50 year 0ld Penn 85 reel with wooden knob - take apart and service

[@tylerarns3997]

Sir I must thank you tremendously. I'm 31 years old, and I love Penn reels, especially the old ones. I picked up a No. 85 from a flea market for $7. Nobody wanted to even entertain it, according to the seller. I brought it home not knowing a thing about it, other than how to use it, and that it still worked. It was covered in oxidation and corrosion. I found your video, watched it. Did my assessment of my reel, and watched it again. My hat is off to you sir. I now have the replacement reel that belongs on my late grandfather's pole. Same model, and around the same age; now in 100% working and 75%-85% anesthetically pleasing. Now I can take this setup back out on the water like he would want me to do. Thank you sir!!!!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Glad you were able to give the 85 a second chance. Thanks for the note Tyler - Dennis

[@adamwright4969]

Thank you for you're videos, they helped me tremendously with my collection of old penn conventional reels. I own several of the 85s and they are one of my favorite reels.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Glad you like the videos. Thanks for the note and for watching - Glad to help you keep the collection fishing - Dennis

[@jim22222]

Hi Dennis. Thanks to you and your amazing video, I plucked up the courage to strip, clean and lubricate my ancient Seaboy 85. I did make one error though; I almost lost the retaining pin for the gear sleeve. However, as luck would have it, I found it by the drain. Thanks again.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

YW - thanks for the note and for watching

[@colinphilpott3700]

Denis, thank you so much for your time and effort putting these videos up. I find them fascinating and very informative.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Thank you Colin. Please stay tuned for more to come....and let your fishing friends know to subscribe as well. - Dennis

[@papajolly20]

Thanks Dennis, I took my Penn 85 apart to clean it. I’m not sure where I got it but have had it for 30 plus years. I took photos as I dismantled it and kept track of which screws went where. When I removed the screws for the bridge that let the anti reverse dog go as well as the flat spring. I did not know exactly how it was supposed to be. Out of shear luck I found your video on the 50 year old 85. It saved me, your detailed showing of how the parts go as well as removing the gear sleeve are much appreciated. 3 try’s with the flat spring putting it back together and it is working perfect. Thank you and yes I did subscribe.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

I'm glad to hear that the video helped you restore your reel. THat's why I am doing these. Thanks for subscribing. Please stay tuned for more to come - Dennis

[@zz504]

I bought this reel brand-new back In the late 70s. When I was 12 or so. I used it for years in the surf and lakes. Then I moved off to Kentucky, picked up a spinner and that was that. Well today I was visiting my folks and started poking around in the garage, and there it was. Still hanging from the ceiling where I left it 30 years ago. Still seems mostly o.k., though the star is ceased guessing those washers dried out. I am looking forward to restoring it and getting it back in the salt. Great vid btw...

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Great to hear. I'll bet it is just the dried grease. New drag washers, oil and grease will get that reel fishing again! You can get the drag washers for around $10 through mysticparts.com .If the star adjuster is stuck, just spray it with some penetrating oil, like WD40 and let it sit a few minutes. That should free it up. Thanks for watching - Dennis

[@jeffsmith8958]

I don’t own any old reels like this, in fact I’m kind of a gear junkie of the new stuff (29 years old, sorry) but this channel is so helpful understanding how we got to new stuff! So cool!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Thanks for the kind words Jeff. I like a lot of the new stuff as well. The problem I am finding is that a lot of stuff is just cosmetic change in a fashion industry that claims to be new and improved. Do you really need 10 bearings???? In the end, a main gear drives a smaller gear and the reels pull up fish. Everything else is a bonus - lighter weight components, stronger, more precise die cut and or elliptical gears, stronger metals, better oils and lubricants, etc. I have to admit though, it is fun to open up a new reel and see 30 or 40 year old technology under the side plates

[@keithhoughton4308]

Hi Dennis, what a fabulously detailed video and a very relaxing one too. I've had one of these reels for some years now. I bought it at an antique fair in the UK for the equivalent of $25 and it has been decorating the hall on a wooden rod. With the help of your inspiring video I'm going to get this reel catching fish once more!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Keith - Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for the feedback. Best wishes for your project and for great fishing with the reel - Dennis

[@RickMahoney2013]

That is the one I have I thank you for doing a video on this reel.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

YW

[@lsd-25ayahuascadmt7]

I have a Penn 350 Leveline on a Daiwa Seacoast 7ft rod. The rod is a deep brown with metal flake and it's wrapped in beautiful ribbons of red and orange. It was my dad's striper pole. I am just fascinated by the big, heavy duty Penn reels. I've got another pole, a bamboo one, with a huge Penn Senator on it. They remind me of winches.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

These are great reels and will last a lifetime if you keep them maintained. Thanks for viewing. Please stay tuned for more - Dennis

[@fishingkayakssa7956]

Those Penn boys were way ahead of their time those days....

