Hardy Princess

The Hardy Princess is a cornerstone of the "Lightweight" series. Unlike the modern MTX, this is a classic spring-and-pawl (click-check) reel. Its simplicity is its strength, but vintage models often suffer from "rim bind" or dried grease that has turned into a sticky varnish.

Required Tools and Supplies

• Small flat-head screwdriver: Specifically one that fits the latch cover and the drag regulator screw.

• Degreaser: Isopropyl alcohol or a mild dish soap solution.

• Lubricants: High-quality reel grease (for the spindle) and thin machine oil (for the pawls/springs).

• Cotton swabs and a soft brush.

Step 1: Spool Removal and Initial Inspection

1. Slide the latch lever: On the front of the spool, slide the small metal latch to the side and pull the spool off the frame.

2. Inspect the Spindle: Look for any scoring or dark buildup on the center spindle.

3. Inspect the Gear: Check the brass clicker gear on the underside of the spool for chipped or flattened teeth.

Step 2: Cleaning the "Gunk"

Vintage Hardy reels often contain "whale oil" or old lithium grease that has hardened over decades.

• The Frame: Use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean the internal tracks and the area around the springs and pawls.

• The Spool Hub: Clean the inside of the spool’s center hole thoroughly. If there is green oxidation (verdigris) on the brass, gently scrub it with a soft toothbrush and vinegar, then rinse and dry immediately.

Step 3: Servicing the Spring and Pawl Mechanism

The Princess features a dual-check system. Usually, one pawl is engaged while the other acts as a spare.

1. Remove the Pawls: Gently lift the pawls off their posts. Clean the posts and the holes in the pawls.

2. Check Tension: If the "click" feels weak, the leaf springs may have lost their temper. You can very gently bend them outward to increase tension, but be careful—vintage steel can be brittle.

3. Oil, Don't Grease: Place one small drop of oil on the pawl post. Do not grease the pawls. Grease will dampen the vibration and turn that famous Hardy "scream" into a dull thud.

Step 4: Lubricating the Spindle

The spindle is the only place where grease is preferred over oil.

1. Apply a small amount of synthetic grease to the base and the length of the spindle.

2. Ensure the grease is spread evenly. This prevents the "metal-on-metal" screech and protects the spindle from wear.

Step 5: Adjusting the Drag Regulator

The screw on the side of the frame adjusts the tension on the leaf springs.

• If the regulator feels stuck, do not force it. Apply a drop of penetrating oil (like WD-40 or Kroil) to the threads from the inside of the frame, let it sit for an hour, and then try to turn it.

• Once moving, apply a tiny dab of grease to the threads to prevent future seizing.

Step 6: Converting Retrieve (LHW to RHW)

If the reel is clicking loudly on the "pay out" and softly on the "retrieve," it is set correctly. To flip it:

1. Engage the opposite pawl by flipping it toward the gear.

2. Disengage the current pawl by flipping it away from the gear.

3. Ensure the drag regulator is adjusted to the new active spring.

Troubleshooting "Rim Bind"

If the spool rubs against the frame, it is usually due to a bent frame or a worn spindle bushing.

• The Fix: Check if the latch plate (the piece you moved in Step 1) is tight. If it has play, the spool will tilt and rub. Tighten the small screws on the latch cover if necessary.