Reel Repair by Alan Tani

Spinning Reel Rebuild Tutorials and Questions => Abu Garcia/Garcia/Mitchell => Topic started by: Windsurfrgal on October 01, 2013, 02:48:35 AM

Title: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Windsurfrgal on October 01, 2013, 02:48:35 AM
I have inherited a Garcia Mitchell 306 from my Dad. I am new to fishing and wanted to clean and lube the reel.  I downloaded the instruction manual and schematics and took it apart. Unfortunately I can't get it back together.  The diagrams in the old manual are almost impossible to see the technique for some reassembly is a mystery. I think I must have a spring wrong somewhere.
I also ended up with a very tiny pin that is not anywhere in the directions. I don't know where it popped off of. I have searched You Tube and various parts sites but can't find anywhere that has an assembly video for this reel. Does anyone know where I could get either a video or diagrams for reassembly? 

Thanks!

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: bluefish69 on October 01, 2013, 03:29:47 AM
Try Mitchell Fishing Reel Museum-- that's what I am using
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: TomT on October 01, 2013, 04:00:25 AM
I tore down, cleaned and lubed a couple of MG 302's and a 303.  When, in doubt, I just didn't take part of them apart too far.  I would assume most of the MG's are similar to your 306, so any MG spinning reel tutorial might work.  But I really don't know.  From my reading on this site, some avoid the spinning reels because of problems like yours.  Hopefully, somebody with real "reel" knowledge will respond and give you a better answer. Good Luck,
TomT
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Captain64-200 on December 24, 2017, 10:23:30 AM
Quote from: Windsurfrgal on October 01, 2013, 02:48:35 AM
I have inherited a Garcia Mitchell 306 from my Dad. I am new to fishing and wanted to clean and lube the reel.  I downloaded the instruction manual and schematics and took it apart. Unfortunately I can't get it back together.  The diagrams in the old manual are almost impossible to see the technique for some reassembly is a mystery. I think I must have a spring wrong somewhere.
I also ended up with a very tiny pin that is not anywhere in the directions. I don't know where it popped off of. I have searched You Tube and various parts sites but can't find anywhere that has an assembly video for this reel. Does anyone know where I could get either a video or diagrams for reassembly? 

Thanks!



Plenty of vids on YT : for example this one:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25eC1-hdaag       spinning reels look simple ,but sometime the're not so ... ;D
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: thorhammer on December 24, 2017, 02:38:51 PM
If you get stuck, post pics and someone (Fred or Tommy lol) will be along. The Mitchell has a tiny keyway pin that is a bit of a PITA. But we'll get you back together. i have several of the 306's; the 307 was my granddad's favorite for the surf and pier.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Midway Tommy on December 24, 2017, 03:07:45 PM
I'll probably defer to Fred since he is way more versed on Mitchells than I am, but photos of where you are at and where the problem lies is imperative for an accurate diagnosis &  fix.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on December 24, 2017, 05:26:30 PM
The main gear has to go in first before the pinion gear. That night be your problem.

Ill pull one down today and take some pictures.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Gfish on December 24, 2017, 06:03:52 PM
What Thorhammer said, about the tiny pin. The schematics for these reels leave alot to be desired. I had onea these once, and I vaguely remember that pin. It may go into the top of the gear box body, underneath the rotor...?
Gfish
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on December 24, 2017, 06:19:00 PM
I'll be posting pictures in 10 minutes.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on December 24, 2017, 06:44:10 PM
More...
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on December 24, 2017, 06:46:59 PM
Last one. These are very simple except for the fact if you lose the the pinion key it can't be put back together.

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on December 24, 2017, 06:53:28 PM
And if anyone needs crisp, clear schematics -- some of my vintage shop manuals from 30 or 40 years ago -- have very clear depictions.

And I can enlarge any part in question up to 22 times for a photo.

I have shop manuals for most brands from the 50's through late 90's.  All organized and easily to access.

