Mike's Reel Repair is an Factory Authorized Hardy Reel Warranty Center

Hardy fly fishing reels are renowned for their craftsmanship, durability, and performance among angling enthusiasts worldwide. Established in the late 19th century, Hardy has built a legacy on providing anglers with quality equipment that stands the test of time. However, like any mechanical device, Hardy reels require regular maintenance and occasional repair to maintain their optimal performance and extend their lifespan.

This blog post aims to guide you through the technical aspects of Hardy Reel Repair. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to fix a cherished reel or a newcomer eager to learn about reel maintenance, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps to diagnose, disassemble, repair, and maintain your Hardy fly fishing reel. From common issues to detailed repair techniques, we'll cover everything you need to keep your reel in top condition.

Now, let's delve into understanding the intricacies of your Hardy fly fishing reel and embark on the journey to ensuring its longevity and reliability.

Hardy fly fishing reels are a hallmark of quality in the angling world, cherished for their robust design, precision engineering, and exceptional performance. Whether you're wading in a crystal-clear stream or casting off a rugged coastline, a Hardy reel can be your most reliable companion. To effectively repair and maintain these reels, it's essential first to understand their types, basic mechanics, and common issues that necessitate a repair.

Types of Hardy Fly Reels

Hardy reels come in various designs, each tailored to specific fishing conditions and preferences. Classic models like the Hardy Perfect and St. George are revered for their timeless design and mechanical reliability. These reels often feature a traditional click-check mechanism that provides that sought-after sound and feel. Modern Hardy reels, such as the Ultradisc UDLA, incorporate advanced materials and technology to offer improved drag systems and lighter weights, catering to contemporary angling techniques. For saltwater anglers, Hardy offers reels designed to withstand the corrosive marine environment, featuring sealed drag systems and robust construction.

Basic Mechanics of a Fly Fishing Reel

Understanding the basic components and mechanics of a fly fishing reel is crucial for effective repair. The core components include:

• Drag System: Controls the resistance applied to the reel spool to prevent line breakage. Either will be a click pawl drag or multi washer drag system.
• Spool: Holds the fishing line and can be interchangeable in many models.
• Size: Determines, usually, the size of fish you're after
  

These components work together to provide the angler with control over the line, enabling precise casting and efficient retrieval.

Identifying Common Issues

Before proceeding with a repair, it's important to recognize common issues that might affect your Hardy reel. Some of these issues include:

• Drag System Malfunction: A drag system that's too loose or tight, or inconsistent, can affect your ability to fight fish.
• Spool Problems: Difficulty in removing or attaching the spool, or wobbling during retrieval, can indicate an issue of under lubrication or seizing.
• Corrosion and Wear: Saltwater and environmental factors can lead to corrosion and wear of metal parts, impacting performance.
• Gear and Bearing Issues: Worn-out gears or bearings can lead to a less smooth operation or even reel failure.

Identifying these issues early can save you time and ensure that your Hardy reel continues to perform at its best. With a basic understanding of Hardy fly fishing reels and their common problems, we're now ready to prepare for the repair process.

Before diving into the disassembly and repair of your Hardy fly fishing reel, proper preparation is key. Having the right tools and workspace setup not only facilitates a smoother repair process but also helps prevent damage to your reel. Additionally, adhering to safety precautions ensures that both you and your reel remain in top condition throughout the process.

Necessary Tools and Materials

The complexity of fly fishing reel repairs varies, but having a basic set of tools can address most issues. Essential tools include:

• Precision Screwdrivers: For dealing with small screws found in your reel.
• Tweezers and Needle-Nose Pliers: Helpful for handling small parts and springs.
• Allen Wrenches: Some reels require specific sizes to disassemble.
• Lubricant and Grease: Specialized for fishing reels, these keep parts moving smoothly and protect against corrosion.
• Cleaning Solvents and Cloths: For cleaning parts without causing damage.

Having these tools at your disposal ensures that you're equipped to tackle most repair tasks.

Setting Up a Clean, Organized Workspace

A clean and organized workspace is crucial for a successful repair. Clear a table or desk area and lay down a soft cloth or mat to protect the reel's components. Use small containers or magnetic trays to organize screws and small parts as you disassemble the reel, preventing loss and making reassembly easier.

