can get bags of scraps from any leather supply house.
Cafeteria Trays - The best thing I have ever found to keep all the parts together when tearing down, cleaning and reassembling reels. Easy clean up too. I tried the metal trays but the plastic ones don't scratch paint and they don't look so beat up after a while.
Long Strips of Rough Leather - These are great for the metal foot reels like the old Zebco's when I want to de-oxidize them and shine them up a bit. But also works for a variety of other small parts like Bails and handles. I clamp my part in the vice between some smaller strips of leather and then take the long strip (about 8-10 inches) and soak one side with whatever metal polish or compound I think I need. Then, I polish using a kind of "shoe shine" motion. Flip to the other side with no polish or compound to get the shine.
For grease and oil when doing final assembly I use Penn Grease and Turbine Oil. The turbine oil can be purchased in what they call the Zoom Spout Bottle which makes precise placement a breeze and it doesn't degrade over time. It is paraffin based and will last a very long time.
(https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipMCjDz91HjxrHA5ZA8BGgAg_rTuISDaDAMaJgdv)
I work on laptops, phones and other electronic items. The following two items I find useful when working on reels. I noticed they have not been mentioned.
A black stick spudger tool designed for working on phones. I use the flat end to help scrape away old grease and the pointed end to clean area old grease in hard to reach areas. I realize you can other tools but the plastic tools don't scratch the metal. Here's a link to the item:
Universal Black Stick Spudger Opening Pry Tool (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XJ1KLHC/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?pd_rd_i=B01GNYK0K6&pd_rd_w=asng0&content-id=amzn1.sym.dd2c6db7-6626-466d-bf04-9570e69a7df0&pf_rd_p=dd2c6db7-6626-466d-bf04-9570e69a7df0&pf_rd_r=67MH2S2025FPP14YW280&pd_rd_wg=EnOe7&pd_rd_r=a9d932c4-e97e-4a31-8894-cd40da38e880&s=office-products&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9kZXRhaWxfdGhlbWF0aWM&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyQTJTWk42RjlCSDdNJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTY1MTA5MVpLNVYxUTZHOEJZUiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTU4ODQ1MkdCTkRZNUdIUENSTiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2RldGFpbF90aGVtYXRpYyZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU&th=1)
A bench top mat for easy cleanup with the added benefit of having bins for storing small parts, screws, springs that can easily find their way to the floor. I also find the bins very useful for separating and organizing parts during disassembly. It makes it easier to remember what parts go where during reassembly. There several options, sizes and styles so have a look and select one to match you needs, if you think it may be useful. The following link shows one exanple:
Soldering Mat Silicone Insulation Work Mat (https://www.amazon.com/Soldering-Silicone-Resistant-Electronics-Workbench/dp/B0727RK3QF/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=Laptop%2Band%2Bphone%2Brepair%2Bwork%2Bmats&qid=1674968213&sr=8-13&th=1)
I forgot to add one more item I find useful. I service reels at my soldering bench, which also has a 10x magnifying lamp that I find useful with my aging eyes. ;)
I use the Milwaukee power M4 power screwdriver that has a great clutch. The clutch is so light I have to tighten the screws with a screwdriver after. Or I use the M4 to tighten on larger reels.
Keith
Quote from: jtwill98 on January 29, 2023, 05:31:34 AMI find useful with my aging eyes
That's a frustrating problem. I got these from a long-retired machinist. A bit comical, but they work. Jewelers glasses with multiple lenses would be another option.
My reel work area is in our living room so I can't get too "industrial" in there and the garage is a sawdust factory.
Quote from: Shellbelly on January 29, 2023, 02:52:55 PMQuote from: jtwill98 on January 29, 2023, 05:31:34 AMI find useful with my aging eyes
That's a frustrating problem. I got these from a long-retired machinist. A bit comical, but they work. Jewelers glasses with multiple lenses would be another option.
My reel work area is in our living room so I can't get too "industrial" in there and the garage is a sawdust factory.
I've seen those used in movies
They are cool 😎
Quote from: Shellbelly on January 29, 2023, 02:52:55 PMQuote from: jtwill98 on January 29, 2023, 05:31:34 AMI find useful with my aging eyes
That's a frustrating problem. I got these from a long-retired machinist. A bit comical, but they work. Jewelers glasses with multiple lenses would be another option.
My reel work area is in our living room so I can't get too "industrial" in there and the garage is a sawdust factory.
Anybody know the proper name for those glasses , They are kinder cool to have around . I know there are a lots of head band types and some clip on eye loops .
When I fly under the radar in the living room "reel shop"
And when my glasses need glasses , I use a hanging magnifier or a hand held .
The garage has the swing arm with light magnifier .
My dentist uses something similar. It has a small light in the middle and it fits over his glasses. An advertisement for a similar device recently popped up on my computer but I scrolled past it when I saw the price. I believe it was a bit north of $500.
There is a dual lighted Electrix magnifier permanently mounted to the main bench. Just moves out of the way when not needed.
Also use a color 20X Merlin when needed for very close inspection.
When Micro-Tuning a reel for best & smoothest function —- it is amazing the tiny flaws or burrs that can be detected on parts with these —- but invisible to the naked eye even with glasses.
Makes all the difference —- and makes everything quicker and more effective operating.
Best, Fred
I recently purchasd a smooth drag 8 in 1 spanner from blakdog tackle here in the UK.
What i would like to get hold of is a better wench for the handle nuts fitted to mitchell 600 series multipliers.
The OEM supplied took is OK but its a little on the short side.