Reel Repair by Alan Tani

i've had so many guys ask, that i finally had my friend make up a bunch of adaptors for those small grease guns.   

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_19_5.jpeg)

i also ordered a whole bunch of inflator needles and cut the tips off with my dremmel. 

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_14_0.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_16_2.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_16_1.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_13_2.jpeg)

an adaptor and 4-5 inflator needles will sell for $5 plus $3 for shipping included.  these needles make quick work of greasing screw holes.

i've also come to realize how vulnerable bearings are.  a bearing with a seal or a shield held in by a retaining ring can be opened up, hand packed with grease and then re-sealed or re-shielded.  if your bearing has a pressed-in metal shield. the only way to pack it with grease used to require that you remove one of the shields and press the grease in with your thumb.  when you're trying to service a half dozen lever drag reels in one afternoon, packing bearings with your thumbs gets really old.  that's where a bearing packer comes in handy.  i had tom make these as well.  he wanted to make them out of less expensive aluminum, but i said brass.  i just like the look! 

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_20_6.jpeg)

i've been using these for the last month and have been actually quite pleased with myself!  the bearing packer on the left is stepped ever sixteenth of an inch and will accomodate a 1/16ths inch ID to a 1-1/8ths inch OD.  the bearing packer on the right is stepped every millimeter from a 2mm ID to a 26mm OD.  these are designed to accomodate all of the bearings sizes commonly encountered in fishing reels.

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_21_7.jpeg)

the standard bearing packer has a ring and the metric bearing packer is plain.  both are tapped on top to 1/8th inch pipe thread and have a zerx fitting (which i do not particularly like).

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_21_8.jpeg)

the bearings really fit nicely!  i think this is much better than the flat cone that is more commonly seen.

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_22_9.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_12_0.jpeg)

the 1/8th inch pipe fitting is common for small grease guns available in the united states.  i prefer to bypass the zerx fitting all together and just bolt the bearing packer directly to the grease gun.  these bearing packers allow you to force grease into a bearing without removing the shield.  it is MUCH quicker.  i'm going to sell the bearing packers for $25 each.  so basically, i am selling a metric bearing packer, a standard inch bearing packer, a nozzle adaptor, and needles for $60 with US shipping.  that's the cost of 5 average shimano bearings!

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_13_1.jpeg)

now for the mea culpa.  i've been using this yamaha grease for a long time now and i purchase it from the local grady dealership.  they had the big cartridges, the small cartridges and the 1 pound cans at the beginning.  for the last few years, they've only had the large cartridges.  so i finally asked the guy, "so what's up?  why don't you carry the small 3 ounce cartridges or the 1 pound cans anymore?"  the answer surprised the hell out of me.  apparently the marine grease is only packed in 14 ounce cartridges.  the others are not marine grade.  they're still blue, but they're intended for motorcycles and snow mobiles!!!!!! 

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_14_3.jpeg)

the greases are both the same, except that the marine grease has an additive that makes it salt water resistant. 

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_15_4.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_16_5.jpeg)

if you want a 3 ounce cartridge of yamaha marine, you have to take an old paper cartridge of any old grease, clean it out really well and then hand pack it with the grease from the 14 ounce cartridge.  trust me, it's a real mess.  your other option is this stuff.  this is evinrude-johnson's marine grease.  it's a little thicker and alot more tackier than the yamaha product, but you have none of the mess. 

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_16_6.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_18_8.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_19_9.jpeg)

here's what they look like side by side.  either way, they will both work fine.  alan

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_45_0.jpeg)

Alan,

Thank you for the bearing packers... I can't believe how quickly I can get great stuff from California to Australia.

The machining is a sight to behold... what a nifty idea and great result :D

I love the internet, PayPal and alantani.com ;D


Thanks, BigT

you're welcomed!  luckily your envelope did not tear.  poor peter in london got nothing but an empty envelope.  i put them in boxes from now on.  alan

Is this the new packaging? Thanks

     Alan,

I got to try the bearing packers today, I grabbed a Penn GLS out of my reel stash and ripped into it armed with marine grade grease, Shimano drag grease, and Xtreme Reel + bearing oil. That reel is working as well or better than any of my newer favorites. I had a peanut gallery in my garage watching me with doubt as I set up the bearing packer. I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. I let a friend check a gear bearing before and after and everyone was impressed.
Thank You, Brendan.

brendan, you're welcomed.  that bearing packer should pay for itself with the first two reels. 

aaron, yes, that is the new tube design.  i have two in the garage that i need to find.  bryan, help!!!!!

Thanks Alan for the bearing packer and the grease!!!!  Now when you are ready to purchase a phenix rod just let me know I am heading to the rod building expo and will be placing and order.  And YES there will be a discount for all forum users, just have to figure what combination I am going to use.  Thanks, Andrew

i am headed down to the fred hall show and will play with the rods then.  i figure i need six.  can you post pictures and specs in the for sale section and or the rod section?  thanks!  alan

Just wanted to let you know that one of my customers bought 1 of the A&N KITs and sent it to me..

WOW how awesome is that !!! Thanks "O" of Mobil Medics!!!!!

