Reel Repair by Alan Tani

I've browsed here previously, but never made an account, figured it was time. I got this Mitchell 408 in today, pretty good shape too! It came with the original paperwork and 4 spools in plastic cases. Looking forward to cleaning it up and getting it back on the water. I've worked on some old bait casters before but this will be my first spinning reel! Thanks for letting me come hang out

Welcome aboard!

The Mitchell 408/409's are excellent ultralight high speed spinning reels.

Easy to work on, and you have the schematic right there in the owners manual.

The only two things to know are —-

There is a hidden tiny outer screw that holds the pinion bearing assembly in place that must be removed.

And #2, never unscrew the pinion bearing assembly —- just drop it in some lacquer thinner, or similar for awhile —- then blow it out and apply a few drops of ReelX or a similar synthetic oil.

If you unscrew the pinion assembly —- 28 TINY ball bearings will decide to go off on their own.  They can be reinstalled —- but the way they initially were broken in will not be possible to replicate.

One of my favorite trout reels.

Best Regards, Fred

Thanks Fred! I found (literally for free) a Wright and McGill trailmaster. I'm going to toss this on it and take it out!

Should be a great combo balance-wise and looks-wise!

Best, Fred

That is a nice 408!

There appears to be some corrosion on the bail wire.  That should be smoothed out or the bail replaced to prevent a line separation.

Best, Fred

That's a nice-looking 408. When you get around to servicing the reel, be sure to check the main and pinion gears closely for wear.

I picked one up a few years back that appeared to be in working order, but once I opened it up, I noticed several brass teeth on the main gear were worn down. They would engage with the pinion gear under no-load conditions, but they'd slip or fail under pressure. I ended up having to replace the main gear, though the pinion was still fine.

Also, as Fred noted, make sure the bail wire is smooth; if not, it will need to be replaced.