The upgraded Penn 113HN/US113 Senator Bridge Assemblies are here!
This is Bridge assembly specifically designed for those who want to run drag numbers at or above the recommended maximum settings on your
Baja Special or 113 US Senator family of reels.
Read the discussion here: http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17972.0
Here it is:
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0840_zpspupyr1yy.jpg)
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0841_zpskzipne79.jpg)
The bridge comes fully assembled ,drop in ready, with the following components:
Modified Penn Bridge 3-113HN
One piece construction, hardened 416 stainless steel gear sleeve.
Hardened 17-4 stainless steel dogs.
Modified Penn dog springs 14-15KG
Stainless steel dog posts.
Stainless steel washers, screws, and cir-clips.
Delrin washer to replace Penn 4-155 under gear washer.(not pictured)
Because of the assembly time, shipping on these will have a two week lead time.
Price, including shipping is $65.00 each.
Rob will have them on the website in the next few days.
I want to thank everyone for their input, especially Jeff and Alex for the hands on testing!
Tom
You knocked that one out of the Park Tom!
Excellent work my Man! ;)
Great work Tom. I'm now waiting to hear from Penn (Tony?) on their thoughts. Rudy
That just makes me want to go out and buy a 113HN.
Hey Alex, batter up!!!!
Tom,
So this bridge assembly will work in a 133H?
Dave Babcock
113H?
Quote from: speedwagon2 on November 13, 2016, 11:36:51 PM
Tom,
So this bridge assembly will work in a 133H?
Dave Babcock
Baja & U S Senator. It will not fit a 113 4/0 Senator or 113H Special Senator.
Quote from: thorhammer on November 13, 2016, 10:04:11 PM
Hey Alex, batter up!!!!
You betcha John
Gonna wait until available in two weeks and will get one for my 2nd Baja Special, my panga guide will get another in december and I will recommed it to any of the local hardcore guys with Baja Special
@Tom, your welcome amigo, it was a pleasure to help on the testing id this terrific upgrade part
Dave, as mentioned, this only fits the 113HN Baja Special and the three new(ish) 113 U.S. Senator reels.
Rob let me know that he got them on the website, so go get them if you want them!
I assembled 10 this morning, so the two week lead time will be for the next batch.
Tom
Are these super limited or do you think they'll be available after Christmas? All 'fun' money goes to family gifts for the next few weeks...but after that I'd be interested in one for my US 113N. Thanks Tom!
I made enough parts for about a hundred units. I'll be assembling them ten at a time, so you should be good Dan.
You may want to tell Santa you've been good too!
Santa says I'm good... Bought me one last night!
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 13, 2016, 06:21:33 PM
The upgraded Penn 113HN/US113 Senator Bridge Assemblies are here!
This is Bridge assembly specifically designed for those who want to run drag numbers at or above the recommended maximum settings on your
Baja Special or 113 US Senator family of reels.
Read the discussion here: http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17972.0
[snip]
The bridge comes fully assembled ,drop in ready, with the following components:
Modified Penn Bridge 3-113HN
One piece construction, hardened 416 stainless steel gear sleeve.
Hardened 17-4 stainless steel dogs.
Modified Penn dog springs 14-15KG
Stainless steel dog posts.
Stainless steel washers, screws, and cir-clips.
Delrin washer to replace Penn 4-155 under gear washer.(not pictured)
Because of the assembly time, shipping on these will have a two week lead time.
Price, including shipping is $65.00 each.
Rob will have them on the website in the next few days.
I want to thank everyone for their input, especially Jeff and Alex for the hands on testing!
Tom
Wow! Even chamfered the dogs. My only complaint is that the pricing is wayyy too low. We all owe Tom a big thanks for making such a high quality upgrade available and so affordable.
-J
Incredible work Tom! Making concepts discussed here into reality.
Aloha,
Kyle
Got mine today Tom... SO NICE!
Is there any need to remove the gear sleeve for lubrication?
What do you recommend?
Steve
Quote from: swill88 on November 18, 2016, 03:10:34 AM
Got mine today Tom... SO NICE!
Is there any need to remove the gear sleeve for lubrication?
What do you recommend?
Steve
Thanks Steve!
No need to remove the sleeve, I pre-lubed with Yamaha blue.
Tom
Received my bridge assembly today ... what a great addition to a beautiful reel.
Quote from: jurelometer on November 15, 2016, 02:13:35 AM
...[/quote] .My only complaint is that the pricing is wayyy too low. We all owe Tom a big thanks for making such a high quality upgrade available and so affordable. - J [/quote]
Yes I totally agree.
