Penn Spinfisher 550SS fishing reel maintenance & drag service including take apart
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 มี.ค. 2018
- This video shows how to perform the basic fishing reel service including cleaning and lubrication of the Penn Spinfisher series by using the 550SS as an example. It applies to all in the series as the mechanical setups are the same. Includes the take apart, lube and reassembly, of the gearing and spool drags.
I have been servicing fishing reels for over 20 years and am sharing my experiences here. If you enjoy the video, please "like" it. If you want to see more, please subscribe as I post frequently.
Comments? Questions? I reply to all.
Thank you - Dennis - กีฬา
That model spinfisher has to be the most bullet proof system they ever made so simple but so durable
Yes it is. Truly, they do not make them like that anymore!
Excellent Video! Thank you sir!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching
Freaking AWESOME! Bought at 450SS for $40! Thanks to your video I was able to clean it up and mount it to a 7ft GX2 Ugly stick. Keep up the great work!
Alfred - that sounds like a great combination that is destined to catch a lot of fish. Best wishes for tight lines - Dennis
I’m 58 now and still have ALL my penn reels i bought since i was 14 years old.All are still in perfect working order. Proper maintenance is the key.
I wish I could say that. I really abused the reels I had as a kid. It took me quite a while to realize these will last a long time with some TLC. Thanks for watching - Dennis
Thank you!!
You're welcome! Thank for the note and for watching - Dennis
Thanks! I have a 550 SS that I haven't used since the 90's. It is in perfect condition, other than the grease has dried up. Your video, and a bit of my time put in back in service.
Thanks for sharing! Good luck on getting the reel fishing again - Dennis
Thanks for the info. I will let you know how it works out.
Just picked one up today at an estate sale for $8. Thanks for the video!
That sounds like a good deal! Best wishes for great fishing with your new find - Dennis
great video! I just reconditioned my Penn 550 SS and your video saved me a bunch of time! Thanks!
Glad it helped! I appreciate you watching the channel. Please stay tuned as I post frequently - Dennis
This is clássic!!! Very good!!!
Thanks for the video, just serviced my 650ss and your video was a great primer. Reassembly fixed a few issues I was having (weak drag, play in bail). Nearly new 20 year old reel! Tight Lines
Glad to hear this video was helpful Ryan. Thanks for watching - Dennis
Great video, thanks for posting!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching - Dennis
A great video. You did not discuss the bail mechanism and how it operates or how to correct it when it doesn't return to its proper position when the handle is engaged. Do you think you could do a video about this? I have resorted to just using my hand to engage the bail to the proper position when retrieving. Thanks.
I have a brand new one still in box it even has a reel lube in it that it came with and and its owners manual and is equipped with brake lining washers for use the the 10 -15 lb. Test lines
Wow - that is a treasure. Thanks for watching Jorge - Dennis
Thanks for the video. I've disassembled, cleaned and attempted to put this real back together but I'm having an issue. The small circular part of the crosswind gear hits the crosswind block. I can't figure out how to remedy this issue. Thanks if you can help.
the small stud on the crosswind gear goes in the slot on the backside of the crosswind block - Dennis
@@2ndChanceTackle Thanks Dennis figured it out and was just sitting down to amend my note. Thanks very much for the response. Now I just need to replace the anti-reverse parts.
Excellent video Denis! What strength Braid are you using on this 550? What is Max drag setting on this reel?
Most of the braid I use is 20 or 30#. I don't know the max drag, but the washers are small so my guess would be around 12-15 pounds - Dennis
Good Afternoon Dennis....love your videos! I'm bringing one of these 550ss's back to life first thing I noticed was the #17 washer seal was missing and when I tighten on the handle the reel handle it becomes no functioning if tight and if loose the handle starts to come off...the washer appears to be felt. Is this my only issue or do you believe it's worse then just the felt washer missing?
The absence of that felt washer should not be causing your issue. Seems like you have an alignment problem with the main gear and pinion gear. I would go back to the schematic and check all parts and orientation as well and ensure that the rotor is tight and the bearings are good. Dennis
Dennis - I have a few questions. Where was this model manufactured? Is this one of the Penn Spinfisher reels where there was some variation in the metallurgy of the main gears - some being alloy and some being brass and steel? I know these reels command a nice price and value on EBay. I don’t have any of these later Spinfishers. I only have the Z series and the greenie 704s and 700s that we’re made in the US. Eventually I’ll probably try to get one. Which model would you recommend for surf fishing? Thanks for another great video! By the way it is older than 20 years!
