Need replacement handle for SLX MGL

[LCG]

I was out bank fishing this morning and slipped on the muddy bank, landing on my JDM Shimano SLX MGL 71HG.

 

As a result, the reel handle is bent to the point I can't reel in line. Not sure if anything else is damaged yet, but don't think so. I went home and swapped out the handle with one from my Curado K and it seems to retrieve fine and drag is working fine. 

 

So, other than being full of mud and some hurt pride, the reel seems OK. But in need of a replacement handle. I know I can call Shimano (Canada) and order direct. But, wondering if there might be other options. Not sure where to look or what the cost would be. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. 

[BrianMDTX]

First thing I’d do is remove it from the reel and remove the handles. Take two Channelocks or Vice Grips and wrap the jaws in masking tape to prevent gouges and scratches, and grasp each end and straighten them out. Just use consistent force and bend them back straight slowly. 

[LCG]

1 hour ago, BrianMDTX said:

First thing I’d do is remove it from the reel and remove the handles. Take two Channelocks or Vice Grips and wrap the jaws in masking tape to prevent gouges and scratches, and grasp each end and straighten them out. Just use consistent force and bend them back straight slowly. 

Thank you so much for your advice. I took two pliers wrapped in electrical tape and was able to straighten out the handle, not perfect but pretty close. 

 

I ended up scratching the handle a bit when the pliers slipped, but no big deal. Really appreciate your help. Thank you. 

[BrianMDTX]

That’s way better. If you have access to a vise, you could probably get it back to 99%. 
 

But that’ll fish! 

[mrpao]

If you cant straighten it out, your best bet is to just order one from shimano.

You can probably order any handle you like, since all 200 size and smaller are interchangeable. Just make sure your handle nut cap fits it. Or order a new one with the handle.

[LCG]

4 hours ago, mrpao said:

If you cant straighten it out, your best bet is to just order one from shimano.

You can probably order any handle you like, since all 200 size and smaller are interchangeable. Just make sure your handle nut cap fits it. Or order a new one with the handle.

I did find the replacement handle through Shimano Canada, it's about $50 all in, so I will probably order it as my OCD will focus on it :). But at least it's functional for now. Love this forum for all the knowledge sharing. 

[ubfishy]

H2O XPRESS Shimano Replacement Handle | Academy

[NOC 1]

21 hours ago, LCG said:

I did find the replacement handle through Shimano Canada, it's about $50 all in, so I will probably order it as my OCD will focus on it :). But at least it's functional for now. Love this forum for all the knowledge sharing. 

On an SLX I think I would just go for a $20 e-bay handle. I doubt you would ever know the difference.

[bulldog1935]

SDScustom on ebay has been slow shipping from Ukraine - the mail rate seems to be picking up lately, 2-3 weeks - and prices and quality are good.  

 

Here are their EVA knobs on my stock Lew's TP handle.  

I like these a lot better than Lew's paddles.  

 

[LCG]

Thanks for the ebay tips @NOC 1 and @bulldog1935. I already ordered the replacement from Shimano Canada.

 

I like the stock handle fine and if I ever sell it, it's probably best to keep it stock. Not that I plan on selling it anytime soon, but just in case.

 

Thanks for the suggestions, always appreciate helpful advice. 

[Michigander]

You did the right thing. Disassemble and bend it back!