This Kit is super neat, cant wait to try it out....    ;D

No more Finger Jive, ~ Wham Bam thank you ...   LOL

Alan, I received the bearing packers and the check has been sent. Awesome pieces and at a good price, the craftsmanship is exquisite, can't wait to try them. Knowing that your machinist can come up with such a piece, there's no limitation on anything else. You should design your own reel "the AT reel", I'm sure he would be able to fallow your specs. Just in case that does happen, count me in for one, but try not to make it too costly ;D
Thank you for a great item and excellent service!
Sal

Alan, I just got done using the bearing packer. I wanted to see if it would pack the bearings with the pressed in shields, when I was done, I removed the shield and the bearing was packed nicely with new grease. Very nice Alan, this is going to be sweet to use. Thanks again, Sal

Alan, I have a gun similar to the one you're showing with the yamalube sticker, I would like to keep that one for the bearing packer. It would be nice to have another gun like the one you're showing below, with the trigger in front for everything else. I can't seem to find it around here, could you let me know where you got yours from? Thanks, Sal

sal, check out mcmastercarr.com they should have all this stuff.

Sal,

       Got mine from amazon for $13
Dom

Quote from: ReelSpeed on June 09, 2011, 12:54:46 PM
sal, check out mcmastercarr.com they should have all this stuff.

Thanks for the info Aaron, I thought you were going to make a few custom guns for us ;D ;D

Quote from: broadway on June 09, 2011, 04:51:23 PM
Sal,

       Got mine from amazon for $13
Dom

Thanks Dom, looks like you always know were to get a good deal. ;)

Alan, I just finished servicing a Penn 9500SS and was laughing to my self. I was amazed that the packer actually worked on the line roller bearing. I'm impressed! That bearing can't be more that a 1/4 of an inch in size.

I'm online all the time... anything I can help ya with  let me know.
Dom

Hello from El Paso, Texas.  This is my first post and I must say that since discovering this forum I have spent many late late nights reading and learning from all of the members, and of course, Alan.  I have learned that I can breathe new life into my tired old shimano, penn, and ambassadeur reels, and in some cases make them even better than new.  That, to me, is Awsome!  And now, my question(s).  I know Alan's mantra about opening up the bearings because of the air pockets and the poor greasing they get from the factory, and letting the water out.  Then I read about how good this bearing packer works with the shields on, and how it eliminates those air pockets.  I'm not talking about the spool bearings.  Does this change the game for the non spool bearings?  If you had guaranteed fully packed non spool bearings with the shields on, would that be preferable to fully packed non shielded bearings?  Would you lose reel performance with non spool bearings left shielded?  Could salt water still intrude into the fully packed shielded bearing?  Would it be ok with trolling reels, but not high performance casting reels? 
Tight Lines,
David

First off, welcome to the forum, David.
It sounds like you've done A LOT of reading here. Let me summarize what I think are your questions.
Spool bearings - If the reels isn't used for trolling, remove the shields, lightly oil with tsi301, 321, ReelX, CorrosionX, or something similar. Leave the shields off. If used for trolling, pack 100% with grease and leave the shields on.
All other bearings - Pack 100% percent with grease and keep the shields on, if possible. Yamha Marine grease, Cal's, Penn XR-1 are most often used for this.
If you leave the shields off of greased bearings, they may fling grease out allowing pockets to occur that could trap water.
Hope this helps.
Rob

Unfortunately, with some Shimano reels, there are now shieldless, and you will just have to deal with it with grease and unshielded bearings.  Just continue to pack them as you would and when they need replacing (if they need replaceing), buy shielded bearings and pack them with grease.

Thanks for the responses.  I am looking forward to trying out those bearing packers.   
David

I've received mine far across the pond. I look at that piece of tools and must recommend that you should consider making reel under your name.

Cheers mate, not many people make solid nice tools that way you did it ;-)

P.S: My "The Greaser" will sonn make its way back to ebay.

Quote from: Alto Mare on June 09, 2011, 10:49:06 AM
Alan, I have a gun similar to the one you're showing with the yamalube sticker, I would like to keep that one for the bearing packer. It would be nice to have another gun like the one you're showing below, with the trigger in front for everything else. I can't seem to find it around here, could you let me know where you got yours from? Thanks, Sal

Sal, I found mine at Napa auto parts. $13...The price was right so I bought two. -g

Thanks for the tip Gary. Last week I was at Wallmart getting my boat fishing licence and I spotted the gun on the shelf, I think the price was $3.99 so I also bought two. I already used them on some of my reels, they make the job so much easier. Thanks for thinking of me, Sal

Okay, I have my grease guns. One for the packer and one for the needle, and the deluxe AT bearing packers
Having not used the packer before, what is the correct procedure packing the bearing?
Should the bearing be placed on the pyramid and covered with the top section attached to the gun?
I'm planning on getting started this weekend.
Thanks - gary

Gary, it doesn't matter if you put the bearing in the cup or on the pyramid as long as it fits.  I've been finding that some of the bearings fit in the metric cup and I use the standard pyramid and visa versa.  It just sometimes fits better with a tighter seal.  You will find the method you will like best.

