Penn 49 Question

[steelhead_killer]

I came across an Aluminum spool for my Penn 49.  I installed it and it rubs on the bridge.  Scott's instructions say that the pinion must be changed out at the same time, but I can't see how a different pinion is going to prevent the spools contact with the bridge.  The bridge is fully locked down and secure.  Ideas?  My original spool is the chromed brass unit that weighs 14 lbs empty. lol

Andy

[foakes]

I think the new pinion moves the spool slightly out from the bridge plate -- just a few mils is all that is needed.

This does not affect the pinion/main tooth contact -- the tail plate bearing will still adjust the spool for proper operation.

I may be wrong -- but that is my theory.

The experts will be along shortly.

Best,

Fred

[akfish]

When Penn introduced the aluminum spool, they also changed the bridge. The lower edge is beveled considerably so that it doesn't touch the spool. Of you have an older bridge, you can fix the problem by filing down the edge. This takes a little while but is worth it: The aluminum spool is much, much better than its predecessors.

[Keta]

FILE!!!!!

2 minutes on my bench sander.

[alantani]

the first thing i'd do is change out the bushings and see if that helps.  you have a 26-60 and a 40-60.  i have a bunch of new 40-60's, but not the 26-60's.  i can send you some old ones to try.  other guys here might have both in new condition, though. 

when the spool rubs like this, the bushings are the first thing to check. 

[foakes]

Got a couple of new ones, Andy --

26 & 40

If you still need these -- PM your full name and address.

Best,

Fred

[Alto Mare]

the first thing i'd do is change out the bushings and see if that helps.  you have a 26-60 and a 40-60.  i have a bunch of new 40-60's, but not the 26-60's.  i can send you some old ones to try.  other guys here might have both in new condition, though. 

when the spool rubs like this, the bushings are the first thing to check. 

Yup ! and some times that right side bushing is backed off a bit, make sure it's tight. Akfish is also correct with the inner side of the spool, the tolerance on the aluminum is much tighter.
Try the bushing first, if that doesn't do it, you will need to sand down the edge of the bridge a bit.

[steelhead_killer]

Before I go that route, is this the only way to tell if the bearings are bad or worn out?