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I recently decided to try removing the levelwind and top support bar on an old Abu C4. I don't really like the levelwind/worm gear on these reels and I wanted to see if it would improve casting distance and freespool.
I picked up the kit (CT bar and studs) from Jerry Foran at http://www.hookless.com/ after reading some reviews and recommendations on SOL. He makes a nice product and is a friendly and helpful guy if any of you all should want to attempt this conversion.
Beware, this modification is not reversible and will require you purchasing a new frame if you want to go back to having a levelwind.
Here's the kit:
IMG_4068.jpg
The Abu Garcia 5601 C4 before the conversion:
IMG_4067.jpg
Here is the finished product after removing the levelwind and cutting the top support bar out with a hacksaw:
IMG_4069.jpg
Tips:
- Install the CT bar first so that the frame is supported.
- Before cutting the top support bar, make sure to cover the ct bar with a few layers of tape and maybe some cardboard. You don't want to put a bur on the bar.
- Cut the support bar into 3 pieces, as in make two cuts on the bar each about 1/4 from the frame edge.
- Don't cut all the way through your first cut before you make your second cut, it will help.
I removed the cog from the side plate but this reel has a clicker so for the time being I plan to keep the spool cog there as opposed to using a speed bushing.
I picked up the kit (CT bar and studs) from Jerry Foran at http://www.hookless.com/ after reading some reviews and recommendations on SOL. He makes a nice product and is a friendly and helpful guy if any of you all should want to attempt this conversion.
Beware, this modification is not reversible and will require you purchasing a new frame if you want to go back to having a levelwind.
Here's the kit:
IMG_4068.jpg
The Abu Garcia 5601 C4 before the conversion:
IMG_4067.jpg
Here is the finished product after removing the levelwind and cutting the top support bar out with a hacksaw:
IMG_4069.jpg
Tips:
- Install the CT bar first so that the frame is supported.
- Before cutting the top support bar, make sure to cover the ct bar with a few layers of tape and maybe some cardboard. You don't want to put a bur on the bar.
- Cut the support bar into 3 pieces, as in make two cuts on the bar each about 1/4 from the frame edge.
- Don't cut all the way through your first cut before you make your second cut, it will help.
I removed the cog from the side plate but this reel has a clicker so for the time being I plan to keep the spool cog there as opposed to using a speed bushing.
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