Help with Bronson Meadowbrook Reel

[Tom R]

Can anyone tell me if the crank and knobs are original to this reel? I picked this reel up to examine it and the crank fell off, it was difficult to replace: one - the oblong hole in the crank did not seem to fit properly over the shank and two - the crank seemed too thick for the amount of thread that was available for the retaining nut. I'm not sure if the retaining nut is original either. I really like the look of engraved reels but put this one back until I get educated. Thanks....

Meadowbrook #312-3460

[scottorock]

Definitely not original.

[john elder]

But definitely worth buying, if cheap, MHO! What great engraving! Much like the Princess? I would think it would not be that difficult to find the handle that would be proper, but maybe the Bronson folks would think otherwise!

[scottorock]

You're right, John. Very easy to find the correct crank. I don't think I have any spares, but I'll check. I'm sure Dick Janak has boxes of them...lol. Contact him, Tom.

[wrong99]

Actually, the correct grips for this model were rather unusual, made of hard rubber. Bronson only used this type on a few pre-war models. Might be tougher to find than one would think.
Mark

[Tom R]

Thanks guys for your help!! Much appreciated.