Abu reel repair?

[muskie52]

The drags on 3 of my ABU's are shot (I have to crank them down with pliers in order for them to not slip easily) and would like to send them somewhere to get fixed. I know there are places in the midwest, but does anyone know of anyone local in PA that does repairs?

Thanks,
Tony

P.S. Two are 6500 C3's and one is a 6500 C4

[muskie24/7]

Tony, Try Allegheny reel service in Monroeville PA. The guys name is Dan. Hes been doing my reels for a few years now. Tell him I sent you! (Brian Gilmore) Hope this help you!

Brian

[Ivan]

We've had Abu and Shimano casting reels repaired at Tackle Unlimited in Clairton, PA.

[Red Childress]

There is a guy very near Chautauqua Lake (Bemis Point area) who did a few of mine before I started using the AC300's. He used to call his business "Ryan's Reel Repair" but that was in 2004.

[Rich W]

Tackle Unlimited, their just not in Clairton anymore. They are now on Rt 51 south in Jefferson Hills just before you over the hill into Elizabeth.
Very nice people
Rich W

[muskie52]

Thanks Guys! I'll be on the phone this weekend!

Tony

[NitroMusky]

it sounds like your drag washers are worn out. they are most likely felt which becomes permanantly compressed over time (this is why its reccommended to loosen the drag when not in use.)

I would HIGHLY reccommend the Carbontex washers-they are amazing. do NOT use the stock ones again, or you're asking for the same problems again. these are a common upgrade and readily available online. these have a higher holding power and infinitely better progression than felt. there are also Extreme Smoothies (exceptional progression for say walleye) but Carbontex have a higher holding power with still excellent progression.

that said, its a very simple repair/upgrade you can do yourself if so inclined (i did mine quite easily with never having opened a round reel). first one might take up to 45 minutes but 15-20 minutes once you gain confidence through that first one. a few people have have step by step pics and instructions online: search for Carbontex drag washer upgrade procedure (or similar). PM me if you have trouble finding them or have Qs.

[muskie52]

Thanks for the info Nitro! I think I'll give it a try myself and see how it goes with the Carbonex washers.

Tony