I tried the standard packer (with the line) on bearings for 113h lastnight.
Is this the correct one to use. It's my first and hard to tell without not knowing what
to look for or expect -g

Hi G,

Sorry, Your response didn't even show up on my unread posts.  When using the bearing packer, you will see the grease coming out between the inner race and the shield.  I give it a little more while turning the bearing and back, then I'm done.

Bryan

yes, that is correct.  you should see a little grease squeezing out as well. 

Hey Alan, Let's video the bearing packer in action on a half open and a sealed bearing so that everyone can see it in action.  I'll be sure to bring my camera on Saturday.

Alan,
Would like to get one of your bearing packer, adaptor kits. What is the procedure?
Jim

Send Alan a pm (personal message) with your name and address and he'll ship it out with a bill enclosed. It's hard to beat service like that! :)

actually, i am all out of brass bearing packers.  i have a few prototypes made out of delron.  they look the same but they're 10 times lighter.  i've been shipping a bunch overseas and the shipping expense is way too high.  i put a call into to tom hrynuik this morning.  hopefully he will get back to me.  we need some more.  alan

I am considering this kit but will also need to buy a grease gun as well. One question to Alan is when to stop as the packer is totally enclosed and you can't see the old grease come out. Don't want to waste grease although it wont be much as there's only so much room in the cone.

i prime the cone a little, then watch for grease squeezing through the bearing.

Got my packer. Thank you. I'm still unsure about using it. Hopefully I'll figure it out. Was a video of it being used ever made?

Quote from: kenwahoo on November 25, 2011, 12:02:20 AM
I am considering this kit but will also need to buy a grease gun as well. One question to Alan is when to stop as the packer is totally enclosed and you can't see the old grease come out. Don't want to waste grease although it wont be much as there's only so much room in the cone.

The grease in the guns are the same as we use in the reels, so there's really no waste.  Grease in the cone can be brushed out and saved in a container for use in applying on screws, brushed on internal side plates, etc. 

And the grease comeing out of bearings...well, you may not want that grease anyway.

I was also interested in this bearing packer but I'm not sure what I need and how it works.  If anyone is willing to post up a video or pictures explaining the use of this that would be great.  Thanks.

Have to remake a video.  made one but it looks dark.  Will see if we can make one in the coming week.

Are the kits still available?  I'm interested in the bearing packer as well as the adaptor and needle kit.

Got mine today will be sending out check tomorrow.  Thanks alan

thanks.  i just need an address to ship. 

Quote from: Bryan Young on April 08, 2012, 01:30:08 AM
Have to remake a video.  made one but it looks dark.  Will see if we can make one in the coming week.

Howzit Bryan!

Got mines from Alan the other week and still in the dark on how to properly use it. I'd love to see a video (even a dark one) when you got the time!  Thanks!

Got mine in the mail yesterday.  Another satisfied customer.  I'm hoping to try everything out this weekend.  Thanks, Alan!

Hey Alan, we gotta do a video.  Wanna be the star?

I tried by the lighting was way dark.

Bryan

Quote from: reefmonsta on April 23, 2012, 03:19:08 AM

Quote from: Bryan Young on April 08, 2012, 01:30:08 AM
Have to remake a video.  made one but it looks dark.  Will see if we can make one in the coming week.

Howzit Bryan!

Got mines from Alan the other week and still in the dark on how to properly use it. I'd love to see a video (even a dark one) when you got the time!  Thanks!

Bryan, you talked about this a year ago and we're still waiting and don't tell me or anyone else to do it ... you're in the spotlight ;)

Unfortunately, I cannot film and operate the bearing packer for a demo.  I'm not priviledged and have all of those fancy smancy video or camera gear. 

Quote from: Alto Mare on April 27, 2012, 01:14:24 AM
Bryan, you talked about this a year ago and we're still waiting and don't tell me or anyone else to do it ... you're in the spotlight ;)

Quote from: Bryan Young on April 27, 2012, 05:02:10 AM
Unfortunately, I cannot film and operate the bearing packer for a demo.  I'm not priviledged and have all of those fancy smancy video or camera gear. 

Quote from: Alto Mare on April 27, 2012, 01:14:24 AM
Bryan, you talked about this a year ago and we're still waiting and don't tell me or anyone else to do it ... you're in the spotlight ;)

Bryan,

I am still targeting to be out there sometime next month.  I dont have super fancy gear but do have a point and shoot that does HD video.  If you dont have one done by the time I make it out there I dont mind shooting and editing it up but you are gonna have to fight Alan on who's gonna be the star of the show!   ;D

two left as of today.  got a few delron prototypes, also.

Was wanting to know how I can go about ordering the kit Alan? I would love to order one if they are still available? ???

PM Alan you address and he will send one out to you and you return the money in the enclosed envelope.  If you are overseas, then he will get you his paypal account so that you can pay him via that means.

Thanks Bryan! I appreciate the heads up!
This site is awesome and the info here is priceless!
I love having the ability to absorb all the info from Alan, yourself, and all the other wise ones here.

Do you have any kits left?  How long would it take to receive one?

