Current model reels vs. reels from 20 yrs ago

[ScottF]

All I can say is "WOW".  I've recently gotten back into fishing and the reels on the market today seem to be so much smoother than the ones I have from 20 yrs ago.  I took mine apart and relubed them.  They still don't spin as well as even the cheaper models on the market today.  

I'm wondering if it is worth it to take my reels in to get serviced and do a proper cleaning and lube.  Here is what I have:

Abu Garcia 521 Flipping

Abu Garcia 4500C and 4500CB

Abu Garcia Power4

Quantum 1310MG (two of them)

Daiwa PMA33S

Daiwa PMA10S

I have a feeling they will all run better with a proper cleaning and lube.  But, I wonder if they will ever feel as smooth as the decent reels on the market today.  

After my attempt at cleaning, my reels are definitely quieter and cast ok.  But, none are really smooth enough for pitching.  Replacing all with $100 - 170 reels could be quite an outlay.  I want to eventually have 3-4 rod/reel setups (worm, crankbait, spinner bait and maybe finesse).

Suggestions?

[Jeff H]

Definitely consider newer reels.  Absolutely nothing wrong with fishing what you have while you add in new ones.  Just buy 1 or 2 new reels a yr and get decent ones, stay away from the cheap stuff.  Plenty of good reels to be had around $100 +/-   I just upgraded my entire line over the last year as all my stuff was at least 12-14 yrs old.  Some of those I still plan to use after Reel Mechanic breathed new life into them.

[Catt]

You could send your reels to Reel Mechanic and have him upgrade the bearings; my reels are 10-12 years and I have no problems.

[flechero]

I'll take the Power 4 since it's old and outdated!  

I can really only speak to the Abu 4600's & 5500's.  The heavier and deeper spools are not well suited for real light baits but for normal weights, they still work well.  They may not "spin" as well but once you set the brakes for casting, they all spin about the same.  Sure there are differences, but many of us still use some of the older reels, not because we can't afford to switch, but because they work very well/as well, for certain applications.

As to the smooth aspect... it's very nice but it doesn't account for any additional fish in the boat.  

[Raul]

I'll take the Power 4 since it's old and outdated!

but many of us still use some of the older reels, not because we can't afford to switch, but because they work very well/as well, for certain applications.

X2.

[ScottF]

I'm thinking a new reel is definitely needed for my worm rod.  I need to be able to smoothly pitch and cast.  Of course, once I use the new reel, I'll want new ones on my other rods too.  LOL  

[Raul]

I'm thinking a new reel is definitely needed for my worm rod. I need to be able to smoothly pitch and cast. Of course, once I use the new reel, I'll want new ones on my other rods too. LOL

Then you need a Chronarch 50/51 Mg.

[NBR]

I have several reels of the same vintage and they serve me very well. They don't have bearings in places I consider unnecessary like handle grips so they are not as smooth but still effective. I have 2 older Daiwa's and 2 Quantums that I like as well as a realtively new Curado.

New would be nice but I'm not going to lay out $400 to $800 to replace something that works just fine.

[ScottF]

I picked up a Shimano Citica 100DSV at lunch time.  It will be going on my dedicated worm rod.