The 306, IMO -- is possibly the second easiest Mitchell to work on.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Gfish on December 25, 2017, 07:29:37 AM
Excellent handi2 n' Fred! Thanks for clarifying that one.
Gfish
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: festus on December 25, 2017, 02:59:28 PM
Quote from: foakes on December 24, 2017, 06:53:28 PM
The 306, IMO -- is possibly the second easiest Mitchell to work on.

Best,
Fred
I've never seen a 306, let alone work on one, but the innards look similar to my 308.

BTW, Fred, which do you consider the easiest Mitchell to work on? IMO is the 300.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Swami805 on December 25, 2017, 03:23:02 PM
Wow, very good information, makes me almost want to get one. Did anyone notice the post was from 2013? I wonder if she's still checking the board for an answer?
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on December 25, 2017, 03:25:30 PM
I sure didnt.  :-[
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Captain64-200 on December 25, 2017, 05:54:30 PM
Quote from: Swami805 on December 25, 2017, 03:23:02 PM
Wow, very good information, makes me almost want to get one. Did anyone notice the post was from 2013? I wonder if she's still checking the board for an answer?

Oups sorry , my fault !  I saw the post  in " unread posts since last visit. "   I don't know why ....
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: swill88 on December 25, 2017, 06:10:17 PM
Quote from: Captain64-200 on December 25, 2017, 05:54:30 PM
Quote from: Swami805 on December 25, 2017, 03:23:02 PM
Wow, very good information, makes me almost want to get one. Did anyone notice the post was from 2013? I wonder if she's still checking the board for an answer?

Oups sorry , my fault !  I saw the post  in " unread posts since last visit. "   I don't know why ....

no need to apologize... it was a great and timely help... thanks
steve
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Swami805 on December 25, 2017, 06:15:48 PM
Yes very informative, I'll know where to go to service one if the need arises. Just thought it was kinda funny. Would be great if she responded.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: bhale1 on December 25, 2017, 06:37:02 PM
All,

She was last active on the site 10/01/13.... ;D
But now thanks to Keith and Fred, we have pics and a thread to go to if someone encounters the same issue.
Brett
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Midway Tommy on December 26, 2017, 04:37:55 AM
HA! That's quite ironic, I didn't notice the original post either.  ??? I was just responding to the latest one or two.  :)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Pejay on August 01, 2018, 06:52:11 PM
I have a current question on assembly (actually dis-assembly) of my 306. I can't get the bushing and transfer gear out of the neck. Further, I'm not sure if it comes out into the gear box or up through the neck. I don't want to force it, but can I use light pressure to dislodge it? I've attached pics.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Gfish on August 02, 2018, 05:00:22 AM
Now I can't remember. Mines in another place. I liked mine so much I wore it out, bought another one, same era but with less wear.
I do remember having the same trouble when servicing. Did you take out the keyway pin yet? My best recollective guess is that once you pull that pin (don't lose it!), it comes outta the top a the gear box.
BTW, welcome Pejay!  
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Pejay on August 02, 2018, 06:34:18 PM
I removed the pin (keeping it safe) but bushing and gear didn't slip out as I would expect. WD40 hasn't loosened it yet. Guess I could try tapping around the neck to loosen the bushing.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on August 02, 2018, 06:42:31 PM
The pinion gear and bushing will come out the top. Try a small implement or nail through the hole to wiggle the bushing. You can use a larger nail head first down inside the pinion gear and pull with some pliers. Let the nail head catch the other end of the pinion gear.

Keith
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on August 02, 2018, 07:12:38 PM
Like in Keith's earlier great photos —

Make sure that in addition to removing the tiny key —you also remove the bail trip piece.

It holds the pinion bushing in place, and like Keith sez —it just comes out from the top — not the inside towards the case.

If it is fused or stuck — just tap the pinion from the inside out — using a piece of wood to support the frame, as well as a piece of wood to tap with the hammer against the pinion.

Also, if fused — a few drops of penetrating oil such as Kroil for 30 minutes should free it up.

Best,

Fred

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Pejay on August 03, 2018, 05:37:34 PM
You hit the head with the nail!! I tried all your suggestions and was able pull the pinion out. On to further cleanng.
Thanks so much for your helpful posts.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Decker on August 03, 2018, 06:41:06 PM
This is referring to post from last year on this thread, but...

