Zebco 33 drag not working

[Customf1]

Hi,
Good morning sir! I was hoping you can help me out. I believe I have a 1970’s zebco 33. The issue is the drag doesn’t work. The spool is locked down tight not sure if it’s supposed to spin or is washers are missing. I think it’s missing the drag washers one on each side of the spool but I’m not sure. The schematics I looked at didn’t show any drag washers .I would appreciate if you can take a look and let me know your thoughts.
Thanks,
Howard

[Harry Verdurchi]

There are many configurations on that model over the years for Drags so IF you could post some pictures of the reel it would help immensely. Usually simple repair if no one has glued it removed or removed parts.

[Customf1]

[rimg][/rimg]

[Dick Janak]

The little knob on the left side of the reel is the drag adjusting knob.It should say on and off on it..Take the spool cover off and uncrew the spool cover.Now pull the spool off.When you turn that little knob you should see a tab on the main housing that goes in and out. That tad is what put tension on the spool and is the drag..Hope that helps you out .If you need any more info email me. Dick janak

[Customf1]

Hi Dick,
The tab does go in and out so it appears to be working. When The tab is all the way in and drag is loose and off however the spool does not drop in lightly . The spool is very tight even with the drag off.

[Harry Verdurchi]

You may have a Broken TAB

[Dick Janak]

With the tab all the way in the spool should turn freely..Clean the main shaft on the housing and also clean and burnish the inside of the spool where the tab touches it...Dick

[Tom M]

The lexan gear bodies are known to crack and expand where the spool slides on. More than likely the problem. Sometimes you have to look really close to see the cracks.

[Harry Verdurchi]

The lexan gear bodies are known to crack and expand where the spool slides on. More than likely the problem. Sometimes you have to look really close to see the cracks.

Absolutely .
Good eye Tom I did not even notice he had a plastic version .
The pic I posted is the Metal body which usually a good cleaning works on those. Use Steel wool to clean the inside of that spool and the flange it goes on and MAYBE you can use it .

[Customf1]

Guys, Thanks for the input and looking at this for me.