Reel Repair by Alan Tani

I've got these two older 49s apart and the main gears appear to be stainless? Or maybe plated in something shiny? I googled-searched it as best I could and found nothing on the matter.........

These reels look like they are screaming for a "double-dog" set-up, anyone done one of these yet?

The earliest 49s did have steel main gears. If yours are in good shape, you've got something wort keeping, although the newer gears are a bit smoother.

Quote from: akfish on January 31, 2013, 09:01:21 PM

The earliest 49s did have steel main gears. If yours are in good shape, you've got something wort keeping,

Does that mean you recommend Joel DOESN'T double dog his reels?

these old main gears are plain steel.  they are much harder than the maganese bronze alloy used commonly now, but they will rust.  if they are in good shape, you scored!

Joel,

If you want to save one of your reels instead of parting it out I have a 49 right side plate (handle side) you can have. It is dirty but seem to be in very good condition.  Let me know.

John

PS. just noticed a small chip but it will be covered by the ring.

Wow, that gear is in really good shape.  That's a rare find.  Not sure about it being stainless, but I have seen some new steel gears from Penn's new-old stock that someone had and it looked the same.

wow! 

a stainless steel gear sleeve would go great right in here!!!!

Quote from: Joel.B on February 01, 2013, 05:30:53 PM

Do these metal spools fit any of the other reels? 149 etc?

Yes, they also fit the 149.

No!
Those are not that rare, the darker gears are also steel, if I remember right they have a protective coat.
49's are nice reels, to bad they don't hold much value. If the reel is in excellent shape, you could probably get $60, if in good shape, you'll get close to its name ($49). I've seen some go for as little as $25 .

The parts look nice, you shouldn't have any problems selling them. Also, good idea breaking it down, you should get double than if it was sold as a complete reel. Good luck!