The level & quality of work done here along with the major improvement in performance to this reel while at the same time being offered at this price is in my mind nothing less than a favor.
Tom asked & I told him honestly what I thought regarding price.
I build & do work on guns for people who go into dark places. Their lives depend on my stuff working. I have a good idea of what quality machined metal parts should look like.
Tom's work here is a Benchmark....Jeff
Jeff,
I'm sure your opinion / expertise carries more weight, but as I've said in a few different threads this new bridge is as precise as anything I've ever seen.
Thanks for your input towards it's creation.
I now own a reel I can use confidently anywhere I might be lucky enough to fish
This bridge has me looking at the Baja in a whole new way... :o
Quote from: Rivverrat on January 15, 2017, 03:08:05 AM
Quote from: jurelometer on November 15, 2016, 02:13:35 AM
... .My only complaint is that the pricing is wayyy too low. We all owe Tom a big thanks for making such a high quality upgrade available and so affordable. - J
Yes I totally agree.
The level & quality of work done here along with the major improvement in performance to this reel while at the same time being offered at this price is in my mind nothing less than a favor.
Tom asked & I told him honestly what I thought regarding price.
I build & do work on guns for people who go into dark places. Their lives depend on my stuff working. I have a good idea of what quality machined metal parts should look like.
Tom's work here is a Benchmark....Jeff
[/quote]
Thanks for the kind works Jeff.
Pricing is a difficult thing....I've always said I'm not doing all this to get rich. Many have tried and failed.
I charge enough to cover costs and put a couple bucks in the Fishing Fund.
Regarding this particular Bridge design, IMHO Penn blew chunks and they doomed an entire product line. I think it's a shame that you drop over $300 on a reel that will blow up and need major repairs if you actually fish it to Penn's stated specs. You all know there are much stronger American made reels at this price point.
That's all I'm going to say about it. ;D
Tom
I haven't been reading this thread with any relevance until now. I just bought a 113us. Guess I'd better order up one of those bridges if I hope to pull in a big halibut.
Hopefully Penn engineers will find a solution and adapt it to all future HN & US reels....or just copy yours and call it good !! ;D ;D
-Ted
It would be nice if Penn bought Tom's design for all the work he put into it...imho
Quote from: mo65 on January 15, 2017, 06:46:25 PM
This bridge has me looking at the Baja in a whole new way... :o
Mo, I would encorage you to buy this bridge while tbey are available. If you dont like braid for what ever reason, this reel has the capacity for all the 60 - 80 lb. mono needed for fishing heavy cover for big cats with the drag performance to go with it. These reels also cast extremely well for their size.
Even if you might not have the funds for a Baja / US113 you still will want to have this bridge on hand in case a good deal on one shows up....Jeff
Tom,
When do you think you will have some more of these bridges. I need 2. Thanks
Unless I missed something they are available on his sight....Jeff
Quote from: Bryan Young on January 16, 2017, 04:02:16 AM
It would be nice if Penn bought Tom's design for all the work he put into it...imho
X2
Quote from: Rivverrat on January 16, 2017, 07:46:37 PM
Unless I missed something they are available on his sight....Jeff
They are sold out at the moment, I'll be building them tonight.
I will need 2 please.
Keith
I would like to get one also when/if they come available again.
Also, if you could post a link on where to purchase them that would be great.
Quote from: SoCalAngler on January 17, 2017, 02:02:54 AM
I would like to get one also when/if they come available again.
Also, if you could post a link on where to purchase them that would be great.
http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=18633.0
Back in stock!
SoCAlAngler,
As steelfish pointed out with the link, our website is www.cortezconversions.com
Tom
Tom,
I bought one of these assemblies. It arrived fast, I checked it out, installed it and am very happy. It's construction is top notch, to others this be no surprise but this is the first item I have purchased from you and I could not be happier.
The installation was a no brainier, even for me ;) and I slapped it right in my 113hn.
Thank you for offering this and in the future I would not hesitate in buying anything you have to offer. Top shelf stuff IMO
Mark
Quote from: SoCalAngler on January 26, 2017, 06:35:11 AM
Tom,
I bought one of these assemblies. It arrived fast, I checked it out, installed it and am very happy. It's construction is top notch, to others this be no surprise but this is the first item I have purchased from you and I could not be happier.
The installation was a no brainier, even for me ;) and I slapped it right in my 113hn.