Fred, what is that gizmo you're using to look at the manuals?
(http://alantani.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8491.0;attach=45590;image)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on August 03, 2018, 08:07:02 PM
That is just a vision enhancer, Joe —

Great for small parts, tiny directions, schematics, etc.

They are used for folks with low vision issues for reading, connecting to a computer, or scanning to a printer.

It will enlarge things from 3 to 26 times — and has eight modes for color, B&W, W&B, green, yellow, etc.

Below is an example of a Squidder dog spring at 26 magnification.

Pretty handy.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Pejay on August 03, 2018, 08:51:46 PM
Okay guys another question. Is there supposed to be a filter or wad of something inside the stem on the main gear where the handle screws into? I dislodged "stuff" when cleaning the small opening ( oil port?) on the stem.
Thanks
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: RamseyReelRepair on August 03, 2018, 09:54:49 PM
I sometimes put a towel rod on the bottom and tap it a little to pop the gear and bearing out.

West
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Gfish on August 04, 2018, 04:23:35 AM
Quote from: Pejay on August 03, 2018, 08:51:46 PM
Okay guys another question. Is there supposed to be a filter or wad of something inside the stem on the main gear where the handle screws into? I dislodged "stuff" when cleaning the small opening ( oil port?) on the stem.
Thanks
Yep. That'n I remember. If yours is trashed, you could just pump it fulla grease.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Pejay on August 04, 2018, 11:30:16 PM
Thanks Gfish
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 04, 2018, 04:17:27 PM
Hi Gang,
Glad I found this thread.  I am having a heckava time trying to get the spindle off of a 306.  Any recommendations?  It is not budging, should it pop right off by pushing the shaft on the terminal end down?  I don't want to force anything.  I've literally soaked it with penetrating oil and it is tight as can be.  The photos in this thread are great but nothing shows the spindle removal.

It's a reel I picked up at a yard sale and in good condition.  Right now the spool will not turn and I'm trying to get it apart to figure out why.  Thanks in advance for any help.

Here is a couple of photos of where I am at.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 04, 2018, 04:53:54 PM
Hi Steve, and Welcome!

It is likely rusted or salt-fused.

Sometimes the only answers to questions are bad ones...

I would grab the spindle with a pair of channel locks with tape on the jaws — not too tight — but while using a screwdriver to push the center release button downward —use the CL's to try and remove or twist slightly the spindle off of the spool axle.  This after using penetrating oil as you have already indicated you did.

There is a fair chance that parts will be ruined — but the spindle has to come off and the spool needs to turn to have a working reel.

If you need another spindle or spool assembly, I have those.

So no worries...

If you do get it off successfully — clean everything up, remove any corrosion, oil and reinstall to test function.  It should be smooth and easy.

Keep us informed of your progress.

Best,

Fred

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 05, 2018, 02:38:47 PM
Thanks Fred!  Your photos helped me understand what the top of the spindle looks like.  I was able to put a channel lock on the spindle but was only able to pull the main shaft out of the reel body.  Now I can't seem to separate the spindle from the shaft, I soaked it all night in penetrating oil but I guess I am going to have to lean into it a bit more as it hasn't loosened up at all. The center release button has no give to it whatsoever.

Otherwise, everything else is in real good shape.  Can you clarify the proper drag sequence?  The schematics seem to show that the drag bearing goes in first, followed by the brake spring and then tightened down with the drag adjusting knob.  (When I took it apart originally, the brake spring was followed by the drag bearing and the adjusting knob was on top.)


Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 05, 2018, 03:29:01 PM
Woo hoo!  Got the spindle off.  Put the shaft in a vise and pulled and twisted and it came off, with no damage by all appearances.  Now it's time to clean everything up a bit more and get it reassembled.

I will likely not take the pinion gear and bushing out since I saw a recommendation on a Youtube video that this is a critically aligned and will do more harm than good.  Unfortunately, this will prevent me from pulling the drive gear. 

Do any of you have an opinion on removing the pinion and bushing??

