Thoughtful help for new guys

[Indyfisher]

I see a lot of posts about carbon drags and greasing them as a start for first reel mods and tuning. Just keep in mind those metal washers are just as important. Make sure they are flat and free of any spots that hinder flat and smooth contact. Then you will feel the perfection of a true smooth drag system.

[Bill B]

Good point Indy....Thanks   Bill

[foakes]

Great point, Richard --

Something else to consider in certain instances --

When installing CFs.

If putting together a reel that has a SS sleeve -- and I might be concerned about the SS washers scoring the sleeve -- I flat surface sand new brass washers down to dead flat -- up to 400 grit -- then smooth off any burrs -- and steel wool with "0000".

They work plenty good if greased with Cal's -- and under a heavy lift with a big fish -- the sleeve will not become gouged.

Maybe not recommended -- but plenty of my clients in SoCal or Mexico have had very good results -- particularly when an overly aggressive deck hand or newbie tightens the drag down close to full lock so he can get the fish in faster.

Just depends on the application, angler, and fish targeted.

Best,

Fred

[Indyfisher]

I fish a lot of 6500 and 7000 ambassadeur reels trolling and catfishing. Had a friend buy a couple used 6500c off that one site. He just threw in some new fibers without looking at anything else and complained about jerky, uneven drag like the normal Garcia washers are famous for. I opened his reel to immediately find the top drag plate lumped with corrosion spots. I've learned through experience most all used Garcia reels have this issue. Sanded them flat to save him a few bucks and he says it's like a whole different reel. Just think a lot of new guys throw everything in and expect amazing results without thinking about the importance of everything as a whole.

[Indyfisher]

Great point about the sleeves Fred.
I'm Richard, my son's names are my Mail. Love all your knowledge and input Fred. Your a classy gentleman.

[theswimmer]

Great point, Richard --

Something else to consider in certain instances --

When installing CFs.

If putting together a reel that has a SS sleeve -- and I might be concerned about the SS washers scoring the sleeve -- I flat surface sand new brass washers down to dead flat -- up to 400 grit -- then smooth off any burrs -- and steel wool with "0000".

They work plenty good if greased with Cal's -- and under a heavy lift with a big fish -- the sleeve will not become gouged.

Maybe not recommended -- but plenty of my clients in SoCal or Mexico have had very good results -- particularly when an overly aggressive deck hand or newbie tightens the drag down close to full lock so he can get the fish in faster.

Just depends on the application, angler, and fish targeted.

Best,

Fred

Totally agree Fred.
Prepping the metal components is as critical as any other part of the drag system.
Best,
JT