Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Spinning Reel Rebuild Tutorials and Questions => Abu Garcia/Garcia/Mitchell => Mitchell => Topic started by: mo65 on October 20, 2019, 12:06:06 AM

Title: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: mo65 on October 20, 2019, 12:06:06 AM
   I really like this 306. Although the power of the 302 is more suited to what I need, for a guy who likes ultralight spinning reels the 302 is a hulking, awkward beast. The 306 just feels better balanced. With some tweaking applied to the drag system, the 306 squeaks into the power range I'm needing. For catfishing, I also like the larger gear teeth on the 306, as compared to the 406 with it's higher speed and thinner gear teeth.
  These first two pics are from the eBay listing of the 306 I bought...typical soft focus...but not really needed in this case. This reel was near mint.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926329082_c4cb6d0356_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxse4Y)(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926329047_90b277309b_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxse4n)

  There are a few things to watch for on these reels. One is the pinion key, circled in green below. This thing can get lost easy...be careful! The yellow arrow points to the rotating head lock, note how well your Penn wrench fits that slot.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926327872_6eecb29f8d_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxsdH7)

  I love the pinion bearing on this reel, a big fat Oilite bronze bushing, the ultimate low maintenance bearing.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926328992_254f04d4c2_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxse3q)

  I had a 306/406 PUM burning a hole in my pocket...it's found a home!

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926133761_e87810e6d3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxre1n)

  It's a fact...simple designs are great. Mitchell's "take it apart with a coin" campaign was a great selling point.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926133636_0d7a2ced00_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxrdYd)

  When taking the spool apart the first thing I noticed is there are no fiber washers used in the drag system. The spool spins top and bottom on plastic. It did seem to work alright, but there was room for improvement. It was smooth, but had a bit of "start up". I think the power was so low because the plastic worked much like Delrin or Teflon, very slippery. The pic below shows how there are recessed areas in both the spindle and the drag bearing. You thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?  

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926328662_3b61d5aaab_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxsdWJ)

  Oh yeah...now we're getting somewhere!

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926133396_f3e8658eb5_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxrdU5)

  That drag bearing needs some carbon fiber on the top side too, between it and the brake spring, which is keyed to the spindle. Now the spool is spinning on greased carbon fiber top and bottom. Power increased a bit, and start up is history.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926328472_d240ee57d3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxsdTs)

  I needed a way to decrease the spool capacity for braid, and this South Bend spool adapter looked like it might work with a bit trimmed off.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926133181_f826a10463_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxrdQn)

  It worked out just right...the spool held 200yds. of 30lb. braid.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48925598963_d24a813075_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxou2H)

  Here's a before and after view of the gear box. I guess you'd call it...clean and cleaner?

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926328212_182f12351d_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxsdNY)(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926328077_159ea69638_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxsdLD)

  Topped off with a sweet power knob on the handle, this reel is ready to get wet. Hope I don't scratch it! 8)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48925598518_b9b6ec5075_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxotU3)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48926132861_f4fd7faeb5_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2hxrdJR)
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: TRS on October 20, 2019, 12:20:05 AM
Very nice, what thickness of carbon fiber??   I added a Teflon washer to the lower part of the spool it smoothed out the original drag, thinking of adding carbon fiber.  I'm in the process of replacing the reels on my GFs catfish ugly stiks and I think the 306 balances the rod better and is way better looking than using a 300.

Really like the handle on that reel!!
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: mo65 on October 20, 2019, 12:28:34 AM
Quote from: TRS on October 20, 2019, 12:20:05 AM
Very nice, what thickness of carbon fiber??   

   I used .030 since the recess is about .015, figured that wouldn't upset the line lay too bad.
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: festus on October 20, 2019, 12:51:19 AM
Nice upgrade to the drag system and PUM, Mo. 
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: Crow on October 20, 2019, 12:59:32 AM
Great write up, Mo !
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: Midway Tommy on October 21, 2019, 04:09:46 AM
Nice adaptions, Mike. That should be a nice reel to fish with.
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 18, 2023, 10:05:35 PM
Late to the post, here, but thank you so much for these detailed pictures! I'm about to start my second reel breakdown ever-a 306, and this is so helpful!