Thank you for offering this and in the future I would not hesitate in buying anything you have to offer. Top shelf stuff IMO
Mark
Thanks Mark!
Got my bridge today and can't wait to get it installed. Thanks Tom, you turned an average reel into a monster killer.
-Ted
Got my 2 today also. Can't believe they went to St Paul, MN before coming to Dallas.
Quote from: day0ne on January 26, 2017, 10:47:08 PM
Got my 2 today also. Can't believe they went to St Paul, MN before coming to Dallas.
USPS has been doing some odd things lately.... I had a Hawaii bound package leave California and pit stop in Georgia before heading west.
I got a package from Randy who lives 200 mile away that went to N.Carolina first.
Go figure sometimes! ;D
Tom
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on January 27, 2017, 12:15:08 AM
Quote from: day0ne on January 26, 2017, 10:47:08 PM
Got my 2 today also. Can't believe they went to St Paul, MN before coming to Dallas.
USPS has been doing some odd things lately.... I had a Hawaii bound package leave California and pit stop in Georgia before heading west.
I got a package from Randy who lives 200 mile away that went to N.Carolina first.
Go figure sometimes! ;D
Tom
Whaaaaa!?
Hmmmmm?
Maybe our new administration has cut hours, full time staff or something with our venerable postal service?
I know there is a federal hiring freeze in effect, a temporary freeze in federal-matched research grants, and the postal service drastically cut the number of full time employees last year, in anticipation of increased health care costs for full time employees.
On second thought..
I am sure I am off base here.
First post here!
I'd love to pick up one of these stainless bridge assemblies when they become available again? If I'm seeing things correctly it looks like they are not in stock?
I would also like to buy a full frame and side plate kit for the 113h and or 114h. Will you be doing a run of these again?
Thanks for your time,
Trevor Kellar
(907) 660-7466
Trevorkellar@yahoo.com
The bridges will be available by the end of the week, and the 113h plates are next after a wholesale order.
Tom
Back in stock!
Just finished installing this bridge, SS sleeve, and stainless dogs in my Baja. It cleaned up some of the slop and is much easier to manage and service because the dogs/springs are held in place on the bridge. I have yet to fish it but so far I am very impressed with the quality.
Thanks,
Trevor
Thanks Trevor!
Tom Don't Play. ;)
Woot! Finally ordered one ;D
Quote from: coastal_dan on March 20, 2017, 05:12:02 PM
Woot! Finally ordered one ;D
Dan, once you get it you'll wonder why you waited so long. Comparison to your stock setup is like night and day.
Quote from: Maxed Out on March 20, 2017, 08:56:29 PM
Quote from: coastal_dan on March 20, 2017, 05:12:02 PM
Woot! Finally ordered one ;D
Dan, once you get it you'll wonder why you waited so long. Comparison to your stock setup is like night and day.
I think any one with a Baja in use should install one. I bet if the guys on BloodyDecks knew about the upgrade Tom would be sold out ALL the time!
As I carried my Johnnie Walker and this new simply amazing bridge downstairs to the shop I thought to myself..."self, this will take a while...it may challenge you...let's get our game face on". Having not fully disassembled my US113N yet I was ready for this challenge and to get a little more acquainted with this tilefish reel that I truly like. Less than 20 minutes later and having not sipped my JWB yet, I looked down at the reel completely put back together with the new bridge and thought "self, you did something wrong, that was too easy...that was the simplest and fastest modification you have ever done...sigh...you screwed it up". I then tested the drag...if felt amazing at 14-18 lbs...kept tightening...ended up with it cranked down hard and getting 23 lbs...it all still worked, cranked and held together while remaining smooth as butter. (I did end up adding Cal's to the drag washers after cleaning off some blue excess). I think it had a little left in the star, but that was as tight as I was comfortable going.
"Self, holy crap this is cool..."
I'm blown away at the talent on this site...you guys knocked this one out of the park. This reel was awesome, now it is flippin' awesome and a true tankified monster.
Thank you....thank you...and...thank you. Kudos and job well done.
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2949/32801362093_dfb430b7d4.jpg)
[url=https://flic.kr/p/SCARau](https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2896/33232031450_c99b2cca14.jpg)
[url=https://flic.kr/p/SCARcd](https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3736/33232031550_e91643128a.jpg)
(https://flic.kr/p/RYxyaK)
The more I think about it, this design update is revolutionary....the bridge simply slid into the reel...no holding the dogs up, no adjusting springs...just out...add the main and washers etc...then in.
