They're good reels. The 1986 date on the reel would be the copyright date and would be present on all reels of that same model and version until they changed the model in some way.
I hav a Zebco one and can't get the spinner head off. Tried enough force and fear it will strip the gears. Tried penetrating oil and no luck. Any ideas for me?
Try heat. I'd try touching a soldering iron to the center of the spinner head until it's good and hot (I wouldn't use a propane torch because you don't want to melt the line brake). If that doesn't work, try again and then put the reel in the freezer and see of that will break the corrosion that's causing it to seize-up. I hope this helps!
Not *too* hot. You don't want to melt the lexan spindle or pick-up pin blocks. You might try freezing first and see if that does the trick without need for heat
I was just working on a couple of 33 classic reels. One was the ball bearing with the clicker and on/off anti reverse, while the other was a basic direct drive anti reverse. The spool on the ball bearing 33 was stuck to the spool post like yours was in this video. I had to twist it off with channel lock pliers. The drag doesn't work if the spool is stuck. I wound up switching the spools from the two reels. That seemed to work OK, but the one with the stuck spool was still pretty tight. Do you think the reels with those plastic frames expand over the years, or does the metal spool shink?
I think it's the "lexan" / plastic spindle on the frame that is swelling. It seems like I've heard others say that on some of the reel forums over the years. I've tried sanding the spool as well as reaming the spool. Both work, but I think I prefer to ream the spool with the rotary tool which allows me to get a more even removal of material.
My pleasure. Unfortunately, I don't have that part. I've been pretty fortunate in that most of the reels I've purchased ended up being fully repairable, so I haven't accumulated many parts reels.
I've been pretty fortunate in that most of the reels I've purchased ended up being fully repairable, so I haven't accumulated many parts. There is a Facebook Group called "Zebco Shop & Swamp". You might inquire there. Those guys have rooms full of parts, so I think there's a good chance you could find the parts you need there.
Looks like we have similar channels. I Subscribed. I have the same reel but mines only good for parts MAYBE. Would love to find another one, can use 15-20 lb. line on thoes things. Good content, Thanks