G'day Alan,
Just wanted to pass on my thanks and appreciation for the delron packers.
They're top-notch and a pleasure to use.
I've been packing bearings for years with a grease gun and a fairly agricultural hydraulic pressure technique, but this is significantly easier and more efficient.
Much appreciated!
Cheers mate, Justin

installed your ss dogs yesterday(storms)justin,thanks,the price was right ;)any update on the 12 tooth

Great - hope they work out well.
No progress on the 12-tooth for the 7500SS as the demand has been low to date. Will let you know when I do it though...
Cheers, Justin
PS I assume you had a couple of little shims to hand for the dogs?

I see that everyone is liking the new/ larger bearing packer in delrin, but when should we be seeing it in metal for us domestic guys?
Thanks
Dom

Dom,

The prototype delrin are the same size as the brass one.  Alan was wondering what he was going to do with all of those prototypes, and didn't want to chuck them.  So they were sent overseas for a reduced shipping fee and it all works out.  Not sure if the larger bearing packers will be made, but I know that I would like a set to 1.5" and mm. equivalence.

I thought the larger packers were made in Delrin as prototypes, but now I see it's the old prototypes from the original packer. I'm in need of a larger packer when they go into production.
Thanks
Dom

Quote from: Bryan Young on June 22, 2012, 12:44:59 AM
Dom,

The prototype delrin are the same size as the brass one.  Alan was wondering what he was going to do with all of those prototypes, and didn't want to chuck them.  So they were sent overseas for a reduced shipping fee and it all works out.  Not sure if the larger bearing packers will be made, but I know that I would like a set to 1.5" and mm. equivalence.

Got mine yesterday, in OZ, for $37.00 landed in WA it looks the goods. I will find out over the weekend after I buy the grease gun, assuming I can find the one that is suitable.
Dave

They work great!
Enjoy the time you'll save,
Dom

Quote from: broadway on June 22, 2012, 02:03:25 AM
I thought the larger packers were made in Delrin as prototypes, but now I see it's the old prototypes from the original packer. I'm in need of a larger packer when they go into production.
Thanks
Dom

for anything larger, you can use the double cone types available at your local auto parts store.  that's why the larger bearing packer never got past the prototype phase. 

erm... i noe im late...
but any left?

btw shipping to singapore!

hopefully within a few weeks.  either ping me again at that time, or send my your mailing address and i can prepare a shipping box and mail it out when it arrives.  thanks!  alan

hi alan! could u give me the total est cost inclusive of shipping to singapore! :)

not sure.  it would be $60 plus the actual cost of postage.  there would be no additional shipping charges. 

k Alan! r they in stock rite now? let me noe n i'll pm ya my address!

still waiting........

Hi Alan,

I'm a new boy on the block and was wondering if you have got these kits back in stock yet?

Thanks for a great site!
Cheers,
Cam

got 'em, but i will not be able to ship them until after i return from my long range trip.  that will be mid month.  if i can get your address, i will ship it out then.  thanks!  alan

oh, and welcome!!!!!!!

Alan,

OK excellent! I will PM you my details, now.

Tight lines and enjoy your trip.

Cheers,

Need to say these bearing packers are pretty darn good.  Actually they look and feel like the finely machined sculptures in brass that they are - they are wonderful just to 'let' others see.  Makes one look quite professional, make one feel quite professional, and allows the maximum service life and continuous performance out of your reels and other small bearings in real world use.

Thank you very much for sending them, they were absolutely worth the wait and fill a niche market very well indeed.  If you service small bearings under 25mm or one inch regularly then you too need these packers!  Lets face it, cost of quality bearings nowdays, just saving two sets of them pays for the packers.

Cheers from downunder.

Alan, you have any these sets left? Really tired of packing with my fingers.

i'm just catching up with pm's, e-mails and posts.  send me your address and i will get one out.  i have a dozen left. 

People, grab 'em they are the dog's danglers (mut's nuts etc.). They save soooo much time!  :)

Man I need one of these...Any plans on getting more made in the near future Alan???

send me a pm with your address and i will get one shipped out. 

To Alan,

A pretty cool tool for greasing bearings.
Could I order one bearing bearing?
I am not live in USA. :-[

Chandler

did you want an entire set, or just part, because i only sell them as a set. 

Quote from: alantani on April 11, 2014, 05:58:15 AM
did you want an entire set, or just part, because i only sell them as a set. 

A entire set.
Could I order one set?
:D

yes, just need an address and i will send a paypal request and ship it out.  for overseas shipping, i will need the following.  please send pm.  thanks!  alan

name:
street address:
city:
state or province:
postal code:
country:
phone number:
email address

Quote from: alantani on April 11, 2014, 10:17:26 PM
yes, just need an address and i will send a paypal request and ship it out.  for overseas shipping, i will need the following.  please send pm.  thanks!  alan

name:
street address:
city:
state or province:
postal code:
country:
phone number:
email address

Gotta say that"Alan Tani is the  man with kindness and sincereness.
I ordered  a bearing packer from Alan  12 April.
My brother received the package today 5th May.
I think this might be his happiest experience at his fishing career.
A great tool for lube, A talent design, it's really amazing.
Make lubing bearings so easy.
Gotta say "Thanks a lot!" to You.

Chandler

i think this was actually the first time i've ever shipped to taiwan.  the only country that has slower mail is canada!  ;D

I need a set too Alan if you have any left! PM sent..

gotcha!

Payment sent! Thank you sir!

