Product Description
Mitchell 81961 Body - Genuine Replacement Housing for 397 & 497 Series
The Mitchell 81961 Body is a robust, high-capacity replacement housing designed for the large-frame Mitchell saltwater spinning reels. As the structural core of the reel, this body (or housing) is engineered to maintain the precise alignment of the heavy-duty "Planamatic" gearing and the oversized main shaft required for surf casting and offshore angling.
The Mitchell 397 is the Right-Hand Wind (RHW) version of the legendary 396. Consequently, the 81961 body features the specific internal machining and handle porting required for right-hand retrieval. Whether you are repairing a vintage workhorse or performing a full restoration, this genuine part ensures the structural integrity and salt-resistant performance that Mitchell is famous for.
Product Specifications & Compatibility
This housing is designed for the largest frame size in the Mitchell spinning reel lineup, built to accommodate high-capacity spools and high-torque gearing.
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Part Name: Body / Housing
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Part Number: 81961
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Fits the Following Models:
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Mitchell 397 (Large Saltwater, Right-Hand Wind)
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Mitchell 497 (High-Speed Saltwater, Right-Hand Wind)
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Mitchell 499 (Heavy Duty Saltwater, Right-Hand Wind)
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Key Features
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Heavy-Duty Alloy Construction: Built to withstand the immense torque of large saltwater game fish without flexing or warping.
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RHW Specific Geometry: Machined specifically for Right-Hand Wind models to ensure the drive gear and handle assembly seat perfectly.
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Marine-Grade Protection: Features a corrosion-resistant finish designed to survive constant exposure to salt spray and humid environments.
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OEM Precision: Includes factory-tapped holes and machined bearing seats for a "drop-in" fit that preserves the reel’s original mechanical tolerances.
Maintenance & Installation Tip
When rebuilding a large-frame saltwater reel like the Mitchell 397, the choice of lubricant is critical to prevent internal corrosion and ensure a smooth retrieve under heavy drag pressure.
Recommendation: We highly recommend using Deuthlon Lubrication for this assembly. Apply Deuthlon Power Gear Grease to the internal gear tracks and the main drive gear seat. Use Deuthlon Cast Lube Oil on the main shaft and handle bushings to provide a waterproof, low-friction barrier that prevents saltwater intrusion.
Technical Support & Schematics
Because the 397 and 497 series utilize specialized right-hand wind timing and large-scale internal components, referencing the original factory layout is essential. You can find the detailed PDF schematics for these models at www.reelschematic.com. Referring to the schematic will ensure all internal shims, washers, and the oscillation slide are correctly placed within the new 81961 body.