Sorry for posting again, I'm just kind of flabbergasted at how easy you made this.
Dan, I'm in 100% agreement. Those double dogs that come factory are a pain. The Cortez assembly is just so simple to drop in and Call it a day. Mine, after install was very smooth with less play.
I do wish that the Baja/US senators were more popular so that the aftermarket would ramp up. Mainly I want to finish the reel of with some aluminum sideplates with Teds shifter of course!
A man can dream!
Thanks for the kind words guys!
Let's keep dreaming about side plates, maybe something will happen just for our Ohana here??
Drool....
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on March 24, 2017, 01:19:22 PM
Thanks for the kind words guys!
Let's keep dreaming about side plates, maybe something will happen just for our Ohana here??
you already know Im available to test them ::) ::) ::)
Awesome, still if is only a dream
When the Cortez classic jigmaster came out I ordered one of these thinking I would use it in a 113h but I realized that it wouldn't work once I recieved it. Figured it was a good part so I started looking on the big site for a Baja special to put it in (cart before the horse or what?). Found one for $80 with a metal star and handle support bearing, kind of beat up on the outside but it felt ok and seemed like everything was working fine and was considering fishing it as is since I'd never worked on one. Last night I got motivated, clicked on Alan's tutorial (awesome) and got to work. Here's what I found when I opened it up.
Reel went back together perfectly but I'm not getting very good free spool. I couldn't get the little shield off the clicker side bearing cap and I think that's the problem. Any trick to getting those off so I can clean or replace the bearing?
As always many thanks for all the help and hats off to Cortez conversions for a great part
Sheridan
Sheridan,
Unfortunately, you've run into another flaw with these reels. That bearing retainer is pressed into the cup. If you have one of ReelSpeeds pullers you may be able to pull the bearing and shield out together.
PennParts has them in stock if you need to replace it.
Is there anything of this nature for the 6/0 special Senator(114h)?
Quote from: troutman561 on April 29, 2017, 08:15:47 PM
Is there anything of this nature for the 6/0 special Senator(114h)?
Completely different style reel, so no. However there are upgrades for the 114H.
There appears to be a drought on the stock bridges!
These are the Penn 113HN/US113 Senator Bridge Assemblys, NOT the 113/113H bridges
If anyone still has their undamaged stock bridge plates 3-113HN, I'll buy them for $20 a piece. The only critical feature is that the dog posts haven't been bent out of square. They actually deform the bridge plate and are of no use to me.
USPS First Class Mail works fine:
Tom Hryniuk
105 Birch Wood Ct.
Los Gatos, Ca.
95032
Thanks everyone!
Tom
I have one stock bridge on really good shape on my 2nd Baja Special, posts are not bent at all (Im actually waiting for some funds to get one of your assemblies).
let me take it out from the reel and send you some pics, if you approve it after checking the pics, I will send it out your way N/C.
Im not using the spare Baja Special at all, I can easily keep it incomplete until getting one of your Bridge assemblies in few more weeks, for me once I have the Cortez Bridge assembly the stock Bridge will be useless.
give me 2-3 days for send you the pics
I have one for you also. I think I had actually sent a note with my previous purchase request, asking if you could use the old bridge. That was quite awhile ago now.
I still need another Cortez Baja bridge too.
Thanks Guys!
I ordered 2 more for customers. They are catching on to this improvement.
Tom, I have a brand new bridge to send you and I see you say USPS first class is fine but, will the bridge go into a envelope or does it need a box? I only ask because I went onto the USPS website and it states.
Non-Machineable Envelopes
Unusually shaped mail, like square or vertical envelopes, lumpy envelopes, rigid envelopes, and mail with clasps, string, buttons, must be hand-cancelled. They are charged a non-machineable surcharge even if they weigh less than 1 oz.
Larger Envelopes
If a mailpiece exceeds the maximum length or height or thickness, it will be charged at the next higher price or mailpiece category.
Large Envelopes (flats) that exceed maximum dimensions, are rigid, non-rectangular, or not uniformly thick are rigid, are charged parcel prices.
As you can see the wording is a little vague.
I will send it out to you but I don't want to package it first then find out there are additional charges and or repackaging needed. As you know the bridge has a fixed post supporting the sleeve which makes it a awkward shape for mailing. So, if you have received one already how was it packaged?