Did you have to make those cf washers yourself, or do they fit a Penn reel or something (smoothdrag?). If you see this, Thanks!
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: mo65 on February 19, 2023, 12:43:14 PM
Quote from: cbamer on February 18, 2023, 10:05:35 PMDid you have to make those cf washers yourself, or do they fit a Penn reel or something (smoothdrag?). If you see this, Thanks!

  If I remember correctly, I just found washers with the correct inside diameter and then trimmed the outside diameter to fit. Those CF washers are easy to trim...even the inside diameter if necessary. 8)
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 20, 2023, 12:37:45 AM
Thank you!
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 23, 2023, 04:34:14 AM
Any tricks to installing the bail spring on the 306? I'm really struggling with it. Seems like I have to use a lot of force, and may have bent it. The one time I've been able to spin it all the way round and get the big screw in place, it doesn't work properly. The bail worked perfectly before I took it apart to clean all the gunk out of it...

On the schematics, it's the same part number spring as a 300-is this really the case? The springs are interchangeable?

Any wisdom deeply appreciated at this point-pulling out my hair, and one spring has already sprung across the room... thanks, Carla
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 23, 2023, 06:17:17 AM
Hi Carla —-

The bail spring & bail on Mitchell reels, and particularly the 306 are kind of a trick —- until you have done a couple.

First, remove the bail wire completely from the rotating head —- both sides.

Second, turn off the Anti-Reverse lever so that you have a little more freedom and wiggle room.

Drop the bail spring into its proper cavity.

Notice on the main bail mount (spring side) —- that there is a little protrusion nub that MUST set inside the bail spring coils.

The tiny insert hole for the top of the bail spring is right next to this nub.

With no spring pressure —- orient the bail wire backwards against the reel body.

When the nub in place, and the bail spring is in the bail mount hole —- start the bail screw.

Screw it all of the way in —- then test it to make sure the bail is actively under proper spring pressure now.

Carefully back out the main bail screw just slightly —- then also slightly back off the inside trip lever.  This will allow you to maneuver the bail mount back and past the trip lever.

Tighten both screws —- and then the one on the opposite side holding the other end of the bail in place —- and it should be fine.

I just took one apart very quickly —- then put it back together.  In my case, I also removed completely the trip lever, trip lever spring, and trip lever screw.  But this is not necessary.

If you bent anything —- just let me know —- and I can send replacements.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: thorhammer on February 23, 2023, 02:38:53 PM
I found a foolproof way to fix DQ, Zebco etc., bail springs, because I hate working on spinner bails for this exact reason: I sent them to Fred :)

I love the 306 for fishability and simplicity. The 307 was Grandad's preferred surf / pier reel, I still have two of his. Good luck on yours, Carla. Fred is the parts guy, no question, but if I have any surf tackle you need, I'll send it, NC, and get the kids fishing. Bill, Wayne, Greg and others and have sent me stuff to get some kids fishing around here, and on AT we gonna pay forward.


Nice job on yours, Mikey! Where'd you get that knob?
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 23, 2023, 05:53:51 PM
As we all delve deeper into reel service and restorations —- we will find that there are only a few basic principles that are important.

Some for Conventionals —- some for spinners.

One of the main principles on spinning reels —-

Always find a way or a process to install a spring-loaded part such as a bail, trip lever, A/R dog, etc. —- in a "free" position —- then tighten things up —- and afterwards, check the spring action.

While possible with most reels —- a better and quicker result —- with no forcing or tweaking of springs happens when the part is installed using a "no initial spring pressure" method.

The easiest way on bail springs is to take the bail wire off of the bail arm —- then install the bail arm and spring without the wire.

On many spinners, this is not possible —- but the principle still holds true. So find a way to install the bail and spring that requires not doing so under spring pressure —- then test and activate the spring.

