Product Description
Mitchell 81661 Housing Assembly | Fits 710 Fly Reel
Restore the structural foundation of your classic automatic fly reel with the genuine Mitchell 81661 Housing Assembly. This housing serves as the main chassis for the Mitchell 710, one of the most iconic automatic fly reels ever produced. It provides the precise internal tracks and mounting points for the high-tension spring motor, the spool shaft, and the trigger mechanism.
Crafted to the original factory specifications, this assembly is essential for correcting issues related to frame warping, impact damage, or severe corrosion that can impede the automatic line retrieval system.
Product Specifications
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Part Name: Housing Assembly / Main Frame
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Manufacturer Part Number: 81661
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Alternate Part Number: 81661-0
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Finish: Classic Mitchell Textured Black / Semi-Gloss
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Series: 700 Series Automatic Fly Reels
Compatibility & Fitment
The 81661 Housing Assembly is engineered specifically for the following Mitchell fly reel models:
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Mitchell 710 (Standard Automatic)
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Garcia Mitchell 710
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Mitchell 710A (Check internal lever compatibility)
Technical Resource: Because the internal spring of an automatic fly reel is under significant tension, we strongly recommend viewing the assembly procedures and PDF schematics at www.reelschematic.com before attempting a full housing swap.
Installation & Maintenance
Replacing the housing requires a complete breakdown of the reel's motor and trigger components. To ensure the rapid, smooth line pickup the 710 is known for, proper lubrication is mandatory during reassembly.
Recommended Lubrication Protocol:
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Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease: Apply to the internal trigger pivot points and the main spring housing interface. Deuthlon's moisture-shield properties are vital for fly reels, which are frequently submerged or exposed to high humidity.
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Deuthlon Reel Power Oil: Use a drop on the spool spindle and the line trigger hinge. This ultra-performance oil ensures the trigger remains responsive and the spool rotates with zero hesitation during high-speed retrieval.
Why Use the Genuine 81661 Assembly?
The Mitchell 710 relies on exact tolerances to manage the energy of its internal power spring. Using a genuine 81661 Housing ensures that the trigger lever and the brake shoe align perfectly. Aftermarket or damaged frames can cause "spring binding" or inconsistent line pickup, which can lead to snapped tippets or damaged fly lines. This original housing preserves the balance and mechanical integrity of this French-engineered classic.

