can the drive side plate assy with handle, etc all be removed by just taking the 3 side plate screws of ( and maybe the two lever stop screws) ?. or do I need to remove the handle ? All this bearing failure talk has me wantingto pull and measure the bearings ( or I could order them from Dawn or from Avet)
The handle needs to come off.
There is a sequence of steps.
First, remove the 3 sideplate screws. Then remove the preset drag knob (while holding the spool shaft from spinning. Now you will have access to the drive area. You will then have to remove the handle, slide out the main gear, and then you have access to the pinion bearing. If you run into any problems, post pics and you question.
first i remove the arm n handle before the right side plate. just works better for me, just 2 cents...
http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=238.0
There is a method to the madness. I like to take things apart in the order that I put them back together.