I'm not very mechanically savvy, no experience/confidence and have no workspace so I'm looking for a Jigmaster expert to asses and upgrade my 500 for me. I'd like to have the gear sleeve replaced with SS, install a power handle with xl round knob, install a 5+1 drag stack and anything else recommended by the repairer. I'm willing to pay for "labor" and all the parts.
I'm sure for all you guys who have been doing this for years it wouldn't be very hard or take too long so if anyone is interested please let me know.
Thanks
PJ
Please post where you are located. There are many competent people on here that can do this for you.
Keith
I'm located in Three Rivers, CA (Central Valley) but would but willing to ship the reel to anyone interested in the project
That is about 50 miles from me.
If you want to send it to me for an assessment of what is needed/wanted -- PM me, and I will respond with a mailing address. Am just a little down from Shaver Lake -- an hour above Fresno.
Sounds like just a few things needed, along with a service -- we can discuss more once I have the reel in hand.
Should be an easy deal...
Best,
Fred
You have the right guy there PJ. Fred is a Machine. ;)
PJ, Fred has been doing this for years and is as good as it gets around here. I'm in Fresno and can help as well.
Big Tim
It's really kind of plug in and play. The guys here have done all the work to make it easy:
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2506_zpsd32de6e8.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2506_zpsd32de6e8.jpg.html)
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2507_zps77e783d6.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2507_zps77e783d6.jpg.html)
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2508_zps10b8d297.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2508_zps10b8d297.jpg.html)
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2513_zps20ffcfbd.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2513_zps20ffcfbd.jpg.html)
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2515_zpsffc582b9.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2515_zpsffc582b9.jpg.html)
[(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2520_zps95633dea.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2520_zps95633dea.jpg.html)
URL=http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2517_zpsf5a3c434.jpg.html](http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2517_zpsf5a3c434.jpg)[/URL]
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2521_zpsacc18968.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2521_zpsacc18968.jpg.html)
(http://i743.photobucket.com/albums/xx76/fresnotim/100_2522_zps1a684d49.jpg) (http://s743.photobucket.com/user/fresnotim/media/100_2522_zps1a684d49.jpg.html)
Quote from: foakes on April 14, 2015, 11:26:38 PM
That is about 50 miles from me.
If you want to send it to me for an assessment of what is needed/wanted -- PM me, and I will respond with a mailing address. Am just a little down from Shaver Lake -- an hour above Fresno.
Sounds like just a few things needed, along with a service -- we can discuss more once I have the reel in hand.
Should be an easy deal...
Best,
Fred
Fred Thank you for your kind offer and I'd like to take you up on it....you have a pm
Hi PJ --
Returned PM with info.
There are many Jigmaster experts on this site -- and any will do a very competent job for you. I am only one of many.
Tim, for example, has done some very impressive work.
What I do tends to run on the conservative side -- although there is nothing wrong with a full blown conversion -- just depends on what your intended targets and fishing methods require.
Millions of fish have been caught with stock Jigmasters -- a few key upgrades just make a stronger, better performing reel.
Once your reel is in hand and returned to you -- if you are satisfied, you might consider working on your reels yourself. All that is needed is a couple of trays, basic tools, Penn wrench (I will give you one if needed), synthetic oil, marine grease, drag grease, basic cleaning materials, some rags, and a couple of old toothbrushes.
Sometime, we can schedule a couple of hours to just go through one of your reels -- to get familiar and confidence in a few basic processes. You can swing by the shop -- and we can go over everything to get started. You will learn to do a basic breakdown, cleaning, inspection, evaluation, cleaning, replace any worn parts, reassemble, adjust, tune for max performance, set reel up for the salt, etc.
You may or may not like doing this -- but most people just need a few pointers, and a little hands on mentoring.
Nothing better than the confidence in knowing how and why your reels operate to their maximum -- and the fact that you did it yourself.
Education, experience, and understanding -- is everything.
Best,
Fred
Quote from: foakes on April 15, 2015, 06:00:32 PM
Hi PJ --
Returned PM with info.
There are many Jigmaster experts on this site -- and any will do a very competent job for you. I am only one of many.
Tim, for example, has done some very impressive work.
What I do tends to run on the conservative side -- although there is nothing wrong with a full blown conversion -- just depends on what your intended targets and fishing methods require.
Millions of fish have been caught with stock Jigmasters -- a few key upgrades just make a stronger, better performing reel.