Safety Precautions and Handling Tips

While reel repair is generally safe, it's important to handle solvents and lubricants properly—use in a well-ventilated area and wear gloves if necessary. Additionally, handling small, sharp parts like springs and screws requires caution to avoid injury.

With your tools, workspace, and safety measures in place, you're now ready to begin the disassembly process. Proper preparation not only ensures a smoother repair experience but also significantly increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Disassembling a Hardy fly fishing reel is a meticulous process that requires patience and precision. Each model may have its unique assembly, but the fundamental steps outlined below will guide you through a general disassembly process, ensuring you're prepared to tackle specific nuances of your reel model.

Step-by-Step Guide on Disassembling Hardy Reels

1. Initial Preparation:
   • Before starting, ensure your workspace is clean and organized. Have your tools within reach and your small containers or magnetic trays ready for parts.
   • Take photos of your reel from different angles. These will serve as valuable references during reassembly.
2. Removing the Spool:
   • Most Hardy reels have a central release mechanism for the spool. Gently press or twist the release (depending on your model) and carefully remove the spool from the reel frame.
3. Disassembling the Drag System:
   • With the spool removed, you'll have access to the drag system. Use precision screwdrivers to remove any screws securing the drag mechanism, if any. Most Hardy reels with a click drag system use rivets to hold springs and clickers in place.
   • Take note of the order and orientation of each component as you remove it. Place them in your organizing tray in a way that mirrors their assembly.
4. Handle and Gear Disassembly:
   • If your repair involves the handle, usually a new handle is required. If there is no counter screw on the inside of the spool, this is a major repair and usually will need to go to the shop. For models with a counterbalance, ensure you keep track of any small washers or spacers.
   • Accessing the gears may require further disassembly. Proceed with caution, removing screws and noting their positions.
5. Cleaning as You Go:
   • As you disassemble your reel, it's a good opportunity to clean each part. Use a soft cloth and solvent suitable for fishing reels to remove dirt and old grease. Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the materials.
6. Inspecting Components:
   • As parts are removed and cleaned, inspect each for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Make a note of any parts that need replacement or special attention during reassembly.

Organizing Parts for Easy Reassembly

• Layout Strategy: As you disassemble your reel, lay out the parts in the order and orientation they were removed. This strategy simplifies the reassembly process, making it easier to remember where each piece fits.
• Use Containers: Small parts like screws and springs are easily lost. Use containers or magnetic trays to keep them safe. Labeling these containers can further aid in organization.

Tips for Avoiding Damage During Disassembly

• Gentle Force: Apply gentle pressure when removing parts. If a component seems stuck, check for missed screws or clips before applying more force.
• Right Tools: Using the correct size and type of screwdriver prevents stripping screws. If a tool doesn't fit well, it's better to find one that does than risk damaging your reel.
• Patience is Key: Rushing the disassembly can lead to mistakes or damage. Take your time, especially with unfamiliar components.

By following these steps and tips, you can successfully disassemble your Hardy fly fishing reel without causing damage, setting the stage for a thorough cleaning, inspection, and necessary repairs. Next, we will cover the cleaning and inspection process, ensuring each component of your reel is in top condition before reassembly.

After disassembling your Hardy fly fishing reel, the next crucial steps are cleaning and inspecting each component. This process not only helps to maintain the reel’s optimal performance but also allows you to identify any wear or damage early, potentially saving you from future breakdowns. Here's how to methodically clean and inspect your reel's parts.

Cleaning Techniques for Different Reel Components

1. Metal Parts:
   • Use a soft cloth or brush dipped in a mild cleaning solution suitable for metals. Gently scrub away any dirt, grime, or old lubricant. For tough residues, a toothbrush can provide extra scrubbing power without damaging the parts.
   • Rinse with clean water (if water-safe) and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth or air dry to prevent rust.
2. Synthetic Materials and Bearings:
   • Clean synthetic parts and bearings with a cloth lightly moistened with reel cleaner or gentle solvent. It’s essential to remove all traces of salt and grime, which can degrade synthetic materials and cause bearings to seize.
   • After cleaning, lubricate bearings with a drop of oil designed for fishing reels to ensure smooth operation.
3. Drag System Components:
   • Depending on the material (cork, carbon fiber, etc.), use the manufacturer-recommended cleaning method. Generally, wiping with a clean, dry cloth is sufficient. Some drag systems may benefit from a light application of drag-specific lubricant to maintain smooth performance.