Hi Christopher. These reels were made in the USA in the early 1990's. I don't think the main gear was brass at that time, probably some type of alloy, but I am not sure. These reels do not share the same design as the earlier ones that you have. They have a solid reputation. The 50 (550) size is very versatile and can by used from shoe, pier or drop fishing. If you are going for the surf only, then the larger 60 (650)or 70 (750) and larger sizes usually match better to the longer 10' + poles.
I’m trying to set a 650 SS up for right hand reeling. I’ve found and ordered a 15BL handle pivot screw, but do I need to buy a special 9A drive screw too?
Awesome video! Thanks for sharing how to properly maintain the SS reels. I have several and love them, even over today's more modern models. I have a problem with my 450ss I hope you can help with. I found this reel almost new in a second hand shop with it's box and manual for a bargain. No rust and only a couple of minor scratches, likely from storage. When I hold the reel and spin the handle quickly, there is significant wobble in the reel. I can find no issues, nothing appears to be bent or misaligned, everything looks pristine. Could the mainshaft be bent? I don't know. None of my others do this and are quite smooth no matter how fast they're spun. Thanks in advance for your insight.
The condition you are describing is other caused by a bent bail wire that is out of round. It is often caused by a missing counterweight, but the 440SS does not have one. My guess would be it is in the rotor assembly, which includes the bail. The axle shaft may be bent, as you asked, but if that were the case, it would operate smoothly at lower speeds, you would feel an uneven stroke as you turned, which would be caused by the bent shaft rubbing on the inside of the pinion gear. If it is un-fishable or annoying beyond use, you may want to find a parts donor reel and replace the suspect pieces. Thanks for asking - Dennis
My drag is not working but what I mean it used to stop when it would go backwards when I took apart and clean i check and it was stopping. But when I put back together it spins freely both ways. Did I do something wrong
Sounds like you did not install the anti-reverse properly. Check how you put this back together and check the anti-reverse in particular. - Dennis
Dennis: How much does it cost for you to do a clean and service a Penn Spinfisher 5500 (excluding parts if necessary)? What is the approximate shipping cost back and forth?
Please send a note to my email 2ndchancetackle@gmail.com for service and repair information. Thanks for asking - Dennis
Eccellent series. Can I request that you do a show on the Penn 4500 SS, anti-reverse does not work. I have not been able to fix it. I had sent it to the Penn repair center in Philly and they reported that they could not fix it and that I buy a new one...go figure,huh? They made me a good deal on it so I did but I got them to return the broken one and I would love to fix it. It is an old favorite.
There is probably something more going on there, like a broken case or parts availability. I will add this to my list and see if I can find a 4500 to show the repair - Thanks for asking - Dennis
@@2ndChanceTackle Thanks for the prompt reply, you may be right about that, I think the Penn folks did say it was a parts issue. If you can do a program on the repair that would be great.
Great video, got me motivated to service my older Penns like this one! Any info on the type of paint used and process to accomplish a better cosmetic appearance? LMK< THanks
Not that I know of. There are a lot of folks that repaint the reels, I am not one of them. I have had suggestions to try an auto body paint shop to do the color match. THat's expensive, but probably the best solution - Dennis
mine looks same way Would you consider repainting it would it be worthwhile at just chip off again?
Please send a note to my email 2ndchancetackle@gmail.com for service and repair information. Include a picture of your reel if possible so that I can answer the question on worth.. Thank you Dennis
I broke the whole reel down because the drag was totally looked up. My spool needed MAJOR cleaning. I noticed you used different grease in the spool than the rest of the reel... Is it ok to used reel grease for these parts as well? If not, what kind of grease is that?
Yes - you can use reel grease on drag washers. The tan grease that I use is Cal's universal drag grease. It is designed for drag washers, but the standard fishing reel grease is fine - Thanks for asking - Dennis
Hi Dennis, your videos have been life savers and money savers. I have a question and wanted to know if you've ever run into this issue in the past with the 550ss. The line builds up towards the top of the spool (uneven). Not sure what the issue is but was hoping you have a solution. Thank you.
Yes I ave run into the problem. If you remove the spool there should be a a white teflon washer sitting on top of the click rotor on the axle shaft. If that is worn or missing, then the spool never travels up high enough to let wind on the bottom of it. Check that before you check anything else. - Dennis
Thanks Dennis! The washer is brand new as I replaced it when I overhauled the reel a few days ago. I took this reel out of hibernation as a spare , now I know I remember why it hasn't been used in years. Other than that issue she's real smooth.
Just for fun, try doubling up with the old washer and see if that makes a difference - if not, then there could be slack or excessive play in the crosswind mechanism.
I'll give it a try, if that doesn't work I may change the shaft. I'll keep you posted. Thanks for the help.
