Buying Used Reels? Always Open her up before fishing

[Wewlad]

About 6 months ago, I lucked out on the purchase of a Calcutta 100GT TE for cheap at a local pawn shop. Covered in dirt and grime, I spent an extensive amount of time cleaning it up and making her look pretty. 

 

Took her fishing with no real problems, until I hooked into a few smallies and the drag began to act up on me. 

 

When I had enough time, I opened her up and sure enough, the drag washers were toast (practically glued to the Drive Gear) and the Drive gear was corroded to heck. 

 

Replacement parts just got in, so here it a comparison. 

 

 

 

Retrieve wasn't all that bad feeling however. Maybe when I drop this new one in, it will feel even better. 

 

Fixing her up tonight, i'll keep you all posted. 

[Darren.]

It'll be nice with the new parts!  

[Wewlad]

Any input on what could have caused this? 

 

This one is probably was manufactured early 2000's, however my Calcutta Conquest 50 is definitely older and it doesnt have any corrosion on the drive gear.

 

Saltwater fishing with no cleaning?

 

 

[webertime]

Did you get a new pinion gear as well?

[Wewlad]

I did not. the pinion gear appeared to be almost perfect. 

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Those black stains are from the old "dartanium" drag washers and probably some oxidation. You could actually polish up the old gear but it takes some doing. You can make them smooth if not pretty. Do yourself a favor and put in carbontex drag if you haven't. 

[Wewlad]

Thank you for the input Mike. I'll see what I can do with the old Drive gear.

 

I've gone ahead and replaced the drag washers in all my Calcuttas with Carbontex.

 

Have yet to fish them, but I am excited as to how the reels will perform with them.