Product Description
Mitchell 81135 Drive Gear – Core Transmission Replacement
Restore the powerful, fluid retrieve of your classic Mitchell spinning reel with the Mitchell 81135 Drive Gear. As the primary transmission component within the reel’s housing, the drive gear (or main gear) is responsible for converting handle rotation into the high-torque movement required to battle fish and manage line.
Over years of use, the gear teeth can become worn, chipped, or pitted, leading to a "gritty" feel or slipping during heavy loads. Replacing a compromised gear with this precision-engineered 81135 model ensures a seamless mesh with the pinion gear, returning your vintage reel to its original factory smoothness.
Product Specifications
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Part Number: 81135
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Alternate Part Numbers: 9081135, 81-135
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Component Type: Drive Gear / Main Gear
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Material: High-grade alloy/brass construction for superior wear resistance and gear-tooth integrity.
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Orientation: Engineered specifically for left-hand retrieve models (right-hand wind).
Compatible Mitchell Models
The Mitchell 81135 is a specialized gear designed for the "Cap" series and round-body reels, specifically those configured for left-hand retrieve:
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Mitchell 305 (Left-hand version of the 304)
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Mitchell 315 (Left-hand version of the 314)
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Mitchell 305S
Note: Because Mitchell 305 and 315 reels are dedicated "lefty" models, the gear teeth are cut in a specific direction to accommodate the counter-clockwise rotation of the internal drive system.
Maintenance & Lubrication Guide
The drive gear is the heart of your reel's internal mechanics and requires high-performance lubrication to prevent metal-on-metal wear:
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Preparation: Thoroughly clean the gear housing to remove old, oxidized grease and metal shavings before installing the new 81135 gear.
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Deuthlon Reel Grease: Apply a generous but even coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the gear teeth. This grease is specifically formulated to adhere to moving parts under pressure, providing a "cushioning" effect that quietens the reel.
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Deuthlon Reel Oil: Apply a drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil to the drive gear shaft and the bushings to ensure the handle turns with minimal resistance.
For a complete breakdown of the internal assembly and to ensure all shims (Part #81134) are correctly placed, consult the original PDF schematics at www.reelschematic.com.
Why Choose This Part?
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Direct Fit: Matches the exact diameter and tooth-count requirements for the 305/315 chassis.
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Restored Power: Eliminates "gear slap" and slipping, providing a solid, confident feel during the retrieve.
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Vintage Preservation: Keeps these iconic 1960s and 70s French-made reels in active service for future generations of anglers.