Hey Dennis, as suggested I added the second washer and works perfect. Thanks for the tip. It's been a pleasure. Have a great weekend.
Hello Denise. I have a penn 4500ss the spool goes up and down intermittently. I have taken it appart the post that the gear sits on has broken off the housing. Do you think crazy glue would repair that. Thanks in advance.
David - I think you are referring to the crosswind gear. That part is still available and I would order a replacement rather than trying the crazy glue and have the reel fail when trying to land the big one.
You can get the part through Mysticparts.com. That is the site of the former Pennparts.com. The original part number is 231-4500 and has been replaced with 231n-4500. The cost should be around $10 with shipping - Dennis
Could you not use the Penn grease for the drag system?
Yes you can use the Penn Reel grease on the drag washers. I prefer a grease designed specifically for drag washers, but the Penn grease will be OK. - Dennis
What is the fix if the anti-reverse does not work?
There is a friction cam that grabs the anti-reverse ratchet. The cam has two metal wings that go on each side of the ratchet. These metal "wings" separate over time. You may be able to fix this by using a pliers to reshape them closer together. You may also try tapping them together with a small hammer. If that fails, you will need to replace the part. This fix is assuming that the other parts of the anti-reverse system, including springs and the override lever are working fine. Thanks for asking - Dennis
Regarding cleaning and restoring the drag components, is grease or oil best?
It depends on the type of washer. I use oil on felt washers, grease on fabric washer and nothing on teflon or plastic washers. Carbontex recommends they be used dry or with just a light coat of grease - Thanks for asking - Dennis
Appreciate the detailed reply Dennis. Thanks.
i have a 4500ss , and I juts got a 5500ss not much difference as far as I can see. is the spool bigger the only difference? great vides ….thanks and keep them coming!
Thank you. Yes the 4500 and 5500 share a lot of parts including the main gear and bearings. So, in a nutshell, the key difference is the line capacity.
@@2ndChanceTackle Does this mean I can use a 5500 spool on a 4500 reel?
I have a 4500 and would like to increase its line capacity.
Check the schematics (available at Mysticparts.com) see if the rotor is the same part number for both reels. These reels share many parts. If the rotor is the same, you can use the higher capacity spool. If it is different, it will not work - Dennis
Outstanding! What was the tan (grease?) lubricant you used on the drag? Thanks.
The tan grease is Cal's universal drag grease. It is available on line. Thanks for watching and for asking - Dennis
Could not use the Penn reel grease for the drag system as well?
I would like to ask you if this kind of reel made in usa or in china waiting your answer
Thank you so much
The newer Spinfisher reels have been made in China for the last decade. The older ones, including the 550SS and 5500SS were made in the USA. If the Penn Reel does not say "made in the USA" it wasn't. The older reels have made int he USA stamped on the reel foot. - Thanks for asking - Dennis
I have a 6500SS it's the same right? I bought it for $40! I'd like to know how much drag my reel has? Thanks a lot!
Similar, but not exactly the same. The case is different, but many parts are interchangeable. I am not sure on the max drag rating. I would guess around 15 pounds - Dennis
@@2ndChanceTackle Thanks Dennis.
Any recommendations on parts options for the 550ss? Repairing one for my M-I-L and the main gear is long lost. Looks like they are N/A everywhere I look including eBay. Suggestions? Thanks, nice video.
They are hard to come by and you may need to buy a donor reel to get one. I will return to my shop tomorrow and I will check to see if I have one. I think the one I have is for the 750, but I could be wrong. Please send me a note on Saturday to follow if I do not get back to you - Thanks - Dennis
www.ebay.com/itm/PENN-MODEL-550SS-SPINNING-REEL-FOR-PARTS/174174559294?epid=1901472428&hash=item288d9cdc3e:g:5HgAAOSwf~NeMarm
@@shanemcdade2129 Thank you. I searched eBay just for the one part, not a donor reel. Thanks for sharing. I will take a look at it. Much appreciated!
I was Curious Dennis i been looking through your videos.... how do you get the bearing off these older penns where its stuck on the main gear??? im guessing its locked on peened? Been watching your videos on these but have not come across it yet... mine is a 4500ss made in usa....
I will be posting a video later on a Shakespeaer Tiger with a bearing frozen to the pinion gear. I think that may answer your question! Stay tuned - Dennis
@@2ndChanceTackle will be looking forward to it... You have me taking all my combos apart ...i have about 15 not including my sons wife and daughters combos....Used to collect old chainsaws now im enjoying taking aprt fishing reels .... Your channel helps alot ...Mystic reels should give some free stuff ...I have done 4 orders in the last 3weeks LOL... and have one im getting ready right now .....they are a great resource.....i will mention you in my next order and let them know you are how i found them....
