How to Service Penn Reels

How to Service Penn Reels

All images by Steve Byrne

The Penn Fishing Tackle Manufacturing Company was established in 1932. Penn reels quickly grabbed a large share of the reel market and developed a reputation for quality that endures today. Your Penn reel will provide you with years of trouble-free service, if you follow some basic maintenance on a regular schedule.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Bucket Sponge Soap Water Screwdriver Penn gear lube Penn drag washers
  • Bucket
  • Sponge
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Screwdriver
  • Penn gear lube
  • Penn drag washers
Step 1
Get the salt off.
Get the salt off.
Salt is your reel's number-one enemy. After every fishing trip, wipe down your reels with a soapy sponge and rinse with a gentle spray. This simple process will go a long way toward maintaining the performance of your fishing reels.
Step 2
Replace drag washers annually.
Replace drag washers annually.
Your drag system is the series of alternating fiber and steel washers on top of the spool. Replace the fiber drag washers annually by removing the spool from the reel and using a standard screwdriver to pop off the clip that holds the drag in place. Note the order of the washers, and replace them with new ones, securing the clip after the washers are reinserted on top of the spool.
Step 3
A reel opened up for service
A reel opened up for service
Lubricate the gears every year. Too much lubricant is just as bad as too little. A drop of Penn Lubricant on the main gear and on the shaft is all that is needed. Too much lube attracts and holds dirt and grime. To access the gear case, remove the Phillips head screws from the corners of the reel housing.

Tips & Warnings

 
Before washing and rinsing your reel, tighten the drag to keep water out. After washing, loosen the drag so your washers retain their original thickness.
 
Never apply lube to your drag washers. They are to be used dry. Do not use WD-40 for reel lubrication. It cleans well, but does not lubricate.
 
Never apply lube to your drag washers. They are to be used dry.
 
Do not use WD-40 for reel lubrication. It cleans well, but does not lubricate.

Article Written By Stephen Byrne

Stephen Byrne is a freelance writer with published articles in "Nor'East Saltwater," "Sportfishing" magazine, "Pacific Coast Sportfishing" and "Salt Water Sportsman." As a fishing charter captain, he was also interviewed for a feature in "Field and Stream." Byrne studied environmental science at the State University of New York at Delhi.

Write for Trails.com
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