Adjusting Internal Centrifugal Break

[grid]

I just hate to get a particular type of tech on the other end of the line when I call about tools, firearms, fishing, etc

I apologize and will get back to the point.  I have an Abu Garcia C3 and C4 reel.  My questions are:

1. How do you know when you might have to adjust the internal centrifugal break?

2. How should this be done?

Thanks!

[Guest the_muddy_man]

It seems to go by how well your thumb can control the reel speed per weight of the lure you are throwing If your new at it like me 4 to 6 are defintely needed. I was taught that you just dont adjust one at a time you should adjust 2 at a time for balance.

 You turn the knurled screw/knobs on the handle side of the reel and the side plate comes off and you push the little platic breaks twoards the center of the reel til they click then they are disengages. You should click off the one directly oppisite from it also. Hope this helps

Look at Rell Mechs article (in the article section of the Home Page) on how to set up a baitcasting reel

[grid]

Another thought:  How is adjusting the cetrifugal breaks any different than adjusting the mechanical break knob located by the cranking handle?

[.ghoti.]

The centrifugal brakes control spool speed at the beginning of the cast when rotation is the fastest. As the spool slows, the effect of the brakes is reduced. By about halfway through the cast, the centrifugal brakes are doing nothing. The cast control knob, the one by the crank, applies friction during the entire cast.

Start off with four brakes on. They're on when in the out position. Space them equally. I've always been told to space the brakes evenly, but I'm not sure that it really makes much difference. Adjust the cast control knob by first loosening it enough that you can wiggle the spool back and forth with your thumb. Slowly tighten the knob while wiggling the spool. Stop when it will no longer move sideways. Now tighten it just a tiny bit more. Make a very gentle cast, using your thumb on the spool. If it seems too loose tighten the knob a tiny bit more. Repeat, making very small adjustments,  until you get it where you like it.

Leave it like that for a while. Once you get used to this, you can try going down to three brakes, or even less. Practice is the key to success. By this time next year you'll be casting like an old pro.

Cheers,

GK

[Guest the_muddy_man]

Thanks Ghoti I didn't want to give only my limited knowledge and experince

[dodgeguy]

older abu round reels only had 2 brake pins.they did come with a heavier set of weights to adjust them.

[.ghoti.]

Dodgeguy, thanks for the correction. For some dumb arse reason I had a picture of my JM reel in mind when i was typing my reply.

Cheers,

GK