Hi Alan, do you have any more of these at the moment. Wouldn't mind getting a set.
Cheers
Matt

yes.  send me a pm with your shipping info and i will mail it out. 

I have ben using these for over a year now and they still work like new. They have saved me hours of time..!!

I have 3 grease guns with 3 different greases and mixes in each one for different applications. Sometimes you need a thinner grease/CorrosionX mix and others need just grease. They new green looking Yamaha grease is great just by itself for most slow moving bearings in large reels.

Another happy customer.  Thanks Alan. ;D

Despite the wealth of information in this thread, I need more help with the bearing packer, which I got because it seemed a cool addition to my new hobby.

I got some new bearings for my avet mxl from Dawn at smoothdrag.  The original avet bearings are sealed.  To my newby eyes, the smoothdrag ones look shielded.  All the better; should be easier to pack without opening them.  Well, a few gobs of grease and several hours later, I am ready to throw in the (greasy) towel.

One thing I may have learned:  push the grease into the packer slooowwwly.  Doing that, the brake bearing oozed some grease around the shield, and I declared victory.  The drive shaft and pinion bearings were another matter.  The only grease appearing on the exposed side of those bearings was oozing around the inner and outer diameters.  I am definitely using the right packer (English, not metric).  I am afraid more pressure holding the two packer halves together would trash the bearing races (and I've already got a worn out pinion bearing, thanks).

Any ideas?  Thanks.

BTW, I removed, cleaned, and greased the MC assembly on this reel.  No trick, of course.  Getting it back in the reel took some effort.  There are a tiny ball and spring that work with the dial detent.  The magnets keep wanting to pull the ball and spring out of position as you put things together.  If there is interest, I will post a little tutorial, though the wizards on this board may have figured it out long ago.

Mike

I pm'ed you hoping you have more of these items in stock.
Thank you for all you do for your fellow fisherman.
Einar

yes, still have them.  i got your e-mail.  thanks!  alan

Will you be making more of these Alan?

yes, they are back in stock.  send me a pm with your address and i will get one shipped out to you!

Perfect, thank you Alan! PM Sent

Hi Alan,

1st of all, great site.  It has been very helpful in maintaining my reels for long-range trips.  How can I purchase the bearing packer, adaptor and needle kit?  Thanks.

send me a pm with your address and i will get one shipped out.  i'll need you to mail me a check.  i am done with paypal unless it's an overseas shipment. 

Got my kit last week, photos don't do it any justice. It's VERY well made with excellent tolerance. Showed it to my co-worker, he didn't even know what it was. The first comment he made, was regarding how impressed he was with the machining.

I found a wonder birthday gift in the mailbox today!  My new bearing packers and a Taniwrench!  Oh and some extra love needles!  Thank Alan great products!   ;D 

you're welcomed!!!!!

Are these still available

Also interested, sent pm..

yes, got your pm, thanks!

Rec'd mine today and can't wait to use it!!

Still looking for the video of one in use......


Thanks Alan

interested , sent pm..

 :) Interested. Mail Sent .

Used it on unshielded bearings last night - worked like a charm but what to do with the excess grease that remains in the cup after you take out the bearing and replace the cone?

not so convinced on how to feel confident that the shielded bearings have the new grease but i will knock it up to inexperience ;)

E-mail sent.

Quote from: ohfishalee on March 31, 2016, 06:15:58 PM
Used it on unshielded bearings last night - worked like a charm but what to do with the excess grease that remains in the cup after you take out the bearing and replace the cone?

not so convinced on how to feel confident that the shielded bearings have the new grease but i will knock it up to inexperience ;)

Daron you will clearly see grease oozing out of the shields on the down side of the bearing once fully packed.  You can use the excess grease for greasing screws, gears, and the like.. or leave it be for the next bearings.  You may want the larger delron bearing Packers for these  larger offshore trolling reels of yours.

Good afternoon Mr. Alan Tani
Are there any of these kit left?  If so what is the price. ?

pm sent!

I scrape out the grease and put it in a little plastic container and use it for lightly greasing other parts of the reel.  A thin coat with a toothbrush etc.  I don't remove it until I have packed all the bearing I plan to for the day.  Only reason I remove it is to make storing until next time easier and cleaner.  I can definitely see the grease come around the shield on the back side so I know I got grease behind the seal. I was skeptical at first but am a true believer now, much faster for me.  Because I deep drop or troll when fishing in the salt of Alaska I grease all bearing including spool.  Still get decent/some free spin but hopefully more protection.  I only service a few times a year.  Ken

Quote from: ohfishalee on March 31, 2016, 06:15:58 PM
Used it on unshielded bearings last night - worked like a charm but what to do with the excess grease that remains in the cup after you take out the bearing and replace the cone?

not so convinced on how to feel confident that the shielded bearings have the new grease but i will knock it up to inexperience ;)

These kits are bad ####. I will try and do a video tutorial on using these!!!

Hi Alan

Wondering if one of these sets can be sent to New Zealand and how much postage is likely to be.

Regards Bruce 

Mine arrived the other day... great workmanship... looks good.. I think I even know how to work it (Though watch out for a post to the contrary)Thanks again Alan!

well, this last batch is finally all gone.  hopefully tom can get another batch done. 

