I just got in and this reel was sitting by the front stoop
(https://i.imgur.com/c5t6MnJ.jpg)
Here is the manual, made possible by cmdrzog, thanks again Bob
(https://i.imgur.com/wfOdKo3.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/H0goGhC.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RVuJuOJ.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/NuirXNm.png)
the 300 is huge, compared to the 200
(https://i.imgur.com/S3Zz1ab.jpg)
overall not in a bad shape
(https://i.imgur.com/iIwlhY5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tgSUoTe.jpg)
size comparison with the 200
(https://i.imgur.com/FxnV7mf.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6vGtWOk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/AnibuBG.jpg)
the clicker is different from the 200 and so is the spool.
This one appears to be milled from one piece, no ss bushing in the middle. Check out the date 1-1-68, cool...
(https://i.imgur.com/94fJrRb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WF71vUM.jpg)
This spool would be a good candidate for the 5-6 washers upgrade, as I did on the 700.
The 700 also had one washer
(https://i.imgur.com/xfudraJ.jpg)
the weight of the 300 is just under 2lbs
(https://i.imgur.com/6Xr8Rlw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UF6Lhgv.jpg)
1/2 lb heavier than the 700, but it isn't fair. Since the spool is very close to the 9500ss, I'll compare it with the 9500ss
(https://i.imgur.com/2Aa187e.jpg)
the 9500ss is 1/2lb heavier.
This 300 is different from the 200, so, since I'm not too familiar with it, I will need to clean it up a bit before attempting to take it apart
(https://i.imgur.com/UPjcrnr.jpg)
lots of greese in these reels and its really thick
(https://i.imgur.com/iEVnfCq.jpg)
WD-40 didn't cut it, this one needed the Paslode cleaner that I like so much
(https://i.imgur.com/DcWeFPN.jpg)
that stuff never lets me down
(https://i.imgur.com/s0F5K06.jpg)
I can now proceed with the taking apart.
Ok, I decided to pull a couple of additional parts from rthis tank
These parts are really covered with thick grease, I soak them in Simple Green, but I only use a cup full, I do not want to contaminate the 5 gallon bucket
(https://i.imgur.com/tWRYMij.jpg)
A little squirt with paslode and cleaned with a rag
(https://i.imgur.com/6hEODMX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RqftvzL.jpg)
the bail wire comes out with very little effort, as the 200 did
(https://i.imgur.com/8Ee588p.jpg)
this ss line roller also has the brass insert
(https://i.imgur.com/CUiVwZE.jpg)
a 9/32 will fit nice and snug on the spool shaft nut
(https://i.imgur.com/pLhrVfF.jpg)
and it pulled right out
(https://i.imgur.com/m1PbReb.jpg)
the spool shaft is really beefy on this reel
(https://i.imgur.com/R7TS3ac.jpg)
I was surprised to see 3 small screws holding this big rotor, but it is working just fine
(https://i.imgur.com/VrBmnEq.jpg)
there is some type of fiber washer at the base of the rotor, I think its there as a gasket
(https://i.imgur.com/S0qxPAl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QjDKuSp.jpg)
the pinion wasn't coming out easely, so I reinstalled one of the screws and gently pried it off with a flathead screwdriver
(https://i.imgur.com/VboI7DL.jpg)
and out it came
(https://i.imgur.com/YzZXyqH.jpg)
the 2 screws holding the bearing and the 3 holding the rotor are of the same size, so no worries if you get them mixed up
(https://i.imgur.com/vr1RH55.jpg)
here is an idea on how large that bearing is, compared to a quarter
(https://i.imgur.com/y2Dcj63.jpg)
now I'm trying to figure out how to remove that bearing
(https://i.imgur.com/5ZD4ZnW.jpg)
did anyone ever get it out? this one doesn't need to come, after cleaning it it's spinning like a top, but I would still like to find out how it comes out.
As mentioned earlier, this reel is built tough, I'm not sure why they chose to install just one drag washer.
I decided to upgrade the drag washers by adding 2 additional washers. I have no doubts if it could handle it, it should also feel much smoother.