Inspecting for Wear and Tear, Corrosion, and Other Damages

• Visual Inspection: Carefully examine each part for signs of wear, such as nicks, scratches, or deformation. Pay special attention to the edges of metal parts where wear is more likely to occur....edges of click pawls and click gears are especially susceptible to wear.
• Functional Inspection: For moving parts, check for smooth operation. Drag components should move freely without sticking, and bearings should spin without grittiness or noise.
• Corrosion Check: Look for any signs of rust or corrosion, especially on metal parts. Saltwater exposure can accelerate corrosion, so be vigilant if you use your reel in marine environments.
• Replacement Decision: If any parts are significantly worn or damaged, consider replacing them. Using damaged components can lead to poor reel performance or further damage to other parts.

Deciding Between Repairing and Replacing Parts

• Repair vs. Replace: Some components, like slightly worn gears, may be smoothed out or adjusted. However, severely damaged or worn parts should be replaced to ensure the reel functions properly.
• Availability of Parts: Check the availability of replacement parts for your Hardy reel model. Mike's Reel Repair offers Genuine Hardy Parts.
• Cost Consideration: Weigh the cost of replacement parts against the overall value of the reel and its sentimental value to you. In some cases, investing in repairs can extend the life of a high-quality reel, making it a worthwhile endeavor.

Cleaning and inspecting your Hardy fly fishing reel's components are vital steps in the maintenance and repair process. Not only do they help keep your reel in top condition, but they also allow you to identify and address potential issues before they escalate. With your reel's parts cleaned and inspected, you’re now ready to move on to repairing common issues that may have been identified during the inspection.

Hardy fly fishing reels, revered for their craftsmanship and durability, occasionally encounter issues that require attention. Addressing these problems promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your reel performs optimally. Here’s how to tackle some of the most common issues identified during the inspection phase.

Addressing Issues with the Drag System

The drag system is crucial for fighting fish, allowing you to apply tension to the line without breaking it. Common drag system issues include inconsistent performance, noise, or a drag that’s too loose or tight.

1. Disassemble the Drag System: Refer to your reel’s manual for specific instructions. Generally, this involves removing the spool and accessing the drag mechanism beneath.
2. Clean the Drag Components: Remove any dirt, grime, or old lubricant from the drag components. Use a clean, dry cloth for most materials.
3. Inspect for Wear: Look for signs of wear on the drag washers. Replace any that are significantly worn or damaged. If the washers have a shiny look to them, they should be replaced. This is for both carbon and plastick-ey washers.
4. Lubricate: Apply a light coat of drag-specific lubricant to the washers if recommended by the manufacturer. For certain materials like cork, a dry clean may be preferable.
5. Reassemble and Adjust: Put the drag system back together and adjust the tension to ensure it’s operating smoothly and consistently.

Fixing Spool Problems

Spool issues can range from difficulty in attaching or removing the spool to wobbling during retrieval. These can often be attributed to misalignment, damage, or wear.

1. Inspect the Spool and Reel Seat: Look for any signs of damage or deformation that could cause misalignment. From what I have seen, if the reel seat is bent, it usually means a bent frame...check closely. If the spool has a bit of a wobble to it, check first it's not play between the spindle and spool. A bent spool can be bent back....lightly! This is a cast material and will break if bent too much...be careful.
2. Check the Spindle: Ensure the spindle on which the spool sits is straight and undamaged. If the spindle is bent (tough to do), you'll need to replace it. If rusty just clean it up with a Brillo pad of 600+ grit sandpaper.
3. Lubricate Connection Points: Apply a small amount of reel grease or oil to the spool’s connection points to facilitate smoother attachment and removal.
4. Adjust Tension: If your reel allows for tension adjustment on the spool, fine-tune it to eliminate any wobble during operation.

Replacing Worn-Out Gears and Other Internal Components

Gears and other internal components can wear out over time, leading to a less smooth operation or even failure to function.

