Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Obviously, I don't mind customizing reels. Again, if it didn't destroy some historical significance and/or value. And to each their own as far as aesthetics. I do have my own likes and dislikes.

The esp like the wrinkle finish. Always have. And it's durable, esp when heated I've read. I don't have an oven available like Fred has done. So I've used a heat gun. Don't know how that'll pan out over time.

I did a Pflueger Nobby recently using metallic Rustoleum. I'm guessing it won't hold up terribly well. Although a while back I Rustoleum'd a spinner  and it held up surprisingly well.

Greg, nothing like manual bail closure for sneak fishing. Been there once or twice, once upon a time. And thanks so much for the parts offer. I've been threatening to send Fred a list but just haven't got round to it. I need so little, really. Kindof waiting til I have a worthwhile list.

I look at this the same way I look at customizing classic cars. They are only original once.  So, I hate to see a nice clean original car modified, but if modifying and customizing an old beater saves it from the crusher and gives the owner pleasure, why not?

Oh, I agree, beauty and functionality is all in the eyes of the beholder, I've just never been a fan of the dull wrinkled or textured paint concept on reels, or cars, but if it trips one's trigger good for them. If I was buying something use, though, that would be my last option.

Before Abu's Ambassadeur 5000 was released in the US, it was introduced at the 1954 World's Fair in Chicago. Three reels were displayed, one each in dark green, gold, and cranberry red. The public was to vote for the color it liked best. When the votes were tallied, green was the winner. But Abu's then owner Gote Borgstrom liked red, and so started the then "red reel" craze. The 5000 was the reel to have, light years ahead of all other casting reels, red or otherwise.

Popular voting and "focus groups" created all sorts of abominations, most notably the Pontiac Aztek.  Sometimes a dictator just has to make the call and be done with it. If the boss wants red, red it is.
https://blog.codinghorror.com/the-pontiac-aztek-and-the-perils-of-design-by-committee/

I'm not much interested in blanket ideological or political talk.

I prefer original paint color when available, but if a reel is missing a lot of paint(after it's made functional) they are good candidates for powder coating.

I've seen both tasteful and wild modifications.  Some of each have been good.  If I'm going to use a reel, I don't want to worry about the finish.  I'm not going to neglect it, but sometimes things get a little rough.  If it's a keepsake, I'd prefer the original finish first, then maybe a pinstripe to personalize it.

Regarding the sounds these classics make, I think it's part of their charm....like a Model A or a Poppin' Johnny tractor....or a screamin' Telecaster, each have unique sounds.  Consider it positive feedback.  

Quote from: Shellbelly on January 23, 2023, 12:21:27 AMRegarding the sounds these classics make, I think it's part of their charm....like a Model A or a Poppin' Johnny tractor....or a screamin' Telecaster, each have unique sounds.  Consider it positive feedback.

I'm with you, if my reel is too quiet I'm wondering what is wrong with it?