Thanks!
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 05, 2018, 04:51:49 PM
You should remove the pinion, Steve —

Get everything completely cleaned and lubed properly.

On the Internet, Lots of folks have opinions — some know what they are talking about, some don't.

Nothing wrong with that — it is just up to each of us to sort things out that make sense.

The 306 is actually one of the easiest reels to work on in the Mitchell lineup.

And there are no alignment issues, unless the reassemble process is not correct.

Like many 306 & 302's — this one has been allowed to rest for long periods of time without the spool being popped off.  That allows water or salt to corrode the spool spindle to the shaft.  This is true on many reels, not just Mitchells.

After servicing the reel, grease lightly the spool shaft where it inserts into the spool spindle.  Then it is not a bad idea to pop the spool after using the reel also.

I don't think that your reel is going to operate as smoothly as it could with the corrosion on the axle, spindle, and spring drag washer — even after you clean it up.  The corrosion has caused rough spots.

So I serviced a 306 spool with new parts, included a good axle, and also included an extra Cal's greased CF drag disc for buttery smoothness and longevity.

PM me your full mailing information, and I will get this out to you.

N/C.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: mo65 on September 05, 2018, 05:15:48 PM
Quote from: foakes on September 05, 2018, 04:51:49 PM
I don't think that your reel is going to operate as smoothly as it could with the corrosion on the axle, spindle, and spring drag washer — even after you clean it up.  The corrosion has caused rough spots.

So I serviced a 306 spool with new parts, included a good axle, and also included an extra Cal's greased CF drag disc for buttery smoothness and longevity.

PM me your full mailing information, and I will get this out to you.

N/C.

   This is why I love this site. On other forums the average answer to a post like this would be "ditch that POS and buy a new Shimano"...or "I'll sell you a NOS 306 for $200 plus shipping". I agree with Fred, the level of corrosion on some of your parts will probably affect performance. But, all those other parts may come in handy at some time, so keep the original reel handy for when some other guy comes along in need.
   Bravo Fred! Enjoy your new reel Steve. 8)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Dominick on September 05, 2018, 06:07:22 PM
Yep, great people.  Dominick
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: bhale1 on September 06, 2018, 03:05:01 AM
Fred,
As usual, Thank you for keeping this the most awesome site ever....
You are" THE BOMB"...(as my girls would say)...way to go ;D
Brett
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 06, 2018, 02:15:43 PM
Wow, Fred, I don't know what to say except thank you!  Not only for your offer but for all the help you provided.  I have the reel completely disassembled now and am soaking the pinion.  Now let me figure out how to PM you?!  Thanks again.  I just love working on old reels and fishing with them is fantastic.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 06, 2018, 02:31:36 PM
Just click on a member's user name, Steve —

Near the bottom of the profile will be a link to send that member a "personal message".

This way we don't get addresses and such out there as much for privacy/security reasons, and we don't clutter the site.  

However, anything that is possibly now, or in the future, useful information for the folks on our site — and does not contain private information should be posted for all to view.

I just need your full name and mailing information.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 07, 2018, 11:27:01 PM
Mailed yesterday— ETA is Monday due to the weekend and remote California PO to Massachusetts.

But it could be tomorrow, Saturday.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 12, 2018, 07:11:18 PM
How lucky am I?  The "Reel Parts Fairy" stopped at my house this week and dropped off all the items I need to not only get my 306 back in shape, but to make it operate smooth as silk.  Thank you FRED!!  I will look for an opportunity to pay it forward.  Also, when finished, I will store it in the cool, customized reel bag sporting your name.

Now that the reel is completely disassembled, I will include a few photos in the event someone needs to reference them in the future.

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 12, 2018, 07:34:18 PM
Now I've got another couple of questions to finish this one up.  The first involves the drag.  When I took mine apart, the drag included only a drag bearing which was held down with the brake spring and then the drag adjusting knob.  Also, the brake spring was oriented so that the "wings" were facing down thus making convex contact with the drag bearing.  The spool that Fred sent had a teflon washer followed by the brake spring in the concave (wings up) position.  Is this the correct direction for the brake spring?  Also, Fred sent a fiber washer in a bag...does that go onto the spool first, followed by the teflon washer?  Last but not least, should I use grease on all the drag washers when I put them in?