Once your reel is in hand and returned to you -- if you are satisfied, you might consider working on your reels yourself. All that is needed is a couple of trays, basic tools, Penn wrench (I will give you one if needed), synthetic oil, marine grease, drag grease, basic cleaning materials, some rags, and a couple of old toothbrushes.
Sometime, we can schedule a couple of hours to just go through one of your reels -- to get familiar and confidence in a few basic processes. You can swing by the shop -- and we can go over everything to get started. You will learn to do a basic breakdown, cleaning, inspection, evaluation, cleaning, replace any worn parts, reassemble, adjust, tune for max performance, set reel up for the salt, etc.
You may or may not like doing this -- but most people just need a few pointers, and a little hands on mentoring.
Nothing better than the confidence in knowing how and why your reels operate to their maximum -- and the fact that you did it yourself.
Education, experience, and understanding -- is everything.
Best,
Fred
Fred
I returned your pm and will get the reel in the mail.
Thank you
PJ
Pj, this is one reel that you could definitely assemble on your own. The new custom stainless steel bridge that I highly recommend, comes with pre assembled dogs and springs, very easy to set in place. We have many tutorials that could assist you an also, we're here if you get stuck.
I'm sure it's not going to take you 5 minutes as it usually takes me, but with a little more time, I have no doubts that you could do it.
We've made the jigmaster very easy to service, others will be just as easy, the 113H is next.
Skip my comment if you've already made arrangements with Fred..
Sal
Hi PJ --
Opened up your package this afternoon with your Jigmaster 500 you sent me.
The reason I am answering this way in the forum -- is so others may learn and/or contribute as possible -- because no one knows everything -- especially me.
First --
Inspected reel and operation -- issues discovered were:
Drag not holding well --
Low drag numbers --
Brass sleeve scored and chewed up a bit --
The spring washer for the drag stack was under the star -- not under the spacer and on top of the drag stack --
Someone had at some point switched out the sleeve with one from a 505, and the star was also fine thread --
Gear was stock speed at 4:1
When the star drag was backed off -- the spool would bind up to a poorly operable point --
When this reel was recently serviced -- there was too much oil in areas, not enough grease in other areas, no grease on the screw threads
All of the screws were way over tightened -- this will put the frame assembly in a twisted tweak sometimes
Second:
Switched some parts around to eliminate possibilities -- and find the culprits causing the issues --
Cleaned up reel to remove too much oil and grease in wrong areas --
Replaced sleeve with a new one
Replaced star with a larger one from a 49 -- since it is recessed to give more star drag travel --
Ground about 1/16" off of a new spacer to also allow more drag adjustment --
Replaced wrong size under gear washer with a smaller CF with Cal's drag grease --
Greased all drag washers with Cal's --
Greased all gears and internal parts with Yamaha Marine grease -- oiled with synthetic oil
Reassembled, adjusted, tuned
Replaced spool -- your spool is bad, and somehow tweaked -- likely a slightly bent tail shaft, it appears --
Added a ringed clamp and bolt assembly to the stand
End result:
Switched with an old 3 piece spool -- there is 61, 63, and 64 seconds of free spool
Reel now has somewhere over 12 pounds of measured drag
Smooth and quiet
Recommendations:
New Aluminum spool
SS sleeve
SS dog
Power handle crank with your choice of knob
If you wish more drag (likely not needed) -- such as a 5 stack from Bryan -- you should also opt for SS gears and a Tiburon frame -- otherwise frame tweaking and/or gear stripping may occur --
Try the reel with 30 pound Big Game -- otherwise, with braid you will possibly wear out the line guides on the rod you purchased --
I can send the reel back to you, and there is no charge, except postage --
Anything you want to add is easy enough for you to do yourself, at this point --
Or you can order what you decide you need from Bryan, Alan, or others here -- and have them ship it to me -- and I will install -- then send back to you.
Or just try it as is --
Let me know...