I was going to drill the hole to accept the 6-60 washers, but realized it went a little off-center at the very beginning.
the hole needs to be spot on or it won't work.
I do not have a lathe or milling machine, this was done with a cheap drill press and hand tools.
Since the spool comes with a rim on top, I used it to guide my bit, but the 2 holes for the ears need to be drilled first.
If you're in the same situation and do have a drill press, it still isn't easy, but if you take your time it can be done.
I've already done the measurements, so there is no need for you to waste time on it or take a chance.
For me, the best option to drill the hole is by using a good set of forstner bits, here I used a 3/4" bit and the slots for the ears I used a 1/8" bit.
Take your time and measure often as you get close, you don't want to go deeper than 7mm from the top lip on the spool.
On this one I went 8mm and noticed the holes for the ears almost poked through.
(https://i.imgur.com/OBR7vex.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TCn7Udt.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZnoAfTg.jpg)
The hole came out almost perfect, there are some marks on the top rim from drilling the slots, but not bad
(https://i.imgur.com/1Jlmevq.jpg)
The spool shaft will also need to be modified, not a big deal there. Make sure you're approximately 1mm lower than the retaining spring for the washers, while the spool is on the shaft
(https://i.imgur.com/RQdqDyd.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1GHxKd6.jpg)
When I get another chance, I will need to cut some custom keyed and eared washers for this one. I will probably use brass, ss would be too much work.
The 6-60 carbon fiber washers would do just fine, but I might cut some a little larger as while I'm at it.
Ok, i finally made some washers for this reel, but first I wanted to replace the 3 screws that hold the rotor, I'm not crazy about those, one actually snapped on me, they're very soft.
(https://i.imgur.com/jrO007U.jpg)
if anyone wanted to do the same, the type of ss screws is on the box. These only come in 3/8 and are 5-40 in size, you would need to cut them down to size and re tap the 3 holes to 5-40
(https://i.imgur.com/tJ80kHh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kf7BdId.jpg)
and the reassemble of the reel
(https://i.imgur.com/RtihAyM.jpg)
didn't bother with the removal of the bail spring, it is very similar to the Crack 200, I already did that one
(https://i.imgur.com/bezRSXu.jpg)
and the 3 new ss screws holding the rotor...Ifeel better now
(https://i.imgur.com/CDxBj91.jpg)
spool shaft goes back in
(https://i.imgur.com/Sjh0lBE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/llPmouZ.jpg)
side plate and gear go back as well
(https://i.imgur.com/HeSjKVS.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/afwtlcb.jpg)
and the new drag stack, converted from one washer to 3
(https://i.imgur.com/Cwff7ek.jpg)
I found some Newell keyed washers, all I needed to do was to enlarge them a bit
(https://i.imgur.com/QWWwhUL.jpg)
eared washers made from a eared washer from a Jigmaster
(https://i.imgur.com/QWuKBIB.jpg)
and a perfect fit
(https://i.imgur.com/Dm5JCfv.jpg)
keyed washer on top along with spring and this one is done.
(https://i.imgur.com/5w3lins.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/NIPziIk.jpg)
I hope it is of some interest for those that really like these reels, I will take it out and test it, i'm thinking it will be much smoother and powerful than it was.
Best,
Sal
The oil port on the main gear shaft would sure come in handy! A lot of the Euro reels had that aspect. So did a few of the Japanese copies.
That's a beast, Sal.
A great reel for bait fishing, way heavy for plugging. Most popular mod was replacing the bail w/ a manual p/u from a mitchell 306 or 302 (forget which). Biggest problem was the head support bearing freezing up. Still have 4 or 5 stashed away somewhere.
Quote from: cmdrzog on November 14, 2017, 10:18:13 AM
A great reel for bait fishing, way heavy for plugging. Most popular mod was replacing the bail w/ a manual p/u from a mitchell 306 or 302 (forget which). Biggest problem was the head support bearing freezing up. Still have 4 or 5 stashed away somewhere.
First time I've noticed your name, did you just join us?...
Anyway, thank you for the information and welcome aboard.
I really like these reels, any information I could get is very much appreciated.
Quote from: thorhammer on November 14, 2017, 12:56:39 AM
That’s a beast, Sal.
