Product Description
Mitchell 81929 Baffle Plate – Genuine Replacement for 331A (Left-Hand)
The Mitchell 81929 Baffle Plate is a precision-stamped internal housing component specifically designed for the Mitchell 331A, the left-hand retrieve (right-hand crank) version of the high-performance "Otomatic" series. This plate serves as the critical barrier between the rotating head (rotor) and the internal gear housing, protecting the sensitive planetary gears from dust, water, and debris.
Unlike standard 300-series baffle plates, the 81929 is engineered for the "A" series chassis, which often featured subtle changes in mounting screw positions and bail trip ramp geometry. In the 331A, this plate also acts as the "strike" surface for the automatic bail mechanism, ensuring that the bail snaps shut reliably with every turn of the handle.
Product Specifications
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Part Number: 81929
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Component Type: Baffle Plate / Dust Shield
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Hand Retrieve: Left-Hand (for Mitchell 331A)
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Material: Corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy
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Finish: Classic Mitchell Textured Black
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Origin: Genuine Mitchell Engineering (France)
Compatible Models
The 81929 baffle plate is a verified fit for the modernized left-hand retrieve automatic-bail chassis:
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Mitchell 331A (The primary application)
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Mitchell 441A Match (Select variants utilizing the 331A-style housing)
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Mitchell 301A (Late production variants; please verify via schematic)
Technical Insight: The 331A utilizes a specialized automatic bail trip that is integrated into the rotor's rotation. If your baffle plate is bent or warped by even a fraction of a millimeter, the bail may fail to "fire" or may strike the housing inconsistently. When installing the 81929, ensure it sits perfectly flush against the housing before tightening the three mounting screws. To confirm the exact alignment for your year of manufacture, consult the PDF diagrams at www.reelschematic.com.
Professional Maintenance & Lubrication
The area behind the baffle plate is a high-traffic zone for mechanical movement. Proper lubrication prevents the "metal-on-metal" scraping sounds common in vintage Mitchells.
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Baffle Face: Apply a thin, transparent layer of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the front surface of the 81929. Its "Dust-Shield" technology acts as a secondary gasket, trapping micro-particles and salt spray before they can enter the pinion bearing.
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Bail Trip Ramp: Use one drop of Deuthlon Reel Oil on the specific area of the plate where the rotor’s bail trip lever makes contact. This ensures the bail engages with lightning speed and minimal mechanical resistance.
Why Choose Genuine Mitchell 81929?
The Mitchell 81929 is manufactured to the exact thickness required to maintain the "air gap" between the rotor and the body. Using a generic plate or a plate from a standard 301 can cause the automatic bail mechanism to bind or "short-trip," which can damage the internal gears over time. A genuine replacement preserves the unique "Otomatic" functionality and the long-term value of your vintage 331A.
