I have been fishing since I can first remember anything, and in 48 years I've yet to take a reel apart. Reading through all these posts on servicing and upgrading reels, the bug has BIT!
I'm looking for info on tools, lubricants and anything I might need to get started? I recently bought a Penn Monofil No.27 and Penn 190, both are in great condition on the outside, but before
I open them up I want to be prepared for it. I figured I would start on some older reels first, mainly for the nostalgia of it, not sure if this is a good idea or not? Any suggestion on supplies would be greatly appreciated.
Signed,
Newbie
Run away / seek help, etc. ;D
It gets worse from here.
Rob
ETA: Keep reading the board(s). I went with some marine grease that is $4 a tub versus $20 for blue stuff. I don't fish a ton. Have fun!
Actually the Penn reel wrench that came with the reel will take both of your reels apart. Stay wth newer Penn lubes (oil & their blue grease). As you become addicted you can upgrade your tooling. The small Lutz screwdriver that sells for about $3 in hardware stores is a good tool to start with. It fits the 5-40 side plate screws and is hollow ground (save buggering up screw slots) Alan's wrench is next on the list.
Thanks guys, I need all the help I can get, love this site!
One thing to keep in mind is AR springs fly and usually to Never Never Land. I try to keep several on hand at all times.
I got in a habit of putting down a towel, trying to work in a small plastic tub when possible to catch those flying things. The towel will keep them from bouncing to oblivion. The two things have helped reduce the amount of time I spend on the floor with a flashlight looking for the lost part.
Besides a Penn lube kit, a lb tub of marine bearing grease as above, Cal's Drag grease, Corrosion X or Speed X for bearings, white vinegar for corrosion removal, simple green and WD 40 for grease removal (DO NOT USE GREEN ON ALUMINUM!!!) and cookie sheet / lunch tray with towels as sagely advised above. I find 95% of my tool work is a flathead screwdriver, Philips, adjustable wrench for clamp nuts, Alan Tani's penn wrench (tho penn stock wrench is fine), ice pick for centering plates on rings, and a toothbrush. 0000 steel wool, NeverDull, and a dremel set probably gets me to 98% of my basic services. you may need an hex-drive set also. Harbor Freight T-handle set is $7.
You can go as in-depth as you wish, but this is what I recco to guys just looking to do their own basic service as all are usually locally available except Cal's grease, which Smooth Drag and Mystic both have and should be part of your parts order straight away. You should be able to put that kit together for under $50, which is the cost of two reel services generally speaking.
John
Thanks for all the great advice, much appreciated, still going through other posts and learning a lot! Ordering some supplies today too!