Outer rings not flush on side plates

[Tate]

Hey guys,

Anyone have this problem where the outside rings don't fit flush on the side plates?  I'm refurbishing a very clean vintage Penn 4/0 - came in the box with the tools etc.  I thought I only had to replace the old drags and clean it up and flip it for a good margin, but The outside side ring on the handle side will not set flush.  There is a 1-2mm gap on one side.  I had the same issue with a 6/0 last week which I still have.  I'm guessing that these parts were replaced maybe and due to the many varieties over the years and they just don't match up.  There are minor differences in the tolerances and these things just happen.  I think I have to take some of the side ring or the side plate off to make it fit better.   I tried to dremel some of the side ring, but I need a different bit I think as I made no progress on it.  I think it's just cosmetic and not a big deal, but I like reels to be 100% right if my name is on it.

Anyone have this issue and were you able to correct it?

Thanks
Tate

[Dominick]

Post a picture so we can see the problem.  Usually some light file work will allow the ring to set in place.  Dominick

[Swami805]

I usually run a file around the side plate, doesn't take much most of the time. Go easy so you don't take too much. For some reason the plates swell a little over time

[Tate]

I think I will be filing soon.  Here are some pics

Thanks!

Tate

[Tate]

One more.  I know the ring is not aligned.  I just set it there for the pic.  I've tried to align it many ways.

[Maxed Out]

Looks like a 1950's sideplate according to location of the logo being below the shift lever. Newer rings for any senators will not fit reels from that era.

[alantani]

not much of a choice.  chucking it up on a lathe of some sort and turning it down might be your option, besides just leaving it be.   

[Tate]

I forgot to mention.  The left side plate and ring fit nicely.  I'm guessing this reel had at least one ring replaced with the wrong part number.  I will be modifying this one soon.

[Tate]

That was easier than I thought.  Light file and a little sliding a small chisel around the perimeter of the side plate fixed it.  Perfectly flush rings to side plates and no visible tool marks.

Thanks
Tate