South Bend 1131A ?

[Ron Mc]

Picked up one of these recently for a very good price, and haven't taken it apart yet. Before I do:
How does the anti-backlash bar put brakes on the spool?
(mine doesn't seem to do anything)

[Jim Madden]

Ron, the bail should have slight tension on it when lifted, but it's common to receive a reel with that spring action missing. Take the headcap off and look inside. You'll see a spring-loaded lever that should contact the inside finger of the bail when the plate is on. If you put the plate back on slightly rotated counter-clockwise, the lever may engage the bail correctly inside as you press the plate and move it clockwise until the screws line up. The tension will re-appeare unless there is a problem with a part. (If the spring is missing I have one for you.) To set the tension, lift the bail and spin the handle. Tighten the ABL button until the spool stops when you drop the bail. It's a clever system. Jim

[Ron Mc]

Hi Jim,
thanks for your reply. Great description.
The bail itself has plenty of spring to drive it down.
I just haven't seen it do anything on the spool yet.
Thanks again for your description - I may look at it again tonight.

[Ron Mc]

Hi Jim, got it.

The rubber drag knob was worn down so that it wouldn't engage the spool. I put the tiniest washer I had under the lever for a shim, and now it works perfectly. Wide range of adjustment.

Thanks again.