Best,
Fred
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/8A4C9EC4-116A-4269-92A6-67A674F44453_zpscczuxjco.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/8A4C9EC4-116A-4269-92A6-67A674F44453_zpscczuxjco.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/E3357433-9F1D-4083-9240-2A46C1D15CA4_zpsvmlkbtze.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/E3357433-9F1D-4083-9240-2A46C1D15CA4_zpsvmlkbtze.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/8308E038-EA16-41A2-80E3-5513A4015097_zpsw2mzrvjh.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/8308E038-EA16-41A2-80E3-5513A4015097_zpsw2mzrvjh.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/8FB07401-BBB1-4BB0-AC86-C601477179A0_zpsnru3sxrq.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/8FB07401-BBB1-4BB0-AC86-C601477179A0_zpsnru3sxrq.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/1831E678-8A22-4C61-A120-94C1BE949C3C_zpsnnyui7mq.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/1831E678-8A22-4C61-A120-94C1BE949C3C_zpsnnyui7mq.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/582DA103-6771-4385-80EA-ACA8AC5D370E_zpskexrfdz7.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/582DA103-6771-4385-80EA-ACA8AC5D370E_zpskexrfdz7.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/D05AD00E-181A-421C-B316-DB9296504C1D_zpsispyxpkl.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/D05AD00E-181A-421C-B316-DB9296504C1D_zpsispyxpkl.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/1CD9D89F-565D-4216-BBA2-36F09F0C913A_zpslmvmkr40.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/1CD9D89F-565D-4216-BBA2-36F09F0C913A_zpslmvmkr40.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/21B7B995-08C8-4B85-BD6A-1F9FDBF88BD5_zpskmzfcs0k.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/21B7B995-08C8-4B85-BD6A-1F9FDBF88BD5_zpskmzfcs0k.jpg.html)
(http://i748.photobucket.com/albums/xx130/foakes1/FBCEF114-C4CB-4303-A7A9-C37CA004C1D4_zps3azrnq6u.jpg) (http://s748.photobucket.com/user/foakes1/media/FBCEF114-C4CB-4303-A7A9-C37CA004C1D4_zps3azrnq6u.jpg.html)
As usual, very nice job Fred, I must say though, the 10-49 star being recessed doesn't really give you additional travel, well it does on the 49, 149, 349, 113 and some others, but not on the jigmaster.
Penn did not do a good job on the jigmaster by having the right side spool bushing at the same height as the plate sleeve. If you did have more travel, the 10-49 would hit that right side bushing, while the sleeve would ride on the recessed area.
We need another 1/8" in length on the Jigmaster's gear sleeve, but no one is listening. :-\
Quote from: Alto Mare on April 25, 2015, 02:13:11 AM
We need another 1/8" in length on the Jigmaster's gear sleeve, but no one is listening. :-\
And a replaceable "ratchet".
Quote from: Keta on April 25, 2015, 02:15:47 AM
Quote from: Alto Mare on April 25, 2015, 02:13:11 AM
We need another 1/8" in length on the Jigmaster's gear sleeve, but no one is listening. :-\
And a replaceable "ratchet".
Yup! These on all reels would be a good upgrade:
http://alantani.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=13836.0;attach=11892;image
Great work as usual Fred. He should be very happy with that reel.
You are absolutely right, Sal --
In this case, all we are doing is trying to get a little more star drag travel (between lockdown to backed off completely) -- while doing the best we can with a stock reel. The larger star just gives us additional leverage and is easier to operate quickly. While the shaving of the sleeve gives us a greater amount of travel between the two extremes.
And when a reel like this bottoms out at the highest drag setting against the bushing -- it is still riding somewhat on the oiler ball bearing -- instead of the metal sideplate sleeve opening. This reel will not bottom out, since only 3/32" was shaved off. Most of our fishing out here off of the coast is using a drag setting between half to 3/4s of full compression.
It would be really nice to have a 1/8" longer sleeve in SS.
That is one reason why Carl Newell offered the lower profile brown Delrin side bushing on the handle side for these old Jigmasters. With a recessed star, and his upgraded thin smoothies -- generally a 4 stack -- one could get the star down below the metal sleeve opening, if desired.
This reel will likely remain stock appearing on the outside, except for a good handle -- along with a few key upgrades on the inside.
Who can make those sleeves for us?
Best,
Fred
Fred, there are a few that could get it done for us, but none willing to do it, this is why I said no one is listening ;D.
You still did good using the 10-49 on the jigmaster, I do it myself. The 10-49 feels much better than the 10-60.
Sal
Is the 10-49 for the fine threaded gear sleeve
Quote from: txangler81 on April 25, 2015, 01:53:29 PM
Is the 10-49 for the fine threaded gear sleeve
No, that would be a 10-505.
Fred thanks for taking a look at the reel. I got it at a yard sale for $10 so I'm not surprised it has some issues....
For the kind of fishing done out of Morro Bay is it necessary to upgrade the drag?
What's the benefit to the SS double dogs?
Sorry for all the questions....