Next question is regarding the axle.  Mine has a pin that stick out that engages the bottom of the spindle.  The one Fred sent does not have the pin?  My guess is that the axle needs the pin.  The axle Fred sent is corrosion free and I want to use it.  Should I punch out what is left of the pin in the new axle?  Or maybe try to punch the pin out of my old axle and put it into the new axle?

Last but not least, I was going to follow the advice from a video I found on line (300 series) to lubricate the parts as I reassemble the reel.  I use Penn reel grease and oil.  Any other recommendations?

Thanks everyone for all the help.  Don't mean to be so needy but usually I just go about it on my own but now that I've found such a fantastic forum, I'm going to be a regular.

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 12, 2018, 08:28:26 PM
Drag washer goes in first (either the CF Cal's greased or the Teflon white, but not both) —

Followed by the brake spring with the wings oriented "up" —

Only use drag grease on the CF, not the Teflon, if using that one —

Punch out the old pin, if it doesn't work — just let me know, and I will mail a new pin out —

Oil on the exterior parts (bail assembly, crank knob, etc.), gear nub mounts, spool axle, etc. —

Use grease on the gears, Penn is good —

If used in freshwater, I cut the grease about 1/3 with oil such as CorrosionX, TSI321, or similar —

If slated for use in the Salt — generally just grease.  You can experiment with different lubricating qualities.  What is important — is if used in the salt — grease...if used in the fresh — more oil since you do not want the gears too stiff.  But in the salt, you need the protection.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 12, 2018, 09:29:34 PM
Hey Steve  —

Looks like I just found the cross pin under a screwdriver.

I will send it along this afternoon.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: scrinch on September 13, 2018, 12:55:39 AM
Hey thanks for this thread. It's just reminded me that I have an old gummed up 306 that my dad gave me when I was a kid back in the 60's to fish bonito at King Harbor in Redondo Beach. It hasn't been used since I got out of high school in the mid-70's. I'll get it out and see if I can take it apart and get it operating again. Both my dad and my maternal grandmother loved those black Mitchell spinners.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: grekim on September 13, 2018, 02:05:32 AM
Quote from: Dominick on September 05, 2018, 06:07:22 PM
Yep, great people.  Dominick

+1  The folks here are amazing caring people.  And the 306 is cool too  8)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: scrinch on September 15, 2018, 12:19:43 AM
I've come down with the flu today, so I don't feel like going out. I thought I'd get out the Mitchell 306 to help pass the time. I opened it up and found the body was 1/3 full of grease the color and texture of earwax! That's original grease from the 1960's, I think. I could just barely get the gears to move. After disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling, it spins smoothly and relatively easily. It still requires a little umph to spin the handle, and there's' a little wobble to the reel as the bail spins around, but it is worlds better than when I started.

The one problem I encountered is that there is no drag washer atop the spool...there's only the drag spring and knob. I vaguely remember many years ago taking the spool off the reel and a broken teflon or nylon disc fell out. I don't know how it would have broken...maybe it got brittle somehow. Anyway, I'm looking for a drag disk now. I see on the schematic that the part number is 81582. When I look on eBay, I find two different black plastic-looking pieces with this part number, but when I look at your photos, I see a white teflon disk and a carbon fiber disk. Neither of these is available on eBay. Are all of these interchangeable and used at different times on the 306, or am I misunderstanding what some of these are?

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 15, 2018, 05:10:33 AM
I'm down in Laguna Beach until Sunday afternoon —

When we get back, I could send you either a new Teflon drag or a CF greased — or both.

Only use one or the other, and both work well.

N/C.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: scrinch on September 15, 2018, 05:45:49 PM
Quote from: foakes on September 15, 2018, 05:10:33 AM
I'm down in Laguna Beach until Sunday afternoon —

When we get back, I could send you either a new Teflon drag or a CF greased — or both.

Only use one or the other, and both work well.

N/C.