You are correct John, its a monster of a reel. I might try installing a 5 washer stack in this one, it could definitely handle it...we'll see.
Thanks guys.
Sal
"Crack" is an interesting name. In software, it means a modified version of a licensed program that can be installed without the license. In Ireland, it means "a fun time." In the US, the word is notoriously associated with illegal drugs. I believe this reel originates in France, and wonder how it got its name... ::)
Hello Sal been around a while don't have much to say usually. Sent 4 pdfs of original Crack 300 manual to your email as could not figure out how to attach them here. Check out the locking the flyer feature.
Here is a couple of pictures
Just as an FYI, all the Crack reels you see out there aren't necessarily older vintage models. Societe Crack et Ru SARL were still making 100, 200. 200S, 300, 300S & 300SPU reels through the 2000s. Luxor owners (families) split in 1967 and the Crack trademark came to be. There were multiple changes to the faces and Crack partners over the years including, '78, '79, '89, '97 & '99. RU actually manufactured the '80s Crack 100s.
Quote from: cmdrzog on November 14, 2017, 10:18:13 AM
A great reel for bait fishing, way heavy for plugging. Most popular mod was replacing the bail w/ a manual p/u from a mitchell 306 or 302 (forget which). Biggest problem was the head support bearing freezing up. Still have 4 or 5 stashed away somewhere.
If you want to send those 4-5 Crack Heads out to enjoy some daylight let me know ;D.
I did receive the manual, but as you I'm not able to download it here, maybe my daughter could help when she gets a chance.
Thank you for sending those Bob and yes I'll take the 100 1nd 200 as well.
Quote from: handi2 on November 14, 2017, 04:51:37 PM
Here is a couple of pictures
Is that one yours Keith? Nice clean job!
Quote from: Midway Tommy on November 14, 2017, 05:53:07 PM
Just as an FYI, all the Crack reels you see out there aren't necessarily older vintage models. Societe Crack et Ru SARL were still making 100, 200. 200S, 300, 300S & 300SPU reels through the 2000s. Luxor owners (families) split in 1967 and the Crack trademark came to be. There were multiple changes to the faces and Crack partners over the years including, '78, '79, '89, '97 & '99. RU actually manufactured the '80s Crack 100s.
Good information Tom, Thanks!
Thanks again everyoone.
Sal
Yes Sal its one of mine I found in the box of older reels ive had for years. The Paslode cleaner is a big hit for me too.
I do just as many, maybe more, spinning reels as I do conventional reels. With Shimano spinning reels there is no reason to take all the parts out of the body. The worm gear and its parts. I use the Paslode cleaner to clean them out. It's plastic safe. I put the pinion gear back into the reel body, no bearing, spray Paslode in while I turn the pinion gear with my fingers. It gets it super clean. I then spray it full of CorrosionX oil and turn the pinion gear again getting oil everywhere.
It is then blown out with compressed air and ready to grease again.
Very nice Keith.
From what I'm seeing, these reels were designed to last a few lifetimes.
Sal
Wow, that reel ought to be registered as a dangerous weapon (and not just to fish); if you drop it on a body part, something's gonna break and it probably won't be the reel.
If it doesn't violate any rules to do so, getting the Crack manual on the site somewhere might be worthwhile.
Really enjoying the close-up look on this baby.
Frank
Quote from: happyhooker on November 15, 2017, 03:25:19 AM
If it doesn't violate any rules to do so, getting the Crack manual on the site somewhere might be worthwhile.
Frank or Sal, I could make that happen. Just PM me and I'll get crackin' 8)
Did someone crack a joke?
Pipe down--plumbers don't lurk, they just stand around and sweat* a lot.
Frank
*solder
Sal, if you got a PDF of that manual, maybe you could PM it to Decker & let him post it (?)
Frank
This one is done, for those interested, I kept adding pics so, you will need to start from the very top.
Enjoy it!
Sal
Quote
This one is done, for those interested, I kept adding pics so, you will need to start from the very top.
Thanks for the additional pics & the manual copy. So interesting.
