Question About Spool tension adjustment knob

[Guest muddy]

Hey Fellas( Especially ReelMech) on another forum I go to there was this post about using the tension adjustment knod( Like you advised in Reel 101 , Dave)

This adjustment is a very good way to learn how to use a bait caster and is effective in keeping back lashes down.

However, it is actually damaging your reel. By tightening the spool tension knob you are compressing the spool ends between two bushings and over time this wears pits in the bushings and gouges the spool ends. Effectively robbing the reel of performance. These bushings are replaceable and inexpensive, however the spool is not inexpensive.

After leaning how to cast a bait caster well with out back lashes I recommend backing the spool tension knob out until there is side to side play in the reel. Then turn it back in until this play just stops. From there stick with the casting brakes, start with them all on, and slowly turn the off as your casting improves.  

Whats up with this, True?

[dodgeguy]

it does cause wear on the internals somewhat.i've learned to cast with no spool tension and use just the brake and my thumb.you will cast furthur doing this and put less wear on your reel.a lot of times the washer in the tension knob will pit and make noise casting.a lot of reels you can flip it over oil it up and reuse.

[.RM.]

  Quote

However, it is actually damaging your reel. By tightening the spool tension knob you are compressing the spool ends between two bushings and over time this wears pits in the bushings and gouges the spool ends. Effectively robbing the reel of performance. These bushings are replaceable and inexpensive, however the spool is not inexpensive.

Yes it is called the free spool adjustment (the rate of spin), or lateral play adjustment. The "Bushings" are actually shims. Yes they dimple as they should when the free spool and lateral play rate is adjusted properly. The shims don't IMPO gouge the spool shaft ends, the ends have a slight edge bevel and normally are almost flat. Both of these parts should be replaced at each major servicing. I automatically change the shims out, and polish spool shafts and ends each time a reel comes to me for service...As far as these robbing the reels performance, IMPO no it isn't if the reel is lubed the right way there is one drop of quality reel oil added to each new shim, this I have found keeps the shaft ends and shims lubricated just fine.

  Quote

After leaning how to cast a bait caster well with out back lashes I recommend backing the spool tension knob out until there is side to side play in the reel. Then turn it back in until this play just stops. From there stick with the casting brakes, start with them all on, and slowly turn the off as your casting improves.  

This sounds like someone that is afraid to let the bearing shims do their job.

When I get a reel to service and break it down. I always turn all the brakes off on the spool, this is zero, then when I re-assemble the reel, I leave the spool brakes off and set the cast control cap to what the factory calls 0 (zero), no lateral play what so ever when the spool is in the casting mode. Now the reel is set to absolute zero settings. Now when I set up a reel I have my bait tied on and ready to go I simple hit the thumb bar and set the cast control to the settings I like, then set my spool brakes to the mag settings or number of blocks I like and I'm ready to go.

But there is always an adjustment of free spool rate, never just rely on the spool brakes for it all, that is not a balanced setup...

  Quote

What's up with this, True?

You wouldn't believe how many different ways to set up a baitcasting reel I have read. The way I describe in my article is the way I learned when training at Shimano®, and believe it or not the same way was spoken when I was training at Daiwa®.

Tell ya what, try my way and the other way and let us know what you think..

Tight Lines!!!!

[Guest muddy]

AH AH NOT ME DAVE, You have never steered me wrong and next year rather than just a lube i am sendng em all to Pflueger for major service

Thanks I will stick what with you taught me 8-)

[flechero]

  Quote

it is actually damaging your reel.

in the same sense that setting hook when fish bite will lead to dulled hooks, or if you continually drive your car, you'll wear out the tires.  

[senile1]

  Quote

AH AH NOT ME DAVE, You have never steered me wrong and next year rather than just a lube i am sendng em all to Pflueger for major service

Thanks I will stick what with you taught me 8-)

Amen to that, Muddy.  Dave's method is the way I was taught, and his explanation of it makes perfect sense.