Quote from: SoCalAngler on July 15, 2017, 05:48:28 AM
Tom, I have a brand new bridge to send you and I see you say USPS first class is fine but, will the bridge go into a envelope or does it need a box? I only ask because I went onto the USPS website and it states.
Non-Machineable Envelopes
Unusually shaped mail, like square or vertical envelopes, lumpy envelopes, rigid envelopes, and mail with clasps, string, buttons, must be hand-cancelled. They are charged a non-machineable surcharge even if they weigh less than 1 oz.
Larger Envelopes
Thank you!
A box will work, that's how I send most of my stuff.
Tom
If a mailpiece exceeds the maximum length or height or thickness, it will be charged at the next higher price or mailpiece category.
Large Envelopes (flats) that exceed maximum dimensions, are rigid, non-rectangular, or not uniformly thick are rigid, are charged parcel prices.
As you can see the wording is a little vague.
I will send it out to you but I don't want to package it first then find out there are additional charges and or repackaging needed. As you know the bridge has a fixed post supporting the sleeve which makes it a awkward shape for mailing. So, if you have received one already how was it packaged?
I'd like to get two of these bridge assemblies for my Baja Specials. I'd be happy to send you back the stock bridges when I swap them out. I've never fished them too hard. Is there a drag upgrade too, or are people using the stock drags?
I'm using the stock drags, just greased with Cal's tan grease. 20+ lbs is plenty for this reel and the fisherman 😜
Quote from: scrinch on July 15, 2017, 09:11:18 PM
I'd like to get two of these bridge assemblies for my Baja Specials. I'd be happy to send you back the stock bridges when I swap them out. I've never fished them too hard. Is there a drag upgrade too, or are people using the stock drags?
Actually,
If you want to send your bridges, I will inspect and rebuild them and knock $20 off the cost.
I am out of these bridge plates so any further production will be from recycled bridges I can buy.
Tom
Ill send you my old ones.
Enjoy
Tom, this is all you need correct? No springs, dogs or sleeve.
Quote from: steelfish on July 12, 2017, 06:40:04 PM
I have one stock bridge on really good shape on my 2nd Baja Special, posts are not bent at all
Tom,
I left mine on the local parcel company today, it will be on the USPS office (USA) tomorrow or Monday at the most and then on your way, let me know when you get it.
I decided to pull the original bridge off my second Baja for Tom instead of sending just the one. So I grabbed both thinking I had to tear them down to figure out which one had already been done.
As soon as I pulled the handle caps it became obvious! I forgot Tom had made the sleeve longer, stronger and out of stainless. Pretty sure which I have to tear apart now, lol. See the pic.
Quote from: Rancanfish on July 21, 2017, 05:18:44 PM
Tom, this is all you need correct? No springs, dogs or sleeve.
Yep! ;D
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on July 24, 2017, 08:01:02 PM
Quote from: Rancanfish on July 21, 2017, 05:18:44 PM
Tom, this is all you need correct? No springs, dogs or sleeve.
Yep! ;D
You're so wordy. :D Two sent, delivery tomorrow (Wed.), with a note to bill me for one of the Cortez/Baja terminator fish killer bridge, with a warranty guaranteeing fish in the boat. I'm easy.
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on July 18, 2017, 02:07:48 PM
Quote from: scrinch on July 15, 2017, 09:11:18 PM
I'd like to get two of these bridge assemblies for my Baja Specials. I'd be happy to send you back the stock bridges when I swap them out. I've never fished them too hard.
Actually,
If you want to send your bridges, I will inspect and rebuild them and knock $20 off the cost.
I am out of these bridge plates so any further production will be from recycled bridges I can buy.
Tom
Great. I'll get them in the mail this weekend.
I have these back in stock on the website.
Thanks all for your patience!
Tom
Are we still sending old one's in?
Are these still available?
From Where and how much.
I would like to order 2 of them.
Thanks...
Frank
https://www.cortezconversions.com/copy-of-custom-parts
or
https://www.cortezconversions.com/product-page/penn-113hn-us113-senator-bridge-assembly
Thank you!!! ;D
These are currently out of stock, sorry!
Probably 4-6 weeks before I can get to them again.
Tom
ok :-\
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on March 30, 2018, 05:55:02 PM
These are currently out of stock, sorry!
Probably 4-6 weeks before I can get to them again.
Tom
Will this bridge upgrade be available soon?
I will buy one. I have an HN in pieces for 4 years because it cost me a nice yellowfin but if I can fix the weak azz dogs permanently I will.
I just found this thread or I would have asked a while ago, thanks.