Frank
My dad (I still have it) fished 30 years using the "LUXOR" mer et saumon (sea & salmon) which is the same as the crack 300 , on a 28" rod half-bamboo half fiberglass (yes 7 meters ;D )
I have a small one too for fishing trout ,I will post some photos ,it's practically new ....
Quote from: Captain64-200 on December 03, 2017, 08:10:50 PM
My dad (I still have it) fished 30 years using the "LUXOR" mer et saumon (sea & salmon) which is the same as the crack 300 , on a 28" rod half-bamboo half fiberglass (yes 7 meters ;D )
I have a small one too for fishing trout ,I will post some photos ,it's practically new ....
Cool Fred! post the pics, I would love to see them.
Best,
Sal
You people crack me up! Greatthread.
You're a brave sold to go after the spool with a forstner bit Sal. It turned out great though.
Welcome Fred. I want to see the rod sometime.
-steve
Quote from: Alto Mare on December 03, 2017, 10:12:39 PM
Quote from: Captain64-200 on December 03, 2017, 08:10:50 PM
My dad (I still have it) fished 30 years using the "LUXOR" mer et saumon (sea & salmon) which is the same as the crack 300 , on a 28" rod half-bamboo half fiberglass (yes 7 meters ;D )
I have a small one too for fishing trout ,I will post some photos ,it's practically new ....
Cool Fred! post the pics, I would love to see them.
Best,
Sal
Ok Sal i will .
Quote from: oc1 on December 04, 2017, 05:28:08 AM
You're a brave sold to go after the spool with a forstner bit Sal. It turned out great though.
Welcome Fred. I want to see the rod sometime.
-steve
the rod is long gone to thrash ,but I will find some shots on the beach featuring my father ... and those looooong rods .
Better soon than forget --> Here's some pictures ,weight of the big one is 762 grams that's 1.67 lbs
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09413.jpg)
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09412.jpg)
Small green LUXOR is 371 grams ( 13 oz)
the small got a interesting extractible spool system ( Keeps intact drag settings )
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09410.jpg)
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09310.jpg)
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09311.jpg)
(https://i62.servimg.com/u/f62/11/93/47/71/dsc09411.jpg)
Cool little reel Fred, along with some great pics. Thanks for posting!...interesting little guy.
Best,
Sal
Small green LUXOR is 371 grams ( 13 oz)
the small got a interesting extractible spool system ( Keeps intact drag settings )
If I'm not mistaken, wasn't that feature unique to the "Supreme" line?
Quote from: Midway Tommy on December 04, 2017, 06:18:36 PM
Small green LUXOR is 371 grams ( 13 oz)
the small got a interesting extractible spool system ( Keeps intact drag settings )
If I'm not mistaken, wasn't that feature unique to the "Supreme" line?
Yes ,I suppose ...I don't have any other from this line/period . N°2 R & N°2 L were two variations of gear ratio for this model "R" for rapide (high speed) an d "L" for lent (slow )
Great reels. I only have two in my collection. A new in the box Number 3 "B" model and a late used but completely original Crack 300 (same size as the No. 3), many were modified to MPU by cutting the bail off. These reels were the kings of the surf casters in the 1950's to late 1960's. None better until Penn came along.
Rumor says these are the reels that the modern Van Stall's are modeled after.
Mike, you post these a while back, but I just happen to notice them.
Beautiful reels and thanks for the information. It does resemble the Van Stall, I could see it.
Thanks Mike!
Sal
These reels are my favorite. I have 10 of the large ones alone. All different releases. Van staal was modeled after them. It was the van staal if it's day here in the north east. Along with the PENN 706. Guys would drill them for drainage. That's where customizing and the slots and holes on the van staal came from. Years of the old timers just making their reels perform better on the surf. My profile pic is one I customized. You can pull a car with them. I put a penn 706 line roller on them. Also the penn 704 pum kit fits. Lots of stuff you can do. I love that drag up grade. I've just swapped in ht100. But making it a 5washer stack is genius.
Quote from: Reels_penn4life on August 14, 2019, 02:42:36 PM
Van staal was modeled after them. It was the van staal if it's day here in the north east. Along with the PENN 706. Guys would drill them for drainage. That's where customizing and the slots and holes on the van staal came from. Years of the old timers just making their reels perform better on the surf.
and
Quote from: Penn Chronology on December 21, 2017, 09:01:33 PMRumor says these are the reels that the modern Van Stall's are modeled after.
