Product Description
Fits: Bantam 200, 200SG, 100, 100SG, 100EX, 100EXSG, 100XSG, 1000, 1000SG, 250SG, 250SGXHS 250X Mag Pro 100XG.
SmoothDrag CarbonTex Drag Washer Kit – Classic Bantam & Mag Plus Series
Restore and modernize your vintage Shimano collection with the SmoothDrag CarbonTex Drag Kit. This precision-cut carbon fiber upgrade is specifically designed to fit the legendary Bantam 100/200 series and their high-performance SG/Mag derivatives.
These classic reels were originally equipped with felt or early composite washers that tend to get sticky, compressed, or "jerky" over decades of use. Upgrading to CarbonTex provides a silky-smooth startup and consistent pressure that rivals modern high-end baitcasters, making these vintage gems fully capable of handling today's aggressive freshwater and light saltwater species.
Key Performance Benefits
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Eliminates Start-up Inertia: Say goodbye to the "drag jerk" that snaps light lines. CarbonTex provides a fluid, instant release.
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Modern Stopping Power: Offers a much firmer, more linear drag curve than original vintage felt washers.
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All-Weather Reliability: Carbon fiber does not absorb moisture, swell, or rot, ensuring your classic reel performs perfectly in rain or high humidity.
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Long-Term Durability: These washers are virtually wear-proof, significantly outlasting the original factory components.
Compatibility & Fitment
This kit is a direct-fit upgrade for the internal drag stack of the following classic Shimano "Gold" and "Silver" Bantam-style reels. For exact assembly order, please consult the original schematics (available at www.reelschematic.com).
Fits the following models:
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Bantam Series: 100, 100SG, 200, 200SG, 1000, 1000SG
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Bantam EX/X Series: 100EX, 100EXSG, 100XSG
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Mag Plus / SG Series: 250SG, 250SGXHS, 250X
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Specialty Models: Mag Pro 100XG
Professional Maintenance & Lubrication
To achieve the legendary "silky" feel of a CarbonTex system and protect your vintage brass gears, proper lubrication is essential:
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Drag Surface Treatment: Apply a very thin, translucent coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to both sides of the CarbonTex washers. This specialized grease is formulated to prevent "chatter" and provide a waterproof barrier for the metal plates.
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Mechanical Fluidity: Use Deuthlon Reel Oil on the spool bearings and the level-wind worm gear. On these older reels, proper oiling is the secret to maintaining the incredible free-spool they are known for.
Vintage Care Tip: Before installing, use a high-quality degreaser or rubbing alcohol to remove old, hardened "green" or "brown" grease from the metal drag plates. If the plates are corroded or scratched, a light sanding with 2000-grit wet/dry paper will ensure the new carbon washers seat perfectly.