Quote from: red93crxhatch on May 05, 2016, 01:34:14 AM
These kits are bad ####. I will try and do a video tutorial on using these!!!

Hi Guys,
If you want to see the video it was posted July 06 2016.
Return to the listings and scan down for the thread "Video on using Alan Tani's bearing packer"
Many thanks to red93crxhatch for the posting,  8)
Tony

Quote from: ohfishalee on March 23, 2016, 05:25:29 PM
Rec'd mine today and can't wait to use it!!

Still looking for the video of one in use......


Thanks Alan

Hi ohfishalee,
See the posting 118 above,
Tony

Quote from: alantani on May 27, 2016, 01:13:14 AM
well, this last batch is finally all gone.  hopefully tom can get another batch done. 

They are waiting on the shelf! ;D ;D

Hi is this still available? Thank you

yes, got a bunch!  send me a pm with your address and i can get a set out to you!

Hi guys can you please give me a link of gun that is compatible with this packer and can be loaded with 14 oz cartridge grease tube. Thank you in advance!

Pm sent

Hi Alan, I  would be interested in getting your bearing packer.

But then I'm not sure exactly when a bearing should be greased rather than oiled. I thought you said you've switched to using TS 301 on all your bearing because it bonds with the metal and lasts for several years.

There's a product here in Australia Protects Lube which claims to do a similar thing and I've ordered some.

I'm also having trouble fully cleaning out the bearings with pressed in metal shields. Does the bearing packer fully clean these by pushing grease through?

I was going to suggest you maintain a sticky on lubricants and bearings where you can record all your latest tips and lubricants, as when reading through the threads, it's difficult to know which of your tips have been superseded.

i like spool bearings opened, cleaned, lubed in TSI 301 or TSI 321, then installed open.  non-spool bearings i like packed with grease.  they last longer that way.  send a pm or email if i can tempt you with a set!   ;D

I'm noticing using  TSI 301 my reels  are actually getting smoother after sitting in storage for a year or so, it's like magic.
All I usually use is one single drop...good stuff!

Hi alan i pm you for a set just wanna know if you got it. Thank you

For anyone thinking about getting these, you should. I love mine, and they work famously. Never mind the outstanding machine work on them.

Quote from: RiverAngler on August 07, 2016, 11:47:12 PM
For anyone thinking about getting these, you should. I love mine, and they work famously. Never mind the outstanding machine work on them.

X2 :)

It sounds like you're referring to conventional reels. What about spinning reels, e.g. a Stella. What bearings would you grease vs oil with TS301?

I would like maximum free spool plus protection, bearing in mind the Stella has waterproof seals so the water ingress into the bearings shouldn't be an issue unless it is submerged.

Spinners don't have 'free spool' :-\

Quote from: SmashingPumpkins on August 08, 2016, 02:28:57 PM
It sounds like you're referring to conventional reels. What about spinning reels, e.g. a Stella. What bearings would you grease vs oil with TS301?

I would like maximum free spool plus protection, bearing in mind the Stella has waterproof seals so the water ingress into the bearings shouldn't be an issue unless it is submerged.

Trust me, at some point in it's life, waterproof seal or not, salt will get in the reel. I would grease the bearings on either side of the handle shaft/main gear shaft. Any bearings save for spool bearings (and in a lot of case spool bearings as well) used in conventional or spinning reels exposed to salt should be greased. It saves money and frustration in the long term.

Ralph

Quote from: SmashingPumpkins on August 08, 2016, 02:28:57 PM
It sounds like you're referring to conventional reels. What about spinning reels, e.g. a Stella. What bearings would you grease vs oil with TS301?

I would like maximum free spool plus protection, bearing in mind the Stella has waterproof seals so the water ingress into the bearings shouldn't be an issue unless it is submerged.

Grease every bearing except the AR (corrosion X)

Just got my bearing tool from Alan today and this is a quality tool! It was so easy it is almost silly. Here is a pic of my setup below:

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Electronics/C2-pics/i-VjzHkxQ/0/L/IMG_1912-L.jpg) (https://ventnorbeach.smugmug.com/Electronics/C2-pics/i-VjzHkxQ/A)

I like the syringe idea.  I wonder if I can find a really big one first the really big bearings.  Constsntly reloading my little grease gun gets old.

Quote from: RedHeifer on August 15, 2016, 07:25:56 PM
Just got my bearing tool from Alan today and this is a quality tool! It was so easy it is almost silly. Here is a pic of my setup below:

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Electronics/C2-pics/i-VjzHkxQ/0/L/IMG_1912-L.jpg) (https://ventnorbeach.smugmug.com/Electronics/C2-pics/i-VjzHkxQ/A)

Where did you purchase everything ? I like your setup.

Reels...meet bearing packers & grease nozzle. You guys are going to get along great!

Yes, that is a 50+ year old Penn 285 that I got from my father in law. A good cleaning, carbon drag washers, advice from this forum and it's better than new.


Received them the other day. Awesome machine work!

THANKS ALAN!

Thanks to Bryan Young for the SQL12 write up. It helped a lot. I may try experimenting with yolk springs to reduce noise. I'll try to post the results once I get it right.

