I recently got my first LP bait-caster, a Komodo 364 (like https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17311.0) but was unable to do my usual pre-fishing service because the small retaining rings inside stumped me. They aren't e-clips or c-clips. McMaster calls them flat-tip constant section rings. The specialized pliers that McMaster sells are too big for the rings in this reel. If my hands were smaller and my eyes better, I could probably attack these rings with a couple of fish hooks and send them into orbit, or maybe just stab my fingers immediately and end the suspense.
So what are a few tools to have for working on LP bait-casters, especially to deal with these retainer rings? Thanks.
Mike
Any photos Mike?
There should be a law against those things. I've had to remove a few using two picks. But, never got one to go back on before it was lost. I'm not sure they were really intended to be reusable. You can make a facsimile by wrapping wire around a drill bit and then cutting out a ring with nips.
-steve
maybe, smallest wire-forming or tweezer pliers:
https://www.mcmaster.com/2972n6
https://www.mcmaster.com/5261A14/
Thanks for the replies. It will be a little while before I can open the reel to get pictures; too busy chasing striped bass at the moment. :->
These clips go by various names — but generally, if you look up "flat-ring retainer clips" — then the tools to remove and reinstall them will become apparent.
These are commonly used on vehicle transmissions where strength as well as solid holding characteristics are required.
At least a dozen manufacturers make these tools — SK, Snap-on, Proto, Knipex, and some Asian imports — which may or may not be of a durable quality. The most expensive tool to buy — is a cheaply made one that breaks or will not function as needed efficiently. It is a 100% dead loss.
That doesn't mean you have to buy the most expensive one. But shop around on line, look at the ratings, return policies, and prices.
These rings are typically made of SS — and will be ruined by the wrong tool — or lost into low Earth orbit.
For the small guys we use in reels — hobby specialists or shops will have both the rings and the tools available.
Best,
Fred
Thanks, Fred. What is that pictured tools?
Knipex, Mike —
Possibly the best around — and pricey — and it is not necessary to spend this much.
Part of my background at a young age was electronics. Both tech as well as home wiring.
I inherited a pair of Knipex Diagonal cutters — which are bullet-proof and as good as new after me snipping 4 to 16 gauge wire for over 50 years — and they were used when I got them.
If one ever wants an education in pliers (of all the simplest things, right?) — Knipex has the best 283 page catalog, tech specs, and pro-grade selection that anyone could ever want.
If you start with the information on Knipex pliers — then look for other similar specs and brands — much cheaper pliers can be found — but none better, period...
About the only time professionals need to replace these pliers in their lifetimes — is when they are lost or walk away.
Best, Fred
http://knipex-tools.com/fileadmin/site/knipex-tools/files/Catalog_USA_2019_HR-compressed.pdf
Thanks again, Fred. Christmas is coming. Hmmm.
Quote from: mike1010 on November 02, 2020, 09:33:58 PM
I recently got my first LP bait-caster, a Komodo 364 (like https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17311.0) but was unable to do my usual pre-fishing service because the small retaining rings inside stumped me. They aren't e-clips or c-clips. McMaster calls them flat-tip constant section rings. The specialized pliers that McMaster sells are too big for the rings in this reel. If my hands were smaller and my eyes better, I could probably attack these rings with a couple of fish hooks and send them into orbit, or maybe just stab my fingers immediately and end the suspense.
So what are a few tools to have for working on LP bait-casters, especially to deal with these retainer rings? Thanks.
Mike
I dont recall seeing those kind of rings on the komodo, I serviced mine and looked at my pics and could found it, maybe I missed a part that I thought it wasnt necesary to unistall, on the link you posted of the komodo364 tutorial, I also didnt saw that ring, but I have saw it in other reels and yes, the are a PITA to work with, normally I use a small and thin flat screwdriver and a another with a pick tip and cover the reel and my hands with a plastic bag because 4 of 5 times that method make the ring to jump to neverland.
Fred - totally agree - Knipex are my goto for pliers (including various split rings) cutters bolt croppers etc. Wiha and Wera for screwdrivers and bits. None of them cheap but they do last ;)
It's funny how good used tools (kniplex, Klein, etc.) hold their value so well. If you can find what you're looking for in used, they cost about as much as new.
-steve
Try this for the tired old eyes, 3 progressive lenses, with the round magnifier down A wrapping thread looks like a hawser. Harbor Freight, five bucks
Quote from: Tiddlerbasher on November 12, 2020, 10:24:08 PM
Fred - totally agree - Knipex are my goto for pliers (including various split rings) cutters bolt croppers etc. Wiha and Wera for screwdrivers and bits. None of them cheap but they do last ;)
The cheapest and best value tools are the ones that you don't need to replace in your lifetimes — and are always ready and effective.
Whether one is a professional, or an amateur like most of us — this is true either way.
All a good quality tool ever asks of us — is to be in a readily accessible & useful location, cleaned, dried, and oiled occasionally after big jobs — and appreciated. Like a best friend — you take care of each other.
We can't pay too much for a quality tool — or too little for a cheap one.
There are many bargains out there in the world for new and used tools — just educate yourselves, be patient — and the deals will come along as you build the tool arsenal that works for your operation and projects.
Best, Fred