2009 August | Fishing Rods

31
Aug

Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcasting

abu garcia black max baitcasting
The spool on my Abu Garcia Black Max doesn’t spin when I crank the handle. Haven’t strung it yet, is it okay?

I just bought an Abu Garcia Black Max baitcasting reel today. The package didn’t show any signs of crushing or tampering, however when I removed it from the packaging and put it on my rod to prepare to string it, I cranked the handle a couple of times and realized that my spool doesn’t spin when I crank the handle. I can turn it freely by hand and it turns smooth and fast. It will occasionally spin when I crank the handle. I haven’t strung it yet, should I take it back and exchange it? Or is this a condition that will resolve itself when I string the reel? Any help anyone can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. I don’t mean to sound ignorant, but this is the first baitcasting reel I’ve ever owned. I ususally use spinning reels.

Don’t worry. This is perfectly normal. Some reels leave the factory with no drag tension; this is the proper way to treat a reel. Simply tighten the drag and the spool will spin. Just remember to loosen the drag after each use.