Sand in Reel

[FlyFishinYakr]

Originally Posted by jorluivil

Shimano Cardiff 400A. This thing has so many moving parts, glad I saved the reel diagram or I'd never be able to put it back together.

When I worked @ a tackle shop we used a mix (1 to 1) of Mineral Spirits , Acetone and Distilled water (outside or in a well ventalated area with gloves & a ventilator & ABSOLUTELY NO SMOKING!!!!!!!!!) or find a degreaser, strip all old gear grease off all gears and bearings and housing. Also break down drag washers and thoroughly clean then re-grease (if neccessary).

If you use the above method, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, be EXTREMELY careful using these chemicals and it's not necessary to mix a big batch of the cleansing solution (8oz. should be enough).

Re-build dry (just to see if all parts work) if ok, thoroughly re-grease all gears and oil all bearings. (make sure to grease dog gears.) Don't forget to oil handle spindles and bail rollers.

If the schematic for the reel looks too daunting, send it out to shimano and let them do it. Have heard nothing but good things about their service over the years (also fast turn around).

Hope this helps.

FFY