Penn 704 Z Bail keeps snapping shut during cast

[klingon]

I'm casting surge tube lures for Barracuda and the bail frequently (4 or 5 times an hour) snaps shut during the start of the cast, causing tangles. I'm not sure which part or parts would be causing this issue. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[Midway Tommy D]

You more than likely need to inspect the bail trip mechanism for wear and/or grunge. The spring may also be worn or weak.


Clean the area under it and the spring in the rotor.


Check the bail plate notch and both ends of the trip arm to make sure neither is worn.

I doubt that the bail springs would be the culprit.

Here's a schematic...........Replacement parts can be obtained @ Mystic Parts.

BTW, have your camera available when you take things apart and snap plenty of pictures. The camera is a godsend for putting things back together correctly!

[klingon]

Thank you very much. I've had this reel and a Mitchell 302 for probably over 50 yrs. I've pretty much given up on the Mitchell. The dog that engages the rotor keeps failing.

[Midway Tommy D]

Thank you very much. I've had this reel and a Mitchell 302 for probably over 50 yrs. I've pretty much given up on the Mitchell. The dog that engages the rotor keeps failing.

Your 302 trip problem is probably a similar issue, either a weak spring (there are 2), worn plunger or dog or the bail trip mechanism needs a good cleaning. They're really a pretty simple design.