Paul
I also need one and can send my bridge to you if need be I sent a message on your site as well. Thanks Justin
I have all the components in stock. I'll try and get some assembled this week.
Tom
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on May 29, 2018, 01:30:26 PM
I have all the components in stock. I'll try and get some assembled this week.
Tom
That is good news, thanks.
I have six back in stock.
Mystic has a limit of one per order, so I can't stock any more.
If you want one of these bridges, you will have to order it and have it shipped to me while they have stock.
I discount $20 if you provide a new bridge or a used one if it passes inspection.
Thanks,
Tom
These are back in stock, get them while they last!
My last two bridges are available on the website. After this, they won't be available until after the new year.
Tom
I don't own one of these reels, but I am glad that there is a demand for your product.
The Man
Quote from: Ron Jones on September 30, 2018, 04:25:06 AM
I don't own one of these reels, but I am glad that there is a demand for your product.
The Man
The quality of Tom's work makes me want to buy one of these reels, and this upgrade, to just be able to first hand appreciate the engineering that has gone into this.
Quote from: Ron Jones on September 30, 2018, 04:25:06 AM
I don't own one of these reels, but I am glad that there is a demand for your product.
The Man
Ron,
Want to try it out? I have one. We can mount it to the seeker for the SOA Trip.
I have one also. Penn should have done this a long time ago. Toms modifed bridge is much stronger than the stock one. The stainless sleeve modification is just one piece instead of two.
Mike
Quote from: Bryan Young on September 30, 2018, 03:54:39 PM
Quote from: Ron Jones on September 30, 2018, 04:25:06 AM
I don't own one of these reels, but I am glad that there is a demand for your product.
The Man
Ron,
Want to try it out? I have one. We can mount it to the seeker for the SOA Trip.
Um, YES!:)
The Man
Quote from: Ron Jones on September 30, 2018, 04:31:27 PM
Quote from: Bryan Young on September 30, 2018, 03:54:39 PM
Quote from: Ron Jones on September 30, 2018, 04:25:06 AM
I don't own one of these reels, but I am glad that there is a demand for your product.
The Man
Ron,
Want to try it out? I have one. We can mount it to the seeker for the SOA Trip.
Um, YES!:)
The Man
My 113hn with Tom's bridge modification was my go-to reel at Cedros, Ron. I caught most of my yellowtail on it. It's only single speed and a little heavier than newer reels, but it's strong and smooth as silk!
I saw it, in fact I think I passed it to you a coupe times. The YTS is my ALL TIME fvorite reel. Maybe it's time I give Penns version a shot. I was able to cast my YTS really nice with Bryan's jig stick, I bet I can make the Baja scream.
Ron
Is there ETA on the next batch?
Ouch. Ok. Can I get in line pretty please? ;D
Yeah, sorry about the wait. I put it on the build list, but there are a lot of things on that list!
I am humbled that there are about 300 of those bridges out there and I've only heard from one customer that routinely hooks big sharks, who says he does get a little binding on the bridge shaft after long runs at full drag.
I don't keep waiting lists or take money upfront. I usually spend the money and lose the list, too much of a hassle.
Tom
Quote from: scrinch on October 01, 2018, 04:14:00 AM
..... smooth as silk!
I've been suprised more people dont mention or notice this about the Baja / US113.
Also unlike other reels reels from a well known maker they just keep getting smoother the more they are used. With what the US113 cost new, even adding the cost of Tom's anti reverse there is no other reel made that will compete with it for dollars spent. Certainly no star drag. The lever drags with this level of performance most likely wont cast as well & will be at least $200 more.
The Penn US113 with Tom's anti reverse puts a level of performance in a persons hands that is unobtainable from any where else, in any new reel, for the money spent.
New US113: $199.00 Tom's Anti Reverse $65.00 = $264.00
www.srmo.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=P00922&Category_Code=PENN
Show me a new reel with the same line capacity, Castabilty, drag performance, bomb proof durability for this price or even close. It very simply doesn't exist... Jeff
EDIT: As a side note. The Tern has yet to be a proven platform. It certainly looks like a winner. However with it's lite build & thin gears one has to question it's long term durability when used with lines above 50 lb. Time will tell... Jeff
So great that they brought this back. Is Tom's bridge assembly the only upgrades this reel needs?
Is there a drag upgrade for it? I figure you can put a better knob/grip on it too.
I fished two of these in Mexico. Neither of them on big fish, but I was happy to know that all the strength was there. As far as smoothness, it was like silk and this reel is on my list. Unfortunately, its a long list.