Thanks again
Pj
Personally, PJ --
JMO --
A new aluminum spool
SS Sleeve
(1) SS dog
Power handle of your choice
30 pound Berkely Big Game
12 pounds is the ideal drag for this reel -- any more will necessitate a solid frame, SS gear set, double dogs, 5 stack drag kit, braid, and possibly more.
The upgrades and mods are for when you are stressing a reel beyond the factory specs. Your reel is now already better than factory -- so you may just decide to try it out as is.
Bear in mind, the reel is perfectly capable of anything off of the Coast except perhaps larger Albacore that may be out 25 to 50 miles -- at certain times of the year. This will handle Lings, snapper, halibut, salmon, and most other species commonly encountered.
These are very good reels -- with a 4:1 ratio, will do most any type of fishing you may get into.
And this will always be a great extra reel, if you decide to find a Senator 4/0, 6/0, or something heavier. And it can still be your "go to" reel for most situations.
And the choices are yours -- but if you decide to dive down the rabbit hole into custom modifications -- you will quickly lose sight of your checkbook in the rear view mirror.
Nothing wrong doing all the mods -- I would just make sure they are really what you think you need before spending the $$$. The Mods are not for everyone -- just us weird reel heads -- and you may be one of us?
Anything can be done later, after you use the reel for a few trips.
There are no issues with the reel now -- it is ready to fish -- and I would have no hesitation using it tomorrow.
So I will send it back Monday -- along with a wrench -- or do any mods you request.
Best,
Fred
i know i'm a little late to this post, but i must invoke the $20 rule! ;D
Agree 100%, Alan --
So far, PJ is at $6 return postage --
Best,
Fred
I'd like to have you do the upgrades you recommended
A new aluminum spool
SS Sleeve
(1) SS dog
Power handle of your choice
I'm still a little hesitant about working on this myself...
Quote from: alantani on April 25, 2015, 05:58:25 PM
i know i'm a little late to this post, but i must invoke the $20 rule! ;D
what's the $20 rule?
Quote from: pjstevko on April 25, 2015, 08:21:11 PM
Quote from: alantani on April 25, 2015, 05:58:25 PM
i know i'm a little late to this post, but i must invoke the $20 rule! ;D
what's the $20 rule?
If I had to guess I would probably say for new drags, but that doesn't even cover it :-\.
The Jigmaster is rated at 15 Lb max from Penn, invest $70 for the custom bridge and sleeve and you will have a reel that is matched by no others
at that price.
The upgrades are there for you to take advantage of... go for it ;)
My Jigmasters with the works will handle 20 lb and still remain very smooth all the way.
There are other options out there, as buying a different reel, to me personally, that option doesn't exist.
This is just myopinion, do as you please.
Sal
I have a 505 that I have had for many years and fished out of Moro Bay with it for years before doing anything other than hosing it down and a bit of oil here and there. Been fishing 30# on forever and finally did new drags and a stock gear sleeve. Lings, reds, WSB, halibut all on the same reel. This being said I also have a jigmaster that I went over my $200.00 rule ;D ;D ;D you will be fine with what Fred is doing and it will last forever.
Big Tim
Quote from: foakes on April 25, 2015, 05:53:30 PM
Personally, PJ --
JMO --
A new aluminum spool
SS Sleeve
(1) SS dog
Power handle of your choice
30 pound Berkely Big Game
12 pounds is the ideal drag for this reel -- any more will necessitate a solid frame, SS gear set, double dogs, 5 stack drag kit, braid, and possibly more.
The upgrades and mods are for when you are stressing a reel beyond the factory specs. Your reel is now already better than factory -- so you may just decide to try it out as is.
Bear in mind, the reel is perfectly capable of anything off of the Coast except perhaps larger Albacore that may be out 25 to 50 miles -- at certain times of the year. This will handle Lings, snapper, halibut, salmon, and most other species commonly encountered.
These are very good reels -- with a 4:1 ratio, will do most any type of fishing you may get into.
And this will always be a great extra reel, if you decide to find a Senator 4/0, 6/0, or something heavier. And it can still be your "go to" reel for most situations.
And the choices are yours -- but if you decide to dive down the rabbit hole into custom modifications -- you will quickly lose sight of your checkbook in the rear view mirror.
Nothing wrong doing all the mods -- I would just make sure they are really what you think you need before spending the $$$. The Mods are not for everyone -- just us weird reel heads -- and you may be one of us?
Anything can be done later, after you use the reel for a few trips.
There are no issues with the reel now -- it is ready to fish -- and I would have no hesitation using it tomorrow.
