OK:

I got the reel in the mail yesterday. It feels heavier and tougher than a standard c3. I can't wait to heave some jigs with it. Anyway, when I try to remove the sideplate screw (the one closest push button release) it feels like it has a spring inside.

Is this normal?

Tightlines,

Stroth

if it the 3 screws that remove the side plate then yes its normal . as opposed to the 1 in the center which centers the spool . this is all on the side with the push button release .

Good choice in reels !

Stroth -

Where'd you git it?

-WW

Yes - that's normal and it's OK. Plus the reel is more substantial than a C3. It has the Brass side plates instead of the aluminum... Great reel!

I found a guy on-line selling one out of florida for 130.00. I took a chance and I think it worked out. The reel is very slightly used.

All of the other side-plate screws seem normal, but this one on the top closest to the push-button seems to have that spring. I guess it is ok.

I've spent literally hours researching abus. Thanks Big Dave!!!! (he's forgotten more than I'll ever know). Now I want to explore "tricking" it out. I know I don't NEED ceramics or smoothies, but man they'd be cool.

Tightlines,


Stroth

get the xtreme smoothies for around $8 -$9 . worth the price all 7 of my abus have them and they are better than the stock drags . If youve never casted a conventional before cast it as is and you can trick it out after you become comfortable . If you already can cast one then tell me to shut up . but I wont !

I'm no Big Dave or Ron, but I can cast ok. I think I want the smoothies, but I'm not sure about the ceramics yet. I'm picturing myself in a prime fishin' spot birds breaking around me and I'm picking a backlash out :-)

Is it hard to install the smoothies? Are there any local shops that do it?

check with Mike at M&Ds . he carries them and they are easy enough to change yourself after the first time you see it done . Ceramics are expensive too expensive and fragile for me . I have stock and abec 7 in my reels and they work fine . then again I dont cast too far ( no ron or dave ) .

I or someone here can give you a quick how too if you want . Im not local so I cant show you how to change them .

Right now I have a meeting to go to . Ill check in later see how it is going .

Stroth I never took a conventional apart in my life before. I was bored so I took my 7000 Big Game cl apart, and put the smoothies in my self it was relatively easy. Just pile the old washers up as you take them out. When you put it back together replace the drag washer with smoothies as you go.

You can't go wrong with ABEC 7 stainless.

Usually $15 a pair or something like that, vs. $40 a pair for ceramics.

Key is to keep 'em cleaned and lubed.

-WW

awesome..

I'll have to give M&D's a call. I'm not at all handy with reels. Those damn small parts.

I still have a Penn 6500 that I was going to make bail less.

Aren't the stock bearings in an ABU, ABECS anyway?????