The Man
Daron, it's the only upgrade readily available. They really dont need drag upgrades. I'm going to work on a longer handle this winter. A bigger knob of your choosing is always a good thing when using line 50 & with a reel having one gear... Jeff
Just checking in to see if these are coming in the next few months?
Thanks
Quote from: badfish71 on January 08, 2019, 04:09:30 PM
Just checking in to see if these are coming in the next few months?
Thanks
Yep, still on the build list.
I'd like one when you build!! Mike Grosman. 👍👍👍
Thanks. I'll check back with you in a couple of months. I'm hoping to have it at least by the summer.
Count me in for one of these! ;D
Count me in for one.
Just checking in to we if there is any movement on this item.
They are on the build list, but no ETA.
Tom
Ok thanks for the update. I'll check back next
Month
Checking in
Maybe send in your old bridge and have Tom rebuild them...if he has parts.
Hi Tom,
Just checking to see if there was an update on the ETA for these. Looking at 3 for myself,
thanks,
Not too much longer, I have one or two things ahead of these parts.
Checking in.
Back in stock! I now have all the puzzle pieces!!
I build these 10 at a time because of the time involved in assembly. So please have patience with me....
Before sending your old bridges for rework, please send a good pic of the dog posts. If they are bent and have mangled the plate, I can't fix them. I also can't guarantee that you will get your exact bridge back. I do fully inspect each bridge, so rest assured that you will get a good assembly.
Shipping a bridge in as a core is not necessary. You can purchase a complete bridge straight from the website.
Also please note Cortez Conversions new address is:
105 Birch Wood Ct.
Los Gatos, Ca.
95032
Thanks,
Tom
Went to your website and bought one!! Thank you Tom.
Mike g
Thanks Mike!
I`m in for 2 when they are available again Tom!
Hi Tom. This thread is what introduced me to your website. As we discussed over email, I'll take 5 assemblies to replace on my fleet of US senators. One reel had a dog failure right out of the box on a ~100lb bluefin. But the other four stock assemblies are brand new. Are the stock parts useful to you?
Quote from: AustinBW on November 20, 2019, 09:25:48 PM
Hi Tom. This thread is what introduced me to your website. As we discussed over email, I'll take 5 assemblies to replace on my fleet of US senators. One reel had a dog failure right out of the box on a ~100lb bluefin. But the other four stock assemblies are brand new. Are the stock parts useful to you?
Hello Austin,
Yes, the stock parts may be useful to me, and most importantly, they are worth $20 each in credit. I'll shoot you a PM.
Thanks,
Tom
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 20, 2019, 11:19:12 PM
Quote from: AustinBW on November 20, 2019, 09:25:48 PM
Hi Tom. This thread is what introduced me to your website. As we discussed over email, I'll take 5 assemblies to replace on my fleet of US senators. One reel had a dog failure right out of the box on a ~100lb bluefin. But the other four stock assemblies are brand new. Are the stock parts useful to you?
Hello Austin,
Yes, the stock parts may be useful to me, and most importantly, they are worth $20 each in credit. I'll shoot you a PM.
Thanks,
Tom
I am interested too, I have a bridge for my baja special that I want to replace.
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 20, 2019, 11:19:12 PM
Quote from: AustinBW on November 20, 2019, 09:25:48 PM
Hi Tom. This thread is what introduced me to your website. As we discussed over email, I'll take 5 assemblies to replace on my fleet of US senators. One reel had a dog failure right out of the box on a ~100lb bluefin. But the other four stock assemblies are brand new. Are the stock parts useful to you?
Hello Austin,
Yes, the stock parts may be useful to me, and most importantly, they are worth $20 each in credit. I'll shoot you a PM.
Thanks,
Tom
Awesome!
Back in stock!
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 27, 2019, 01:38:21 AM
Back in stock!
I got around to installing these on 3 of my 5 senators. Let me tell you. What a difference when I compare them side by side to a stock assembly. Turns a good reel into a great reel. Will hopefully get to the last two this weekend.
Yup ! This is one of the best upgrades for a specific reel that I am aware of... Jeff
Got my pair on Christmas Eve..... Thank Tom.
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 13, 2016, 06:21:33 PM
The upgraded Penn 113HN/US113 Senator Bridge Assemblies are here!
This is Bridge assembly specifically designed for those who want to run drag numbers at or above the recommended maximum settings on your
Baja Special or 113 US Senator family of reels.
