As I'm headed to Block Island for at least the next few days, I figured I'd try and put this to bed since I won't be able to (easily) add any responses to this thread.


This is the big news as parts and self-repair have always been controversial:

If someone needs a handle, main gear, flyer, o-rings, or any other parts (including internals) they may contact Van Staal for purchase. Parts pricing is not posted on the Van Staal web page, but anyone may call Van Staal at 1-800-718-7335 to get parts and pricing information.

Van Staal does have schematics and will soon post them on their web site for those wishing to attempt their own repairs.

Again, repair away, avoid the service charge, and don't bother sending reels in if you don't want to. It's your choice.


Lastly, I have checked and re-checked with Van Staal, the service charge is $36.95 until further notice. The inaccurate info on the VS website has been changed to reflect that.

Since I'm sure there's still some doubt, this is what I'll do. Any owner of a SWE purchased Van Staal (including those purchased this upcoming holiday season), if the service charge changes before 2/1/07, will receive a $15 store credit to cover the cost increase. I can't predict the future and I don't know if or when a change may come so that's the date I'll go with.

Hopefully this will be definitive answers to any questions and also good news for those wishing to work on their own reels.

Great work Pete. This is why you are known for your customer service. Now lets just hope my wife/brother have already contacted you about my VS 200 that I am expecting for the holidays. :D :bl:

I wanted to add one more thing.

PLEASE be realistic about repairing your reel. Van Staal will sell parts but they are definitely fearful of people taking apart reels only to find it was more complicated then they anticipated. This is why they have been VERY reluctant to sell parts in the past and still are.

They do not wish to promote taking apart your own reel, but it is an option available to owners.

Basically please don't break your reels. :D I'll probably feel some heat for it if that happens.

If I don't own a van stall should I go ahead and order parts for one?
Good luck on the Island.

Thanks for the info.

good job helping to clear things up :uhuh:

good job helping to clear things up :uhuh:

It's still probably not that clear, lol. I tried.

The idea is to put time between service (or service itself) in the customer's hands so they can make the call as to what is best for the way they use their reel.

It is still recommended to have the reel serviced yearly if you regularly submerge the reel, but not required. Extend service intervals outwards from there.

If anyone has any questions about what works best for their reel or questions about the somewhat changed policies regarding service please email Craig Cantelmo from Van Staal at ccantelmo@vanstaal.com

Thanks.

Thanks Pete you have gone above and beyond this time, Thanks

I Should see you on the ferry tomorrow

Good luck on the Block Pete.

Recieved a second email today from Craig. Verifying that..

"Service is $36.95 and will remain at $36.95 until further notice.

Thank You,
Capt. Craig Cantelmo "