Mike and Doug, that's an interesting bit of reel trivia about the Van Staal connection. Thank you gentlemen.
-steve
I forgot I posted this. I always loved the Crack 300. When I was a kid I remember reading about them in the fishing reports. They were the Van Staal of the 1950's and 60's. all the surf casting swimmers at Montauk Point used them exclusively in the late 50's. Most definitely a Bullet Proof gearbox.
This is more of a collectible today but some of the crew on the Vintage Penn Reels, Facebook page still fish with them. Just cannot kill them.
I was surprised to learn that these reels were made from 1940 to 1999. The Crack 300 was made from 1968 to 1979. After that the company was sold and kept changing hands until 1999 when the last Crack's were made. There were five versions of the Luxor models made between 1940 and 1968, Very interesting history.
Quote from: Penn Chronology on August 18, 2019, 02:28:50 AM
I forgot I posted this. I always loved the Crack 300. When I was a kid I remember reading about them in the fishing reports. They were the Van Staal of the 1950's and 60's. all the surf casting swimmers at Montauk Point used them exclusively in the late 50's. Most definitely a Bullet Proof gearbox.
This is more of a collectible today but some of the crew on the Vintage Penn Reels, Facebook page still fish with them. Just cannot kill them.
I was surprised to learn that these reels were made from 1940 to 1999. The Crack 300 was made from 1968 to 1979. After that the company was sold and kept changing hands until 1999 when the last Crack's were made. There were five versions of the Luxor models made between 1940 and 1968, Very interesting history.
Mike, did the Spinfishers have anything to do with the decline of the Crack.... or did they both decline together, or were they both popular simultaneously?
-steve
QuoteMike, did the Spinfishers have anything to do with the decline of the Crack.... or did they both decline together, or were they both popular simultaneously?
-steve
The answer to your question is, Yes and No. The Luxor spinning reels pre-date Penn Spinning reels by 25 years, so Luxor was around and very successful before Penn spinning reels and also during the time of Penn spinning reels. I feel Luxor / Crack reels were a higher end reels than Penn, their market share was very different. The Luxor reels did not decline because of quality. In my opinion what ended Luxor was old age and simple obsolescence. The original company stopped producing them and sold the brand rights and parts to another company in 1978, from that point on, production was dependent on a parts warehouse that changed hands every time Luxor / Crack did. Over the years of 1978 to 1999 the right to the Luxor / Crack Models 100. 200 & 300 changed hands at least three times and each company that bought the Crack brand and parts handled the selling of their reels and parts in different ways. In the final years of Luxor / Crack reels, the last two companies that owned them even tried to start manufacturing parts and reels again but their days were over. They became obsolete.
According to many people, the Luxor / Crack Models 100, 200 & 300 line of reels was made longer than any other spinning reel single model (over 60 years). During that time, very little change was made to the original design.
Thank you Mike for the great information on these and also to you Steve for helping flushing it out with your questions :).
According to many people, the Luxor / Crack Models 100, 200 & 300 line of reels was made longer than any other spinning reel single model (over 60 years). During that time, very little change was made to the original design.
Why fix something that it isn't broke. :)
I did feel that the upgrade I did at the very first page on this discussion was a good one though.
The 300 is still keeping its value after so many years, some are going for over $100 still.
Thank you guys!
Sal
Quote from: Penn Chronology on August 18, 2019, 07:47:22 AM
I feel Luxor / Crack reels were a higher end reels than Penn, their market share was very different.
That says it all. Thanks.
Luckily I was able to snag one cheap before the price went up
again.-steve
Not a Penn, but I just spotted this beauty on Vintage Penn Reels
(https://i.imgur.com/22yDkdf.jpg)
I think he did a great custom job on that Luxor.