Read the discussion here: http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17972.0
Here it is:
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0840_zpspupyr1yy.jpg)
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0841_zpskzipne79.jpg)
Because of the assembly time, shipping on these will have a two week lead time.
Price, including shipping is $65.00 each.
Tom
Hello Tom,
Is that including shipping 65.00 also for Hawaii orders?
Quote from: franky on April 20, 2020, 10:08:58 PM
Quote from: Cortez_Conversions on November 13, 2016, 06:21:33 PM
The upgraded Penn 113HN/US113 Senator Bridge Assemblies are here!
This is Bridge assembly specifically designed for those who want to run drag numbers at or above the recommended maximum settings on your
Baja Special or 113 US Senator family of reels.
Read the discussion here: http://alantani.com/index.php?topic=17972.0
Here it is:
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0840_zpspupyr1yy.jpg)
(http://i1301.photobucket.com/albums/ag109/Cortez_Conversions/thumbnail_IMG_0841_zpskzipne79.jpg)
Because of the assembly time, shipping on these will have a two week lead time.
Price, including shipping is $65.00 each.
Tom
Hello Tom,
Is that including shipping 65.00 also for Hawaii orders?
Hello Franky,
Sad to say, I now have to charge shipping. That original post was from 2016.
Shipping on the website is a flat $5.00 fee for orders under $150. Orders over $150 still ship free.
I don't participate on alantani.com very much anymore, so please use the contact page on my website cortezconversions.com or my email: tomhryniuk@cortezconversions.com
Tom
Back it stock!
https://www.cortezconversions.com/product-page/penn-113hn-us113-senator-bridge-assembly
;D ;D I almost bought a beater Baja just so I could get another bridge.
LOL.. I'm looking for beater because I did buy a second bridge ;D
rockies
I did already bought a beater Baja and a 2nd bridge
Quote from: steelfish on January 09, 2021, 10:18:43 AM
rockies
I did already bought a beater Baja and a 2nd bridge
Nice... I'll still looking, CV19 still keeping prices high on used gear. Good when your a seller, but bad when you want to buy.
I bought two Baja's and put Tom's upgrade in them. I have no use for the darn things but I love fine machinery, lol.
Quote from: steelfish on January 09, 2021, 10:18:43 AM
rockies
I did already bought a beater Baja and a 2nd bridge
well, no longer have the 2nd Baja special ( I had it since 2016), my friend just lost his Baja Special 3 weeks ago, he dropped it to the bottom of the sea at 600ft deep, he's one of my regular fishing partners and he loved his reel, he went fishing with some of his friends and on his return he called me to tell me he was really sad and upset because he dropped it when taking another rod from the rod holder on the boat and the handle of the Baja Special got trapped with the handle of the reel on the rod he got, both rods got lifted from the rod holders (attached to the side of the boat) but only one rod was safe on the hand of my friend, the other rod with the Baja Special reel then slipped down just when he tried to got it and on his own words "he saw on slow motion" how the rod and reel were disappearing on the water.
I sold him my Backup Baja Special already upgraded just above the price of the Bridge assembly.
now I will have my eyes open for another one and another Bridge assembly from Tom, I used to have the Bridge assembly at my desk to play with it and hear the sound of a great fine machinery, it was relaxing !!
Back in stock!
I hope you told the guys on BD too.
Tom, the cortez site says these are out of stock. Can we order them from you directly?
These bridges are back in stock!
I just installed mine, what a great addition to the reel!
Hello. Any ETA on when they will be in stock?
I've got a bunch sitting on the bench that need to be assembled. They should be ready next week.
Thanks!
Back in stock! :fish
This is the only place to get the best drop in custom parts for your reels.
Keith
You might get a clamp while you're at it. Much better than the stock one and nice to hook a jig to
I know I am late to the party on these, but I ripped the post off the bridge for one of my dogs and chewed the spring through the racthet from the other one cranking in a 206 lb halibut. Are these going to be available again any time? I have 2 bajas that I love to use on big halibut in alaska, so I would really like this upgrade on both.
(Picture or it didn't happen.)
nice hali. that's a pig for sure
Yes, they will be available again in a couple weeks. I'm swamped, as usual, and I'm heading to Cedros all next week. So probably the first or second week of August.
Available now :) super fast shipping to Florida. Faster than I get stuff from in state suppliers:)
Very nice looking part! Thanks.
Now if there were two speed side plates, lol......
Bridges are back in stock. Get them while they last!