Old Post. I've put all the different build posts into one thread.
Since it's been slow in here lately, I figured I'd throw this up for fun.
This is a reel I've been building for the last couple months. I've thought of it as my catfish reel, but really, it will work great for inshore fish and should be strong enough for some larger stuff as well.
I started with a nice condition, older model Penn Mag 10. These are great reels right out or the box! Great levelwind system, 4:1 gearing, factory mag tuned for cast control, and bearings instead of bushings.
(https://i.imgur.com/Rdd3zsG.jpg)
I have another one I'm going to be tweaking for bass and stuff, but this one is getting Frankensteined 8)
My plan is to remove the levelwind to increase the casting ability and beef it up to make a really strong reel in a small package.
(I know, I know... I could have bought a newer reel that will do all this, but what fun would that be? ;D )
First step was to make a stainless rod to delete the levelwind.
(https://i.imgur.com/kcXV6lZ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GKzju3u.jpg)
Next, I made some mods to install a Cortez Conversions free spool lever.
(https://i.imgur.com/gBclQvv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zckiacL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Sr0vcfE.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OYaoGpv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8yQzGHW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Kbhkjn9.jpg)
Next step was to beef up the bridge.
I added a stainless steel gear sleeve and double dogged it with two stainless steel dogs.
(https://i.imgur.com/lPwaHjO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xETYqTk.jpg)
So next, I started on implementing a stronger reel stand.
The original is thin stamped steel and does not have provisions for a clamp.
I made some spacers so that I could mount a 30-49 stand from a larger Penn reel that is thicker steel and has holes for mounting a clamp.
(https://i.imgur.com/oyJoV8p.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HcP5vt0.jpg)
This is a great upgrade, but I had an idea I could take it further...
I picked up a Newell aluminum stand/clamp for a Newell 220/Penn 501.
I also got a piece of aluminum tube and headed out to the Bridgeport.
(https://i.imgur.com/gdILZgO.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pYqR5do.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6wSV8oM.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bty3dS3.jpg)
I drilled and tapped the hole pattern for the side plates.
Roughed out and ugly, but getting closer on the frame.
I also got a nice counterbore to open up the holes in the side plates for the larger screws.
(https://i.imgur.com/DCPQmJf.jpg)
Here's the finished frame ready for test fit.
(https://i.imgur.com/mTvcmJs.jpg)
Here it is assembled to the side plates with the level wind delete bar.
I was not able to have the spool installed as I found one more little spot where it rubbed the frame.
I bit more clearance and it's good. Hope finish that tomorrow and then final assembly by the end of the week!
(https://i.imgur.com/VQGjvkn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/8Lz41EP.jpg)
Final lube and assembly done!
Had to fine tune a couple more things, but I love this reel!
Just need to spool it up. I'm thinking 50 lb. braid and 30 lb. mono top shot? What do ya'll think?
One last step will be to pull it back apart in a couple of weeks to get the frame anodized. ;D
(https://i.imgur.com/HzPMutA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/KeFMuRD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QgDGRdY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/6UiwGUk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hrSjkou.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/4BEP0MT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/F8qMWUz.jpg)
All done! ;D
I was able to get the frame anodized to match the handle and eccentric lever!
Here's the finished product, I hope you all like it! I can't wait for a chance to fish it!
(https://i.imgur.com/1LaPibm.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JZjnslT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/CXBsV2C.jpg)
Update:
I had to sell this reel awhile back due to finances. Thankfully the guy I sold it to was kind enough to return it to me in trade for another rod and reel.
I spooled it up with 50 lb. Power Pro and mounted it on a 10' Diawa Emcast that Brett gave me.
Ready to fish! (if I can find time to fish :P )
I love reading and watching the original thread for this reel, awesome work brother!
Quote from: xjchad on February 20, 2020, 06:56:31 PM
Update:
I had to sell this reel awhile back due to finances. Thankfully the guy I sold it to was kind enough to return it to me in trade for another rod and reel.
wow, now thats some really good luck !!
I wish I could get some reels I have sold back too :'( :'(
Nice work Chad - stoked you got the Monster Mag back again!
Cheers, Justin
Beauty!
Good for you Chad. Glad you got it back. Dominick