Sal
Had this Saumon Mer Seven Seas NR-3-LA big boy from around '57 sitting in a tote for the last 10 years. Never opened it up. You guys stoked my curiosity so I figured I might as well take a peak. ::) It works great but needs some serious TLC. ;) I'll get to it one of these winters. :)
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_45_58_289372010.jpeg)
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_45_53_28937900.jpeg)
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_45_58_289402189.jpeg)
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_45_54_289372292.jpeg)
Here it is with the mini Van Stall. :D
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_46_00_28941216.jpeg)
I opened up the Van Stall. You can see its innards over here. (https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=29214.msg338526#msg338526) 8)
QuoteThe 300 is still keeping its value after so many years, some are going for over $100 still.
They go up and down in value. I think you are correct. They are certainly worth $100, especially a nice, unmolested Crack 300. I remember them being higher in value about 15 years ago. As they age, the interest in them changes. Not too many people want to fish with them anymore. Modern spinning reels are so much more smooth in operation than these old mechanical workhorses. They will always be special to me because of how I felt about them when I was young. They were the best on the beach in 1966!
My Seven Seas is a late '50s/ early '60s run. Notice the difference in gearing.
(https://alantani.com/gallery/28/17004_18_08_19_7_45_53_28937900.jpeg)
Holy cow! I received a Crack in the mail. The model number is not marked but it must be a 300 because it's huge. A black drilled spool in a bronze-colored frame and rotor. Manual pick-up. You understand immediately why they drilled and cut slits and such because it weighs a freaking ton. What a machine. This has got to be the tank of spinning reels. Pitchers tomorrow.
-steve
QuoteHoly cow! I received a Crack in the mail. The model number is not marked but it must be a 300 because it's huge. A black drilled spool in a bronze-colored frame and rotor. Manual pick-up. You understand immediately why they drilled and cut slits and such because it weighs a freaking ton. What a machine. This has got to be the tank of spinning reels. Pitchers tomorrow.
The Crack version of the big Luxor was not sold until 1968. The reel was around from the 1940 in many different versions and model varitions. Put up detailed pictures and I might be able to place the reel in its correct vintage.
Thank you Michael. It is full of lithium grease and had 480 yards of about 15# white opaque mono which is reminiscent of 1970's or so.
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorA.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorA.jpg)
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorB.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorB.jpg)
Something that caught my eye was the manual pick-up. I suspect it my be a user modification but am not sure. Anyway, the pick-up roller has a little spring wire that catches the line and does not let it fall out. But, you can easily pull the line out from under the wire for casting. A really nice system that I will remember
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorD.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorD.jpg)
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorE.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorE.jpg)
The drag has three white plastic washers that are probably nylon. Definitely home made washers.
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorC.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorC.jpg)
I briefly opened the gear box open but did not open up the rotor. What is this gizmo?
http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorF.jpg (http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorF.jpg)
The ebay seller is in Kitty Hawk, NC. Since we have the same last name I took the liberty of asking her if she knows anything about when and where the reel was used. Have not heard back from her.
-steve
Quote from: oc1 on August 21, 2019, 06:42:15 AM
I briefly opened the gear box open but did not open up the rotor. What is this gizmo?
(http://www.raingarden.us/snap/LuxorF.jpg)
I believe that is where the bail wire attaches.
Steve,
Your reel is a very early Crack 300 from 1968 right after the Mauborgne family split with P&M and started up with LLM under the Crack trade name. Later in that year they no longer had the "BERNOUVILLE-EURE" on the side plate.
Mo is correct, the reel is actually a full bail that has either been modified or the bail wire was broken and removed. The wire under the roller is called a "Line Stop Clip". It's intended to maintain the line on the roller during casting, especially surf casting. The wire is bent out of its intended position, as is evidenced in the fourth photo. The loose end is supposed to be in the hole next to the line roller. You can see the hole on the back of the arm next to the line roller bolt head. The spool is not original to that specific reel, as I'm sure you are well aware.
Start lifting weights if you intend on using that monster! ;D
Quote from: Midway Tommy on August 21, 2019, 04:34:01 PM
Start lifting weights if you intend on using that monster! ;D
Thank you gentlemen. I didn't pay much and have no use for a reel this big, but am thinking it might make a good boat anchor.
-steve
If you guys can't handle 2lb worth of reel, you need to eat more wheaties. ::).