Best,

Fred

Thanks very much for your offer Fred. I'll PM you my address. I guess the drag disk just needs to be flat, smooth, and durable, and any of these fits that bill.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: FMBSteve on September 17, 2018, 04:45:54 PM
Have fun with the 306, I finally finished mine with some help from the site and especially Fred.  The drag system was a bit confusing as my 306 had just a drag disk, spring and knob when I picked it up.  The greased CF drag is a definite improvement (thanks Fred!).

I have three more 300 series Mitchell's to get started on but apparently painting the house ranks above my reel hobby!  So they will have to wait.   Below is the finished reel, you can see the discolored bail but that won't affect it's performance.  I've got it paired with a Sam Scott Palm Beach Original 7' spinning rod from the same era.  It's a killer combo, now I need to spool the reel and give it a spin.

Thanks everyone!



Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: grekim on September 18, 2018, 07:51:24 PM
Nice rig my friend!

I have 306 question...feel free to move or delete :)   Actually, it's a 306A question.  After I take it out of gear and flip the switch to go back in gear, the dog creeps up the tiny post that it sits on ever so slightly.  This causes it to not go into gear right away (say a minute of reeling or tilting).  It is driving me a little crazy.  Right now there is basically just oil on that little post.  I thought of switching to the heavy penn blue grease, but then if it does move up it will be even harder to get back into gear.  Maybe plummer's tape, but it is such a small post and if it got lose inside it might cause other problems.  Thoughts?

Edit:  I think I fixed it.  The dog spring (metal strip) can be wiggled in its slot in the dog so that the end (the part away from the post) can be a tad higher than the dog/post end.  This creates a little downward force and seems to be preventing it from sliding up the post.  Been a great week of little tweaks!  Going to go small blue fishing tomorrow with this. 
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on September 19, 2018, 12:16:28 AM
Right, the attached dog spring strip can also be adjusted by slightly bending the strip to give a little more dog pressure, and less chance of slipping.

Sometimes a new dog with an intact spring will help — if you need one, here it is.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: grekim on September 19, 2018, 09:07:43 PM
Thanks Fred.  The reel worked perfectly today.  Unless you count the handle knob (that is used to collapse the handle) just shearing off and falling into the water at my feet!  It had been completely stuck since the previous owner neglected it, but the remaining handle is so fused that it is still quite usable.  This is why I carry a spare reel too.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: NCGeo on November 19, 2018, 12:21:50 AM
Great info on this thread. I picked up a 306
at a yard sale and then disassembled to clean it, as it would not crank.
Got to the point as shown in the photos but
Not sure what to next to remove remaining gears.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Midway Tommy on November 19, 2018, 05:49:15 AM
Lightly tap the rotor off towards the front. Then remove the keyway pin, bushing & pinion gear. Then you can remove the main gear. Go back to pg 1, Keith's (handy2's) photos show that step by step process in reverse. Also see Fred's post regarding the key on pg 2. 
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Mark A on May 07, 2019, 02:54:07 PM
Quote from: Pejay on August 03, 2018, 08:51:46 PM
Okay guys another question. Is there supposed to be a filter or wad of something inside the stem on the main gear where the handle screws into? I dislodged "stuff" when cleaning the small opening ( oil port?) on the stem.
Thanks

Hi Pejay and All,
Brand new member here and from what I have read it looks like a fantastic resource. I am in the process of disassembling, cleaning, lubing and reassembling 3 vintage Garcia Mitchell 300's from the early and mid 1960's I bought when I was a kid. In my research I learned that often times there was a small piece of cotton tucked down inside the Main Gear Shaft by the little hole. It can be left out when reassembling and it is suggested to push a little grease down the shaft until it starts to come out the hole. That is what I did and all works great.
I now have some Mitchel 306's to do and this particular forum looks like it will be of very valuable help. Thanks To All.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Mark A on May 07, 2019, 02:57:16 PM
Just as a note, another great resource for Garcia Mitchell and Mitchell reels, rods and other items made by them is  The Mitchell Reel Museum  (mitchellreelmuseum.com)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: happyhooker on May 08, 2019, 02:15:55 AM
Welcome, Mark, from Minnesota USA.  Lotsa folks here like Mitchells.  And, yes, the Museum site is a nice resource.

