Product Description
Mitchell 81508 Rotor (Rotating Head) - Genuine Replacement for 397 & 497 Series
The Mitchell 81508 Rotor, also known as the Rotating Head, is a heavy-duty replacement component specifically engineered for Mitchell’s large-capacity, Right-Hand Wind (RHW) saltwater spinning reels. This part is critical for the retrieve cycle, providing the structural housing for the bail assembly and ensuring perfectly balanced rotation during high-drag battles.
Because the Mitchell 397 is the mirrored, right-hand wind version of the 396, this rotor is precision-threaded and balanced to operate in a clockwise direction. Whether you are restoring a vintage surf casting legend or repairing a 497 high-speed model, this genuine rotor provides the factory-spec alignment necessary for smooth line lay and reliable bail tripping.
Product Specifications & Compatibility
The 81508 rotor is designed for the largest frame size in the Mitchell spinning reel family, often referred to as the "Saltwater" or "Intermediate/Large" series.
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Part Name: Rotor / Rotating Head
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Part Number: 81508
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Fits the Following Models:
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Mitchell 397 (Standard Right-Hand Wind)
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Mitchell 497 (High-Speed Right-Hand Wind)
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Mitchell 487 (Right-Hand Wind variation)
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Mitchell 499 (Heavy Duty / RHW Version)
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Mitchell 387 (Special RHW series)
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Key Features
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Saltwater Grade Construction: Forged from high-strength materials with a corrosion-resistant finish to withstand the rigors of surf, pier, and offshore fishing.
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Balanced Inertia: Specifically weighted to eliminate rotor wobble, even when using the high-speed gear ratios found in the 497 series.
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Precision Bail Interface: Features exact-tolerance pivot points for the bail wire and trip lever, ensuring the bail stays open during long casts and snaps shut instantly upon retrieval.
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Heavy-Duty Spool Alignment: Provides the lateral stability required to keep the large-diameter spools centered during intense pressure from saltwater game fish.
Maintenance & Installation Tip
Large saltwater rotors like the 81508 are exposed to heavy spray and sand. Proper lubrication of the rotor nut and the internal bail trip mechanism is essential to prevent seizing.
Recommendation: We highly recommend using Deuthlon Lubrication for all Mitchell saltwater restorations. Apply Deuthlon Power Gear Grease to the rotor nut threads and the internal bail trip ramps. For the line roller and bail hinges, use Deuthlon Cast Lube Oil to maintain a salt-resistant, frictionless barrier.
Technical Support & Schematics
To ensure the counterweights, bail springs, and trip levers are correctly oriented within this specific rotor, refer to the official PDF schematics at www.reelschematic.com. The 397 and 497 models have unique "Right-Hand" components that must be assembled exactly according to factory diagrams to function correctly.
