In spite of the crude construction, the reel works as intended! Gearing is 1:1 and ball bearings have been put in all pertinent locations; all the gears are locked in place with pins, rather than screws. A crude, but effective anti-reverse is on the back plate side, with an on/off switch on a screw that when thrown, holds the AR pawl away from the gear. shims have been added where needed to make the whole operation run surprisingly smooth. The spool was wrapped with about 300 ft of copper wire and was reinforced with numerous cross-members to ensure it doesn't collapse during use:
So, the urge is to put out the JB Weld and put some lipstick on this pig....but on second thought, it 'tis what it 'tis....and certainly one of a kind just as it is.
...I agree it’s a relic that no doubt represents its history, for which background is sketchy....this bit of lore from Dan:
I knew there was a sleeping beauty under those shabby clothes! Now that’s what I’m talking about! Great job! Took her from little ole Mary Ann to a Ginger!
