Okuma Set #3 Carbon Drag Kit

Product Description

Fits: Clarion CLR 304D 454D, Clarion CLR 553L 553LS, Coldwater CW 553LS, Convector CV 55 55L 55W 55SS 55S, Cortex CZ 55W.

The Heavy Trolling Specialist: Smoothdrag Carbontex Drag Kit (Okuma Set #3)

The Smoothdrag Okuma Set #3 is engineered for the "heavy hitters" of the trolling world—large-frame reels built for downrigging for Salmon, pulling lead core for Lake Trout, or battling saltwater bruisers. While models like the Clarion and Coldwater are built with high-torque gear sets, the factory drag washers can often develop "stiction" (stick-slip) under the sustained, high-pressure tension of a deep-water troll.

Upgrading to high-density, cross-weave Carbontex replaces the factory composite stack with a system offering zero start-up inertia. This ensures that when a 30lb King Salmon or a hard-pulling Striper hits, the drag engages instantly and smoothly, preventing "shock-snaps" that often occur with aged factory washers.

Why Upgrade Your Large-Frame Okuma Troller?

• Eliminate the "Trolling Stutter": Large-diameter reels are prone to "grabbing" before they slip when set to high drag pressures. Carbontex provides a perfectly linear drag curve, allowing the line to peel off with buttery smoothness.

• Extreme Heat Management: Fighting heavy fish in deep water generates intense internal friction. Carbon fiber handles these temperatures far better than factory fiber, preventing drag "fade" or glazing during long-distance runs.

• All-Weather Reliability: These reels face cold, rain, and heavy salt spray. Carbontex is virtually impervious to moisture and won't rot or become "mushy," maintaining a consistent feel trip after trip.

• Sustainable Pressure: Maintain high lockdown power without losing the ability to make micro-adjustments to the drag lever or star.

Comprehensive Fitment & Compatibility

This kit is precision-lapped to fit the oversized internal gear stacks of Okuma’s 55 and 550-sized trolling platforms.

Technical Note: These large-frame reels often utilize a 5-washer stack. Because they are designed for heavy-duty "winching," the flatness of your stainless steel drive washers is critical. You can find high-resolution, exploded-view PDF schematics at www.reelschematic.com to verify your stack sequence.

Professional Installation & Lubrication Protocol

For heavy trolling reels, a "wet drag" setup is the industry standard for maximum smoothness and internal protection:

1. Cal’s Universal Drag Grease: Apply an ultra-thin, translucent coating of Cal’s Grease (Tan) to both sides of each Carbontex washer. This specialized PTFE grease prevents "chatter" and creates a waterproof seal for your metal drive washers.

2. Metal Washer Restoration: Check your stainless steel drive washers for any signs of "bluing" from heat or salt pitting. Polish them with 0000 grade steel wool to a mirror finish before installing the new Carbontex.

3. Main Gear Care: While the side plate is open, apply a light coating of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the main brass drive gear. This keeps the retrieve effortless under the strain of heavy weights or lead core.

4. Clicker Maintenance: Apply a small dab of grease to the clicker pawl and spring to ensure a crisp, loud sound and prevent premature wear.

SEO & Technical Summary

• Product Type: Premium Carbon Fiber Drag Washer Upgrade

• Brand: Smoothdrag (Carbontex)

• Kit ID: Okuma Set #3

• Application: Heavy Trolling / Line Counter / Saltwater Round Reel

• Key Benefits: Zero-stiction start-up, high heat tolerance, and extreme longevity.