This reel is designed for saltwater fishing.
Sal
Quote from: Alto Mare on August 22, 2019, 12:40:06 AM
If you guys can't handle 2lb worth of reel, you need to eat more wheaties. ::).
This reel is designed for saltwater fishing.
Sal
A few weeks of working with Sal would beef up anyone's grip. ;)
Quote from: Alto Mare on August 22, 2019, 12:40:06 AM
If you guys can't handle 2lb worth of reel, you need to eat more wheaties. ::).
This reel is designed for saltwater fishing.
Sal
HA! I'm one of those weenie fresh water guys and used to 7 oz. ;D Fishing is supposed to be fun and relaxing, not work and tiring. :P
Quote from: Midway Tommy on August 22, 2019, 01:15:17 AM
Quote from: Alto Mare on August 22, 2019, 12:40:06 AM
If you guys can't handle 2lb worth of reel, you need to eat more wheaties. ::).
This reel is designed for saltwater fishing.
Sal
HA! I'm one of those weenie fresh water guys and used to 7 oz. ;D Fishing is supposed to be fun and relaxing, not work and tiring. :P
Some Hawaiians cast 4/0's and 6/0's while having fun :), it's all on the individual...this is a 2lbs reel.
This one would be more of your style, coming in at 8 oz.
(https://i.imgur.com/1f1rzje.jpg)
I was able to find it here, my buddy in Italy that collects these told me it is extremely hard to find. this one is new with box and papers.
Nice little guy.
Sal
QuoteIf you guys can't handle 2lb worth of reel, you need to eat more wheaties.
:D :D
That's for sure. Surf fisherman would swim with these, climb onto a rock and fish with them all night long with 12 foot rods. These reels we built to handle big fish, in tough conditions by burly strong fisherman.
Your reel is a old Crack model that once had a full bail wire. It has been removed because of the preference of its original owner. Reels set up with a MPU have that place where the non-roller end of the bail wire mounts, removed. The info you need has already been stated here. Your line pick up roller wire guide is damaged. It should look like this and the end of the bail wire should be in the ""gizmo"" hole like in the second photo.
Here is an old Luxor "C" model that has been set up for a MPU by a swimming fisherman. The cup is drilled for drainage after full submersion, the MPU roller wire is gone, the gizmo is removed and the gizmo mounting hole filled. This is one of those old time tough guy reels.
Thanks. If you're going to swim with it then you might as well drill the gear box too, huh?
-steve
[quothanks. If you're going to swim with it then you might as well drill the gear box too, huh?e][/quote]
Yup, otherwise the spool becomes a piston to get the water out.....<:O)
Just inherited 2 Crack 300's from my late brother-in-law. they are marked with tape on the reel seat, one '83 and one '94 so I'm assuming that's the year of mfg. They look to be in decent shape, have not opened them up but was astounded to find the complete manual here and a great tutorial for cleaning etc. Thanks for that Alan!
So assuming I do open them up and clean out what kind of grease would I use for the gearbox when I close them back up?
Have read all the posts and I'm glad to be able to continue the care and use of these that my brother-in-law would have. Will most likely use them in Saltwater on the Chesapeake and Atlantic here. Thanks for any other guidance.
RT
Quote from: ReelBob on June 30, 2021, 03:20:22 AM
one '83 and one '94 so I'm assuming that's the year of mfg.
I don't think so. More like the 1950's and 1960's. Got a picture?
QuoteJust inherited 2 Crack 300's from my late brother-in-law. they are marked with tape on the reel seat, one '83 and one '94 so I'm assuming that's the year of mfg. They look to be in decent shape, have not opened them up but was astounded to find the complete manual here and a great tutorial for cleaning etc. Thanks for that Alan!
A little known fact about Crack reels is they were made for many, many years. Luxor stopped making them in 1979, but sold all the parts to two companies which kept putting reels together and selling them for many years. These companies even manufactured some parts. The last Crack reels were sold in 1999. So your reels may be later models. They are all the same.
A well known brand owes its basic design concept to Luxor / Crack Products. That is Van Staal. To me, a Van Staal reel is a modern day Crack.......
Great post.
Sal was a very talented man.