Frank
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 11, 2021, 11:07:08 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on November 19, 2018, 05:49:15 AM
Lightly tap the rotor off towards the front. Then remove the keyway pin, bushing & pinion gear. Then you can remove the main gear. Go back to pg 1, Keith's (handy2's) photos show that step by step process in reverse. Also see Fred's post regarding the key on pg 2. 

Hello! I am a new member who found this site through searching information about servicing a Mitchell 306. I saw it's been a few years since the last post was placed on this thread. I hope this gets read....

Anyways, I just inherited a Mitchell 306 from 70's. When I received it, a mono line was eaten under the rotor into the little space. I managed to coax it out. I do not think i broke it but the rotor feels terrible heavy when spinned. While I tried to disassemble it, I could not remove the rotor after removing the main shaft and the plastic cover. It feels firmly stuck. Could anyone recommend me how to go about removing rotor when stuck?

Thank you so much and happy holidays, folks. -Kaz
Happy 
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on December 11, 2021, 11:50:11 PM
Hi Kaz —

If you have removed the plastic round rotor nut with a penny — the rotor should come off.

If it is stuck — just apply a few taps on the backside of the rotor — which should loosen it up so it will come forward off of the pinion.

If it is really stuck badly — it may also require a little penetrating oil to drop around the Pinion/Rotor connection — then it will come loose.

There is also a tiny Drive "key" in the side of the pinion housing.  Don't lose this — it will spoil your day.   But if you do — no worries — I have plenty.

Oftentimes — 306, 302 type Mitchells have been used in the salt — and could be either salt encrusted, rusted, or fused.

If so, you may need a pinion bearing.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 12, 2021, 02:50:15 AM
Thank you Fred for your quick response. I tried the "few taps" but did not work for me. I have a case of it is really stuck badly. I will try the penetrating oil! Thanks.



Quote from: foakes on December 11, 2021, 11:50:11 PM
Hi Kaz —

If you have removed the plastic round rotor nut with a penny — the rotor should come off.

If it is stuck — just apply a few taps on the backside of the rotor — which should loosen it up so it will come forward off of the pinion.

If it is really stuck badly — it may also require a little penetrating oil to drop around the Pinion/Rotor connection — then it will come loose.

There is also a tiny Drive "key" in the side of the pinion housing.  Don't lose this — it will spoil your day.   But if you do — no worries — I have plenty.

Oftentimes — 306, 302 type Mitchells have been used in the salt — and could be either salt encrusted, rusted, or fused.

If so, you may need a pinion bearing.

Best,

Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 27, 2021, 06:56:53 AM
Thank you Fred again. It was really tough to remove rotor and pinion gear. With penetrating oil and careful use of rubber mallet did the trick. I managed to clean, grease/oil, and reassemble my 306. Putting back the pinion gear was not easy. I use some oil to lubricate the casing's outside and managed it. Thanks again for this forum!

The remaining question I have is on drag. The drag clicker is disengaged and I am having a hard time to reset the little wire spring to get the clicker working again. I'd appreciate it if anyone could share a trick to set it up without a special tool (which obviously I do not have)?

Thank you again! -Kaz
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: mo65 on December 27, 2021, 04:49:10 PM
Quote from: okazu on December 27, 2021, 06:56:53 AM
The remaining question I have is on drag. The drag clicker is disengaged and I am having a hard time to reset the little wire spring to get the clicker working again. I'd appreciate it if anyone could share a trick to set it up without a special tool (which obviously I do not have)?

   Here is a photo of the drag click spring in place...hope this helps. 8)

Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 27, 2021, 08:32:06 PM
Thank you Sensei mo65. Mine looks a little different and when I put the spool back, it does not latch so no drag clicking sound. I tried to pry the spring a little to see if I could make the clicker spring engage but could not work it out so far. Any insights from you experts are greatly appreciated! -Kaz
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: mo65 on December 27, 2021, 09:52:48 PM
   Look at the area of the spring I've circled in yellow...now go back and look at the photo I posted...I think you'll know what to do. 8)
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 27, 2021, 10:21:56 PM
Thank you for answering my newbie question, Mr. mo65. I was not confident to alter a part like that. A simple application of my radio pench solved my issue..... With your help, I completed my maintenance project on 306. Thank you so much. Now to Garcia Mitchell 622 and Daiwa AG1305XB. Happy holidays to you all. -Kaz
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: mo65 on December 27, 2021, 10:32:54 PM
Quote from: okazu on December 27, 2021, 10:21:56 PM
Thank you for answering my newbie question, Mr. mo65.