Quote from: Tightlines666 on April 01, 2016, 04:22:28 AM

Quote from: ohfishalee on March 31, 2016, 06:15:58 PM
Used it on unshielded bearings last night - worked like a charm but what to do with the excess grease that remains in the cup after you take out the bearing and replace the cone?

not so convinced on how to feel confident that the shielded bearings have the new grease but i will knock it up to inexperience ;)

Daron you will clearly see grease oozing out of the shields on the down side of the bearing once fully packed.  You can use the excess grease for greasing screws, gears, and the like.. or leave it be for the next bearings.  You may want the larger

delron bearing Packers

for these  larger offshore trolling reels of yours.

Alan are these available?

yes, send me a pm with your address and i will get it shipped out.  i'll send a pm. thanks!  alan

good morning,

would you have any of these packers still available?

thanks,

got a bunch.  i'll send you an email.  thanks!  alan

Alan,
I sent you a PM yesterday requesting a set of packers, just following up to make sure you received it.

Tom

Quote from: cotradbow on March 14, 2018, 02:30:48 PM
Alan,
I sent you a PM yesterday requesting a set of packers, just following up to make sure you received it.

Tom

Tom,
The Boss is out of the office until Friday😁. I'm sure he will get back at you soon.
Brett

Thank you sir!

Alan,
I received the package today, excellent quality, thank you sir!

Good afternoon, Alan

Is it still available?

Thank you

Quote from: uniontex777 on November 19, 2018, 09:13:39 PM
Good afternoon, Alan

Is it still available?

Thank you

yes, they are still available.  i will send you pm.  thanks!  alan

Alan
I would like to order one.
Regards
Roberto

i will ship one with your reels!!!!!!

Hi Alan,

I just PM'd you a request.
Cheers, Chris

ready to go!

Quote from: scarpie on November 25, 2018, 11:13:08 PM
Hi Alan,

I just PM'd you a request.
Cheers, Chris

Thank you Alan, arrived quicker than I thought and quickly got into playing with it.  Mixed Corrosion X grease with Corrosion X oil and messily half filled the grease gun.  A few messy fills later, I was able to validate the packing by removing the shields to find the grease well packed inside. I'm going to have to find an adapter to convert the converter to fit the needle to my gun nozzle. 

Still have kits available...Joe..Massachusetts

yup, send me a pm!

Joe you will nor regret buying these. I bought a pair eons ago. They are beautifully machined and bearings fit precisely. If you worry about removing shields, to grease a bearing, worry no more. These will push out the old grease and fill with new without removing the shields. Although I still flush with solvent. I screw my small grease gun directly into the packer (use ptfe tape). One of the best specialised tools I have ever bought - thank you Alan (oh and your machinist :D).

(https://alantani.com/gallery/29/9780_13_09_19_3_38_16_29319539.jpeg)

Alan,

Are you going to do another batch of these to sell?

Too keep myself busy in isolation I figured I would repack every bearing I can find, even if it isn't for fishing!
I waited too long to get one of your bearing packers it seems.

Hope all is well with you and the family

Nick

nick, i looked around for a second used set but couldn't find it.  unless ron remembers where it is, i'll have to have a talk with either cortez conversions or another shop about making another run.  it's just hard to tie up so much money all at once.  stay tuned.......   :-\

Alan,

Nothin else to do but wait. Plenty to keep busy with.

If you make another run in the future I will definitely get one

Nick

Quote from: alantani on April 17, 2020, 03:13:04 PM
nick, i looked around for a second used set but couldn't find it.  unless ron remembers where it is, i'll have to have a talk with either cortez conversions or another shop about making another run.  it's just hard to tie up so much money all at once.  stay tuned.......   :-\

Looking forward to this Alan.

I'm in as well if you make another run Alan.

Alan,
I think I took the last half of the kit, we couldn't find the metric piece.
Ron Jones

Alan,  I'm in for a set as well.  Rich

I'm in for a set as well.

back in stock!!!!

Get 'em while you can boys ;)

Hi Alan,

I want one. I'm from Malaysia; do you reckoned it can be shipped internationally during these challenging time?

Best regards,
Asbo

it can be shipped, but the cost of shipping with tracking is almost prohibitive.  if it is shipped first class without tracking, it's only about $24 usd to ship, so the total cost would be about $84 usd.  if that's ok, send me a pm with your full shipping info and cell # and i can get you the exact cost of shipping.  thanks!  alan

Alan, I'll take a set if still available.

Quote from: alantani on April 07, 2010, 05:49:51 AM
i'm out of stock and i'm not sure if or when i will reorder.......

i've had so many guys ask, that i finally had my friend make up a bunch of adaptors for those small grease guns.    

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_19_5.jpeg)

i also ordered a whole bunch of inflator needles and cut the tips off with my dremmel.  

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_14_0.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_16_2.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_16_1.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_13_2.jpeg)

an adaptor and 4-5 inflator needles will sell for $5 plus $3 for shipping included.  these needles make quick work of greasing screw holes.

i've also come to realize how vulnerable bearings are.  a bearing with a seal or a shield held in by a retaining ring can be opened up, hand packed with grease and then re-sealed or re-shielded.  if your bearing has a pressed-in metal shield. the only way to pack it with grease used to require that you remove one of the shields and press the grease in with your thumb.  when you're trying to service a half dozen lever drag reels in one afternoon, packing bearings with your thumbs gets really old.  that's where a bearing packer comes in handy.  i had tom make these as well.  he wanted to make them out of less expensive aluminum, but i said brass.  i just like the look!  