1. Identify Worn Components: During the inspection phase, identify any gears or components that show significant wear.
2. Order Replacement Parts: Source the necessary replacement parts from Hardy or Mike's Reel Repair, ensuring they’re compatible with your reel model.
3. Replace Parts: Replace worn parts in the same position as the came out of the reel.
4. Lubricate: Apply a small amount of gear lubricant to the new components to ensure smooth operation.

Detailed Instructions on Solving Specific Problems

• Sticky Handle: If the reel handle sticks or feels rough, you can try and run some cleaner through it to flush out any grit. Sometimes it takes a few tries to get the grit out. Lube with a light oil.
• Corroded Parts: For parts showing minor corrosion, use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently remove the rust, followed by cleaning and lubrication. Severely corroded parts should be replaced.
• Drag is Jerky: Can be either drag washers, worn click pawls, and/or click gear. Check all components and replace as necessary.
  

By systematically addressing these common issues, you can restore your Hardy fly fishing reel to its peak performance. Remember, patience and attention to detail during the repair process are key to achieving the best results. With your reel repaired, the next step is reassembling it and ensuring everything is back in perfect working order.

Reassembling your Hardy fly fishing reel after repairs is a critical step that requires precision and care. Proper reassembly ensures that your reel functions smoothly and reliably. Here's how to approach this phase and test your reel to ensure all issues have been addressed.

Guide to Reassembling the Reel

1. Follow Your Layout: Refer back to the layout of parts you created during disassembly. This will guide you in placing each part back in its correct position.
2. Use Your Photos for Reference: The photos taken before disassembly can help confirm the correct orientation and placement of components.
3. Apply Lubricant Sparingly: As you reassemble, apply a small amount of lubricant to moving parts, bearings, and gears. Avoid over-lubrication, which can attract dirt and debris.
4. Tighten Screws and Fittings: Secure all screws and fittings, but avoid over-tightening, which can strip threads or damage parts. Ensure everything fits snugly without forcing any components.

Lubrication Tips for Smooth Operation

• Choose the Right Lubricant: Use lubricants specifically designed for fishing reels to ensure compatibility with your Hardy reel's materials.
• Focus on Key Areas: Apply lubricant to bearings, gears, and any moving parts where metal contacts metal. A pinpoint applicator or a small brush can help in applying lubricant precisely.

Testing the Reel to Ensure Proper Function

1. Check the Drag System: Adjust the drag setting and ensure it operates smoothly across its range. There should be no sticking or inconsistency in tension.
2. Operate the Handle: Rotate the handle to check for smooth operation. There should be no grinding noise or resistance.
3. Test the Spool: Attach the spool and ensure it spins freely without wobbling. Line retrieval should be smooth.
4. Perform a Functional Test: If possible, attach the reel to a rod and cast a line. This real-world test can help identify any overlooked issues before you hit the water.

Successfully reassembling and testing your Hardy fly fishing reel is rewarding, marking the culmination of your repair efforts. With your reel back in top condition, you're ready for many more memorable fishing adventures.

Regular maintenance is key to the longevity and performance of your Hardy fly fishing reel. Here are essential tips to keep your reel functioning at its best.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

• After Each Use: Rinse your reel with fresh water, especially after saltwater exposure. Dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
• Every Few Months: Perform a basic cleaning and lubrication, even during the off-season. This prevents grime buildup and corrosion.
• Annually: Conduct a thorough cleaning, inspection, and lubrication. Consider disassembling the reel for a deep clean and inspection, depending on your usage frequency and conditions.

Do's and Don'ts in Reel Care

• Do: Store your reel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Do: Use reel covers to protect from dust and scratches during transportation.
• Don't: Over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt and lead to buildup.
• Don't: Ignore minor issues. Addressing them promptly can prevent more significant problems.

Proper Storage

• Off-Season: If storing your reel for an extended period, loosen the drag to relieve tension on the springs and components.
• Long-Term: Consider removing the line from the spool, especially if it's monofilament, to prevent "memory" from forming coils.

Adhering to these maintenance tips can significantly extend the life of your Hardy fly fishing reel, ensuring it remains a reliable and cherished tool in your angling arsenal for years to come. Happy fishing!