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Yes they were

[@nickfrancipane2763]

What a tank....the 50's reels are amazing!

[@zarchy55]

I’ve been enjoying your videos the past few days. I’m curious as to why you put grease instead of oil in the spindle bearings.

[@tazewellelconquistador888]

Hello Dennis...nice piece of history

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Just wait until you see my next video if you like history - Happy New year Ernest.

[@smoknbenfryer6483]

I enjoyed the Penn 85 assembly. I have a model 85 that came from great grandfather 30 years ago . I have had it in a box for that time. I decided to take it apart and see what was letting the reel crank in both directions. Once inside a saw there was no anti reverse dog or spring. If I order a new dog and coiled spring will it fit any Penn model 85? Or are the side plates different for those with a flat spring or a coiled dog spring? thanks figured you might know the answer

[@2ndChanceTackle]

There are 2 versions of the side plate and dog. If you side plate has a pin just above the lower right hand screw When looking at it from the inside, then your reel will use the flat top dog and the flat spring. If there is a cavity and not a pin, then it will use the coil spring and the dog with he right angle bump out at the top - Dennis

[@smoknbenfryer6483]

thanks thats great information. I have the newer version and have my parts on the way.

[@vanerhead4233]

Thanks very much. I have thoroughly enjoyed your videos on this (I have an 85, but a "newer" model with the Bakelite handle) and the Squidder 140. I will follow your advice and cautions when replacing the drag washers (watch the springs, aye!).

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Vane - thanks for watching. Please stay tuned for more to come - Good luck on tuning up the 85. It will last a long time if properly cared for with a little cleaning and oil/grease - Dennis

[@Andres-ym2qz]

This video save my reel.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Glad to hear it. Thanks for letting me know. Best wishes - Dennis

[@GarthGoldberg]

I would definitely fish that reel.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

No reason it can't go fishing! So many choices, so few days to get the line wet. The older 85 models are as good as anything on the market today. Thanks - Dennis

[@Dman9fp]

Bought one today (on old rod with non-monofilament line) surprised it still works like new. Clicks a bunch while casting & retrieving though

[@theeabster1983]

If them pliers are dedicated for your reels we ourselves take a rubber tube and force it over the grip of the pliers and slightly heat it up with a hair dryer heat gun or little bit of super glue and it stays. Nothing wrong with the kitchen scrubbie. Just an idea

[@MrLovethypenguin]

Ok now I want to send my penn 85 to you. I'm scared I'm going to mess it up lol.

[@2ndChanceTackle]

BTW if you are serious, you can always send me the reel. Please send a note to my email [e-mail] for the information - Thanks Dennis

[@sirvaysa07]

Hey Dennis......great videos. Thank you. Is there a way you could identify a real name and number from a couple of photos ?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

I can try. Send the photos to me at [e-mail] and I will let you know - Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@eliottfrost5224]

How heavy of fish do you think this would be good for?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

This can easily handle a 20 pound fish

[@engineninjaChris]

What kind of grease are you using for your reels?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

I use Penn Precision reel grease and oil on most of my reels - Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@BobDMD]

Thanks for posting this. It was very helpful and I think I can almost do it! One question however, where can I find a replacement dog spring? Thanks again!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

You can still get parts through Mysticparts.com. They are an authorized Penn Parts distributor and carry these springs for about $2 plus shipping - Dennis

[@aaroncarranza1129]

Great video. I ordered a side plate to replace one that is cracked. The antireverse spring in my reel is a flat spring type and I believe what i received is a coil spring type side cover. Is it possible to get a flat spring type (part number?)or can it be converted to coil? Which is better?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Aaron - sorry for not replying earlier. You can convert the reel to the coil spring. The only part needed is the anti reverse dog which is different and of course, the coil spring. If you did not get these yet, send me a note at [e-mail] and I can send them to you - Dennis

[@leekro1]

I notice in your videos you usually use the HT 100 drags when refurbishing. Can you compare them with the Smooth Drag Carbontex washers as far as pros and cons or is it more just a matter of personal preference? Love your videos!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

There is a difference between the two beyond personal preference. The Carbontex are harder and more wear resistant. The HT-100 are what the manufacturer supplies and they work great for the average angler. If you find you are wearing these out or that you are constantly fishing with heavy drag loads, then Carbontex will perform better. It comes at a price. Carbontex washers are more expensive than the HT-100s. Dennis

[@leekro1]

@@2ndChanceTackle Thanks Dennis. Your timely response is greatly appreciated! Tight lines!