Hmm - Just let the folks - Maureen and Scott, know that you heard about them through. 2nd Chance Tackle's TH-cam videos!
Dennis it's me again. The post that the 231 gear slides over has broken off the housing.
OK - Sounds like a body part. I don't think the body is available, so you have two options. You can try the crazy glue since you have nothing to lose at this point and / or find a used body or parts reel. Ebay may be a source for you. Thanks for asking - Dennis
Thanks for a great video! What was the tan grease you used on the drag washers at the end?
I apologize for asking the same question twice- I couldn't find your response. Thanks!
I use Cal's universal drag grease. That is the tan product you see in the video. Thanks for asking - Dennis
Could you not use the Penn reel grease for the drag system as well.
Hi Sir Dennis, what is the equivalent series of 550ss..? i mean like 1000 series 2000 and so on...
The equivalent would be a 5000 series
@@2ndChanceTackle sir Dennis thank you so much :)
Sir is the handle transferable from to right..?
Yes - the handle can be moved from one side to the other
What grease do you use on the drag washers?
I use Cals universal Drag and reel grease on the fabric washers like the HT100 set. I've never had a problem with reels I have serviced using this product. It is available online through a search. One source is Pennparts. com - here is the link. the 1 ounce container lasts a long time! cut and paste the link below:
Thanks for asking - Dennis
store.scottsbt.com › PennParts › Reel Lubes and Cleaners
Dennis thank you. Ron
could i send you mine to service?
Sure - please send a note to my email 2ndchancetackle@gmail.com for the reel repair and service information - Thanks for asking - Dennis
When I see take out food containers I think parts tray!
We have enough plastic in the ocean! Reuse, repurpose, recycle! Thanks Gerade - Dennis
joe k
i have exact same reel...bearing seems to be frozen on main gear handle side..any tips on getting it off without damaging main gear...also does yours have a little up and down slop on spool shaft when assembled..i been living with it ..but is it normal...or whats the fix..thanks for anyhelp joe
Joe - If your bearing is frozen there is little you can do. Normally, I would either live with it, or replace both the main gear and the bearing. . I checked on Mysticparts.com (formerly Pennparts.com) and these parts are no longer available. I also checked on EBAY and a used bearing is available, but not the main drive gear.
Knowing that is the case, you can either live with it, assuming the bearing still turns and that the only issue is that the inner ring is stuck on the shaft, or you can try to lever it off. If you want to try to lever it, take the main drive gear out of the reel then soak the bearing with a penetrating oil like WD40 and let it sit for a while. When you come back from your coffee break, take two thin, flat blade screwdrivers and set them 180 degrees apart, one on each opposing side and between the bearing and the gear, then gently rock one side, then the other (pry) it to try and move the bearing up and off of the shaft. If that fails, you may want to try a little heat using a plumbers torch. Heat the shaft, not the bearing. Not too long, maybe 20 seconds or so. The two metals will expand differently and that may be a last resort way to remove the bearing. If you do try and are successful, remember to re-oil the bearings when you put it back. Good luck - Dennis
well..got got main gear out but bearing was stuck in side plate..soak it for hour or so ..got impatient and tried tapping bearing out and cracked housing..so ...i have know ordered new side and bearing..plenti of side plates out there and found bearings also..bought 2 of each just in case ever run into this situation again..now working on restoring old brown..penn 720...handle will not turn out of main gear ..hopefully same gear mystic has fits...whats your thoughts of getting handle to unscrew out of main gear...gear is cracked and can see shaft spinning inside main gear when turning handle..anythought appreciated ..thanks again joe
First - put the hammer down! The handle is a screw handle and it should be removed with a clockwise turn That is opposite the normal way to remove a screw. Penn did that to avoid the handle coming loose when you are cranking the reel. Next is old advice. Soak the assembly with a penetrating oil, like WD40. try to get it under the handle near the body. If the main gear is cracked (I haven't seen that before) then the next step is to use a channel lock pliers to hold the main gear from underneath the side plate and turn then try to turn the handle, again, clockwise, not counterclockwise, to get it off. If the main gear is OK, then put the side plate back on the reel, grab hold of the rotor to keep it from spinning and then try to remove the handle. Good luck! - Dennis.
PS as a last resort, you could try heating the main gear to help free the threads if it is still frozen
like i mentioned i can hold main gear firm.. but i can turn handle in both directions and watch center of main gear spin that ratchet sits on...the stud in center of main gear that goes through housing that handle is screwed into..having tough time with this one...dont want to damage housing...stumped...wanted to try reusing handle...might have to try dremeling it off...tried heat and soaking...