Handle and Gears
The Cardinal 357 uses a stainless steel and plastic handle for the cast and spin/reel mechanism. Abu Garcia part number 16977 is the replacement handle for the model. Parts 16975 and 16877 are the stainless gears and sprockets that provide the spin ratio and mechanical advantage for the cast, spin and reel functions. The handle attaches into part 16877 to provide the means to work the gears.
Drag Mechanism
The drag unit is a nine-piece series of washers and wire bails set into the spool. The complete drag mechanism is part number 16978. The drag mechanism is housed into the spool shell, which is part number 970310. The spool shell is, in turn, attached to the gears and handles via part numbers 16974 and 16578, a stainless steel arm and screw designed to complement the spool housing.
Reel Body
The Cardinal 357 body is made of aluminum and houses the spool, fishing line and drag mechanism. The main body part in gray is number 17028. The body housing plate is part number 17030 (in gray). A set of three proprietary screws, parts number 16914, attach the plate onto the body, surrounding the spool and fishing line.
Article Written By Eric Cedric
A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.
