Old Girl

[BrandonH]

Nice old reel

[finding_time]

[mcsalty]

G'day Neil. The best bet for tracking down another spool would ne to ask around at bait and tackle shops particularly the smaller, family run shops. They normally have contact phone numbers for woodturning hobbyists who make them. ( Come to think of it someone on this site might be able to help in that regard) Another way is to check the yellow pages under the heading "clubs" then "woodworking" or "woodturning". Fishing reel collectors could be another good bet.

Yep, nice and light. That's one of the main characteristics of cedar for you. Also it's soft and easy to work with. Normally the most highly prized Australian antiques are made of cedar but good original condition is a major factor.

Cost should be anyhere beteen $30 and $80 (Depending on weather you buy just the bare spool without any finish coating or fittings or if you get a completed one).

I'll continue to see if I can find one or someone that makes them around here (Caloundra) and get back to you ASAP. Might be a couple of days though.

Regards, Bruce . PS. I'd love to see some pics of those boats. Great topic for a post too.

[NeilD]

I'm going to bite the bullet and strip it this weekend . Its a shame to leave that Cedar hidden under the dark finish. I am still not certain on the final finish. I am considering 1/2 dozen coats of Marine grade polyurethane varnish or even the stuff you coat polished timber floors with. The older style finishes would be more authentic but I really want this to be as functional as possible.

Cheers

Neil