So I will send it back Monday -- along with a wrench -- or do any mods you request.
Best,
Fred
Fred if you say it's good to go as is then just send it back to me with a bill for your time, parts replaced and shipping.
Thanks again
pj
OK, PJ --
I'm thinking your decision is good at this point -- try it out -- then just service once a season, wash off after every trip, pull off the quick release sideplate -- putting a little oil and grease in before a trip -- you are good to go -- and if you decide on upgrades -- I can do that for you anytime.
However, I would recommend picking up a NEW 29L-500 aluminum spool. Spool it with 30 LB mono, such as Berkely Big Game -- and it will perform well.
I will be sending your reel back tomorrow with the 3 piece spool I put on for testing, and your old spool that is shaft-tweaked. Just keep the 3 piece, spool it with 30 LB also -- then you will have a backup for a quick change out when your line is damaged and the fish won't stop biting.
N/C -- just send a five and a one for return postage whenever you get a chance.
Best,
Fred
Nicely done Fred, unlucky for me i had just to give mines away to a friend that really want it.
Fred if you're not gonna take my $$$ for your time then I'll buy you a couple beers if we ever get to fish together :)
I'll order a spool soon....
Sounds good,
Fred
I just ordered a new spool from Scotts
and this new handle
Looks good, PJ --
When installing the handle, compress the star drag down as far as possible, out of the way -- then install the handle -- making sure it is snug on the sleeve end -- and the crank nut is tight -- then screw in the keeper screw for the nut.
Always store the reel with the drag backed off to loose -- this will save the spring and allow the drags to not be compressed all of the time.
I will send out a Penn wrench with your reel today.
Also, if using mono -- use about 25 yards of Dacron for a backing on the spool arbor when spooling. This will prevent the mono from slipping.
Show us some pictures of your next trip -- and your reel after you install the spool, line, and new handle.
Best,
Fred
Quote from: foakes on April 27, 2015, 03:56:28 PM
Looks good, PJ --
When installing the handle, compress the star drag down as far as possible, out of the way -- then install the handle -- making sure it is snug on the sleeve end -- and the crank nut is tight -- then screw in the keeper screw for the nut.
Always store the reel with the drag backed off to loose -- this will save the spring and allow the drags to not be compressed all of the time.
I will send out a Penn wrench with your reel today.
Also, if using mono -- use about 25 yards of Dacron for a backing on the spool arbor when spooling. This will prevent the mono from slipping.
Show us some pictures of your next trip -- and your reel after you install the spool, line, and new handle.
Best,
Fred
I'm assuming that means turn the star drag as close to the reel frame as possible right?
Also I'll get your payment in the mail on Saturday, I hope that's ok....
Quote from: foakes on April 27, 2015, 03:56:28 PM
Also, if using mono -- use about 25 yards of Dacron for a backing on the spool arbor when spooling. This will prevent the mono from slipping.
This is my preferred way to spool a reel with Spectra but I have a lot of Dacron line.
Right, PJ --
That is just a little trick I have learned over the years -- all it does, is insure the handle crank is seated as snugly as possible on the top of the sleeve -- prior to tightening the handle nut.
This way, you won't be tightening the handle nut against the star -- then when increasing the drag -- the handle becomes loose.
These brass sleeves will generally hold up just fine at 12 to 15 pounds of drag -- providing they are tightly fastened to the sleeve top.
When a handle is loose -- is when a sleeve will round off.
No rush on the postage $$$ -- sent your reel, spool, and wrench back day before yesterday -- ETA is 4/30/2015 -- tomorrow.
Best,
Fred
Since I have a new spool and handle coming in the mail do you want the old spool and handle for your repair business????
No, Keep it for a back up PJ --
Always good to have a spare all spooled up in your bucket -- with the quick change out thumb screw -- you can reload in less than 30 seconds.
I have plenty -- glad to get you started -- and it is actually a very good spool.
Over a minute of free spool...
Have plenty of handles also ...thanks, anyway...
I also included your old aluminum spool that seems to have a bent end, or something. You might get lucky and find a way to true it up -- it is in good condition, except it binds. About 1 time out of ten, I can get the end back in alignment. Try it for yourself -- and you will see what I mean about the binding. It is not bad -- but far from perfect.
Maybe one of the other experts on the forum knows a trick to straighten these spool ends?
Best,
Fred
Fred,
Thank you for helping out an unknown friend, you've been too kind!!!!
PJ