Product Description
MITCHELL 81596 COVER PLATE – Mitchell 406 & 407 High-Speed Series
The Mitchell 81596 Cover Plate (also referred to as the Side Plate) is a critical exterior housing component for the classic Mitchell 406 and 407 high-speed spinning reels. Designed to protect the internal gear train from contaminants while maintaining the structural alignment of the drive gear, this plate is essential for the smooth operation of your vintage reel. Crafted with the durability required for saltwater and heavy-duty freshwater use, the 81596 plate is a direct OEM-specification replacement part.
Product Specifications & Compatibility
The 81596 cover plate is specifically contoured for the "intermediate" frame size used in the 406/407 high-speed series. It features the necessary ports for the side plate screws and provides a secure seal against the main housing.
This part fits the following Mitchell models:
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Mitchell 406 (High-Speed Freshwater/Light Saltwater)
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Mitchell 407 (High-Speed Right-Hand Wind)
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Mitchell 306 (Note: Compatibility may vary by year; check schematics for specific vintage fits)
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Mitchell 307
Technical Tip: Because Mitchell reels underwent various design changes over the decades, always verify your specific model year. You can view high-resolution PDF schematics for the 406 and 407 series at www.reelschematic.com.
Cross-Reference & Alternate Part Numbers
In many vintage parts catalogs and regional listings, the 81596 plate is associated with its counterpart or an updated manufacturing code. When searching for this part, use the following numbers for accurate identification:
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Primary Part Number: 81596
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Alternate Part Number: 81595
Maintenance & Performance Optimization
To ensure a watertight seal and prevent the side plate screws from seizing due to corrosion, proper lubrication during installation is highly recommended.
We recommend Deuthlon Lubricants for all Mitchell restoration and maintenance:
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Deuthlon Power Gear Grease: Apply a very light film to the inner rim of the cover plate where it meets the housing to create a moisture barrier.
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Deuthlon Reel Orchid Oil: Apply a single drop to the threads of the side plate screws (Part #81611) before tightening to ensure easy removal during future servicing.
Key Features
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Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of high-speed retrieval and marine environments.
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Precision Fit: Ensures the drive gear remains perfectly seated against the internal bearings.
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Aesthetic Integrity: Maintains the classic look and value of your vintage Mitchell 400-series reel.
