alvey reels

[pgreen]

can someone let me know how to look after old red cedar and wooden alvey reels?

[theoldlegend]

If you're talking about the metal parts, I use an old toothbrush around the parts on the backing plate and the side cast system to remove any green rubbish, then give them a smear of light (reel) grease. Take the handles off, clean around the screw threads and if they've got the felt washers on top of the screws, then a drop or two of sewing machine oil is good.

Cedar and rosewood are soft, light cabinetwoods and need a bit of care because of this. A good quality timber oil will do, but make sure it's OK for these timbers. A light smear of vasoline is fine too, but don't overdo it and rub it in well.

If you wanted to get a bit carried away, after you've taken the line off, a light rub with steel wool on the spool before applying the oil or vaso will help. I would leave this for one or two days, another rub with a soft cloth and put the line back on.

This should keep them trouble free.


TOL

[pgreen]

thanks very much for that, will give it a try.