[@theeabster1983]

Anybody know where I could find replacement screws for the Ryobi sx5 looking for a bail screw in particular. EBay has some parts but they're not very thorough on what the screws go to. And when I asked the seller they tell me to go find the schematic and come back to him with a part number. And I just can't find the schematic online that I'm able to see it's all blurry . thanks for any help

[@dandemagistris2821]

Hi Dennis, Speaking of old reels, do you know who made Surf Queen 442 reels?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Dan - I am not familiar with that one. If you can send me a picture or two of the reel to "[e-mail]". I will see if I can identify it - Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@arturoerickson1799]

Hi Dennis, I am currently reassembling an 85 by mingling parts from two reels. I finally noticed the "donor" reel is bent, the spools spindle ends and base plate have been discarded so far. How much force does it take to warp or bend a reel like this?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

It takes a lot of force. Usually these get bent when the reel is slammed into a side rail or dropped to the ground or boat deck. I have parts if you need them - Dennis

[@arturoerickson1799]

Thanks for the input. I had someone tell me pulling a snag free or battling too large a fish could do it, that made no sense. Side plates are uncracked, my guess is it took heavy torque. Lost in a load of heavy boxes, stomped on etc. I'll keep the parts in mind.

[@boobots4797]

Is the nut above the handle with the hole in the center for oiling?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Yes. That allows easy access to oil the bridge post and gear sleeve without disassembling the reel. Most folks will take the handle screw off and add a drop of oil inside rather than try to add through the hole. - Dennis

[@bradcranford2264]

Hi Dennis, Should all drag discs get lubed or should some remain dry? Thanks

[@2ndChanceTackle]

There are 3 types of discs. The felt washers get oiled, the fabric washers. like Carbontex or the Penn HT-100s get grease and the teflon washers remain dry. Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@bradcranford2264]

Awesome! Great info. Thank you.

[@deanjones8156]

What year was the Penn 79 manafactured

[@2ndChanceTackle]

The reel was first introduced in the mid 1950s and discontinued in the 1980s - Dennis

[@deanjones8156]

@@2ndChanceTackle thank you for your help

[@kenterline64]

I have the same reel. What would you charge me to do the same job? Thanks!

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Keith - Please send a note to my email [e-mail] for repair and service information. Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@reyalvarez5458]

Hey.....i got..a hardy Marquis lwt fly reel...just for a few bucks..should i keep it or sale it...?.....

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Your choice. I keep the ones with sentimental value and the ones to go fishing. I believe the reels are meant to fish, not collect....so, if you are going to use it, keep it, if you are not, I'd pass it on and let someone else enjoy it - Dennis

[@geradebowden3293]

mine has a red bakalite handle . how old would it be ?

[@2ndChanceTackle]

The side plates have more to say than the handle. if you have black side plates, they were made up until the 1980's when they switched to brown side plates. The wooden handles were replaced in the 1950's. So your reel is anywhere from 30-50+ years with the black side plates and 20-30 years old with the brown ones. Thanks for asking - Dennis

[@easyfishing9152]

I have one penn 85...for parts... But i have no ideas yet...it has broken spool....thanks

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Rey - if you can't repair it, save it for parts. Most of the internal parts also fit the Long Beach 60 and DelMar 285 reels. Similarly, if you need a spool, the spools for those reels will fit the 85. Dennis

[@ปอนกองเเก้ว]

Good

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Thank you - Dennis

[@dong9833]

I have a penn10 reel how old is it

[@2ndChanceTackle]

The Penn 10 was first manufactured in the early. 1980's and the last date of manufacture was 2002. Dennis

[@reyalvarez5458]

Hey...have a good day.....and show us the rarest Reel..you have......

[@2ndChanceTackle]

I don't keep many reels and "rare" is a relative term. I will check and see what I can find for you - Dennis

[@thiagorodrigues-fb1jq]

Top! Muito bom!!!!

[@hasanahmed77]

Ohhhhh thats to old

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Old, but still fishing! Dennis

[@seymourwrasse3321]

Mystic parts specs on this says they came out pre war, with the wooden knob it could be older then 50 years

[@2ndChanceTackle]

Thanks for the additional research. Yes - wooden knobs are generally an indication of pre-war (WWII) dates