   Glad I could help!
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Midway Tommy on December 28, 2021, 04:47:43 AM
Quote from: okazu on December 27, 2021, 08:32:06 PM
Thank you Sensei mo65. Mine looks a little different and when I put the spool back, it does not latch so no drag clicking sound. I tried to pry the spring a little to see if I could make the clicker spring engage but could not work it out so far. Any insights from you experts are greatly appreciated! -Kaz


Mike gave you great advice. It looks to me like someone purposely bent your spring so that it would not click. Not sure why someone would do that but that spring strap metal is fairly stiff and difficult to bend into that configuration unless it was on purpose. .   
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: foakes on December 28, 2021, 05:07:07 AM
Might be best to install a new spring so that the audible clicker works.

If you would like one — just let me know and I will send one to you at no charge.

Those springs are hard to get back into the proper orientation without weakening or breaking them.

Best, Fred
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: cmdrzog on December 28, 2021, 12:20:20 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on December 28, 2021, 04:47:43 AM
Quote from: okazu on December 27, 2021, 08:32:06 PM
Thank you Sensei mo65. Mine looks a little different and when I put the spool back, it does not latch so no drag clicking sound. I tried to pry the spring a little to see if I could make the clicker spring engage but could not work it out so far. Any insights from you experts are greatly appreciated! -Kaz


Mike gave you great advice. It looks to me like someone purposely bent your spring so that it would not click. Not sure why someone would do that but that spring strap metal is fairly stiff and difficult to bend into that configuration unless it was on purpose. .   

Clickers were silenced by beach guys so at  night or  a foggy morning  others on the beach  did not know that you were catching and crowd you off the fish
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Midway Tommy on December 28, 2021, 05:12:53 PM
Quote from: cmdrzog on December 28, 2021, 12:20:20 PM
Quote from: Midway Tommy on December 28, 2021, 04:47:43 AM
Quote from: okazu on December 27, 2021, 08:32:06 PM
Thank you Sensei mo65. Mine looks a little different and when I put the spool back, it does not latch so no drag clicking sound. I tried to pry the spring a little to see if I could make the clicker spring engage but could not work it out so far. Any insights from you experts are greatly appreciated! -Kaz


Mike gave you great advice. It looks to me like someone purposely bent your spring so that it would not click. Not sure why someone would do that but that spring strap metal is fairly stiff and difficult to bend into that configuration unless it was on purpose. .   

Clickers were silenced by beach guys so at  night or  a foggy morning  others on the beach  did not know that you were catching and crowd you off the fish

A Concealed Carry would have put an end to that nonsense pretty quickly. :D   ;D
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: Gfish on December 28, 2021, 05:28:01 PM
Interesting. Sounds plausible. I was wonderin why silence the drag, I'd wanna know it was workin.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: cmdrzog on December 28, 2021, 06:46:42 PM

A Concealed Carry would have put an end to that nonsense pretty quickly.


Part of the game was dragging a sack of fish at dawn past the  clueless...  killing them might have been a little much.
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: okazu on December 28, 2021, 06:54:31 PM
Thank you Tommy Fred, and cmdrzog!

The bent looked so clean so I imagined the spring was originally manufactured that way. Apparently not!

I know what I have was purchased in FL in 70's by a friend of mine who gave this to me. He told me of catching
a nice halie on surf with it so may be it was a surf-mod. Will check in with him though not sure if he remembers...

Thank you again! -Kaz
Title: Re: Garcia Mitchell 306 Assembly Help
Post by: handi2 on April 17, 2022, 04:10:02 AM
The spring is broken not bent..!