There is always a way.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: Midway Tommy on February 23, 2023, 06:49:32 PM
What Fred said, but, I've found it to be even easier and what ends up taking less time, especially on certain models, is to remove the main shaft and then remove the rotor. With the rotor loose there are no obstructions to wrestle.
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 23, 2023, 06:56:12 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on February 23, 2023, 06:44:18 PMWhat Fred said, but, I've found it to be even easier and what ends up taking less time, especially on certain models, is to remove the main shaft and then remove the rotor. With the rotor loose there are no obstructions to wrestle.

All true, Tommy —-

When doing a complete —-

The way I reassemble a spinning reel after cleaning, is —-

Assemble complete spool first

Assemble complete rotor with bail and internals

Assemble crank handle and/or shift/crank assembly

Install gears, A/R, bearing, etc

Install completed rotor assembly

Insert spool shaft & connect

Install handle assembly

Snap on spool

Test all functions, make sure all screws and nuts are snug, reinspect —- wipe it off, bag it as done.

Some spinners will not allow this simple system —- there are always exceptions —- but this works on a majority.

Best, Fred

Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 23, 2023, 08:33:43 PM
This is all great advice-Thank you!

Since I can't find the spring that leapt across the room, I'm trying to use the one spare 300 spring I have. It's the same part number as on the 306. I finally looked at pictures of the 306 spring online (which also fits the 301 according to sellers). Looks like it is wound the opposite way of the 300 spring. Which would explain why I can't get it installed...

Fred, you just sent me a mailer of small parts, and I feel a dolt for asking again for a 306 spring, but unless the 300 spring will work, I'll need to get one somehow. I have a couple Penn 710 greenies coming in the mail that may need parts (and at least one replacement emblem) so I'll put this 306 aside until I know what they need and then make a request.

Again, thank you all for the tips and advice. I'll do my best to incorporate them all.

Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 23, 2023, 08:49:23 PM
thorhammer: that is so kind of you to offer tackle for the kids. Right now, I think we'll be ok to start. I'm thinking a simplified carolina rig might be pretty easy for them to cast, and I'm also going to try tying some flies that do well around here, but put them on a leader with a large water-filled bubble, snap swivel and a couple small slider weights. The kids already love to catch sand crabs (though they may be too tender-hearted to use them for bait). If you have any easy to cast rig ideas for kids fishing close to shore, I'd love to hear them!
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 23, 2023, 09:16:34 PM
No worries, Carla —-

I will send you a correct 306 bail spring.

The left hand and right hand springs are different.

Haven't been able to get down the 10 miles to the Post Office due to the Holiday on Monday —- then the icy roads.

But have to go down today —- so will send them off.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 24, 2023, 12:42:28 AM
Hi Carla —-

Just got back from the Post Office —- Roads are not good, but will be worse tomorrow.  Had a few boxes to mail.

Stuffed the original parts and envelope inside of a larger bubble mailer, along with (2) bail springs for the 306.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 24, 2023, 01:03:46 AM
Wow, thank you Fred! That news makes my day.

After setting aside the 306 I assembled the 300, but it definitely needs the shim(s) you just posted: it's so loud it might scare the fish.

Our roads here are icing up too, even downtown at sea level and right on the water! Glad you made it home safe. Time for a hot drink and a good movie!
Carla
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: Gfish on February 24, 2023, 03:10:41 PM
I noticed from the pictures, Mo's(4th picture down) 306 bail wire looks detachable from the spring-side bail arm, and the one in Fred's picture don't. An older version(Freds)? Looks like a much stronger version, or, am I missing something?
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: foakes on February 24, 2023, 05:43:26 PM
Quote from: Gfish on February 24, 2023, 03:10:41 PMI noticed from the pictures, Mo's(4th picture down) 306 bail wire looks detachable from the spring-side bail arm, and the one in Fred's picture don't. An older version(Freds)? Looks like a much stronger version, or, am I missing something?

You are correct —- There are (2) different versions, Greg.

Both work fine.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Tinkering With The 306
Post by: cbamer on February 24, 2023, 08:11:38 PM
Greg-I missed that the first time I looked through Mo's pictures. I saw it later, but after I'd lost the spring. Taking the bail are off makesit much easier to rotate the mount, and I might not have lost the spring if I'd taken the arm off first time around... at least I'm ready for when the replacement spring arrives (thanks, Fred)!