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_20_6.jpeg)

i've been using these for the last month and have been actually quite pleased with myself!  the bearing packer on the left is stepped ever sixteenth of an inch and will accomodate a 1/16ths inch ID to a 1-1/8ths inch OD.  the bearing packer on the right is stepped every millimeter from a 2mm ID to a 26mm OD.  these are designed to accomodate all of the bearings sizes commonly encountered in fishing reels.

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_21_7.jpeg)

the standard bearing packer has a ring and the metric bearing packer is plain.  both are tapped on top to 1/8th inch pipe thread and have a zerx fitting (which i do not particularly like).

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_21_8.jpeg)

the bearings really fit nicely!  i think this is much better than the flat cone that is more commonly seen.

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_24_22_9.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_12_0.jpeg)

the 1/8th inch pipe fitting is common for small grease guns available in the united states.  i prefer to bypass the zerx fitting all together and just bolt the bearing packer directly to the grease gun.  these bearing packers allow you to force grease into a bearing without removing the shield.  it is MUCH quicker.  i'm going to sell the bearing packers for $25 each.  so basically, i am selling a metric bearing packer, a standard inch bearing packer, a nozzle adaptor, and needles for $60 with US shipping.  that's the cost of 5 average shimano bearings!

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_13_1.jpeg)

now for the mea culpa.  i've been using this yamaha grease for a long time now and i purchase it from the local grady dealership.  they had the big cartridges, the small cartridges and the 1 pound cans at the beginning.  for the last few years, they've only had the large cartridges.  so i finally asked the guy, "so what's up?  why don't you carry the small 3 ounce cartridges or the 1 pound cans anymore?"  the answer surprised the hell out of me.  apparently the marine grease is only packed in 14 ounce cartridges.  the others are not marine grade.  they're still blue, but they're intended for motorcycles and snow mobiles!!!!!!  

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_14_3.jpeg)

the greases are both the same, except that the marine grease has an additive that makes it salt water resistant.  

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_15_4.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_16_5.jpeg)

if you want a 3 ounce cartridge of yamaha marine, you have to take an old paper cartridge of any old grease, clean it out really well and then hand pack it with the grease from the 14 ounce cartridge.  trust me, it's a real mess.  your other option is this stuff.  this is evinrude-johnson's marine grease.  it's a little thicker and alot more tackier than the yamaha product, but you have none of the mess.  

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_16_6.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_18_8.jpeg)

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_19_9.jpeg)

here's what they look like side by side.  either way, they will both work fine.  alan

(http://alantani.com/gallery/2/1_01_04_10_2_25_45_0.jpeg)

I was dreading transferring my Yamalube from the 14oz tube into the 3oz tube as I was waiting for the bearing packer to arrive. After a day or two I thought about the old school icing dispenser that Mom used to decorate cakes... https://www.amazon.com/Unetox-Decorating-Supplies-Dispensers-Professional/dp/B07K8H3WWH I didn't use this one, it's just and example. I taped a heavy duty ziploc bag over one end of the 14oz tube and cut a small hole in the corner, then pushed the Yamalube into the bag with a few bunched up paper towels and a screwdriver (also handy for cleaning out the old grease from the 3oz tube). Not 100% clean, but less messy than using a spoon and smothering it into the smaller tube.

Yep, after many years now Im part of the selected Club of owners of these perfected machined tools.


they look like belong to a jewelry glass shelf and not to a greasy reel shop

    For a one time purchase, very nicely made, not having to mess with removing shields it can be time saver... Jeff

Anymore of these available? I would like the large handle for my penn fathom 25.

yup, got lots!  i'll send you a pm.  and welcome!!!!!!

Hi Alan,

How much is a set ship to Brunei?  I need one set for my bearing greasing without removing the shields.  Thanks

Not sure about the cost of shipping,  but it can be up to $30. I'll be back in a week.  If you send me your full mailing address and cell number,  I can figure out the cost.

The tools arrived quickly and the quality is pure perfectionism.

I'm using these to pack my 3802 2RS bearings. I used a little help from my glue press but it's not perfect. I would have and planning to do wooden jigs and change the grease nipple to 90-degree version so I can use the bench vise. It doesnt need much force but it's much easier when you have the bearing and the tools attached to something.

89C20298-A9D7-4976-A7FF-1B685DEF0A98.jpeg

AF1CF109-B9DC-4B34-A97F-215A75C122D3.jpeg

i am sending out my last bearing packer kit in tomorrow's mail.  i let cortez conversion know that i am out.  it may be a while before he can get to them. 

They are a life saver!

I'll be keeping an eye out if you get additional stock in. I'd certainly like to purchase a kit if/when available.

I'm back in a week. Send me a pm with your full mailing address and I'll get one out to you.

PM sent! Thank you, Alan.

Any chance there are any bearing packers available?

yup!  send a pm with your address and i will get you a price.  thanks!  alan