R3EF mooching reel mods - any one done them?

[Hot-Streak]

I recently picked up 2 R3EF Mooching reels. Since they are very similar to trophy XL QR reels physically (yes I know they have a different carbon drag) I was wondering if anyone has tried the islander reel spring mods or click spring mod?

Just to be clear - there are discussions on here about people modifying their Trophys with islender parts with good results. I am curious to know if anyone has done similar things to their R3EF reel and if it was a noticeable improvement.

 

[SpringVelocity]

I didn't find it was needed and they are very different from trophy. The drags totally different and pretty much clamps down like the TR3.

Not sure the benefit is for more force on carbon drag.

The only thing that went on mine was clicker sound which I hate anyway. Just dinner bells for seals.

 

[PEETZcanada]

The reason the R3EF seems very close to a Trophy is because It was developed by the main person that developed both reels. He was the owner of REDL Distribution. He did a great job of the R3EF reel, great value and good trouble shooting service from his new company.

 

[Hot-Streak]

I didn't find it was needed and they are very different from trophy. The drags totally different and pretty much clamps down like the TR3.

Not sure the benefit is for more force on carbon drag.

The only thing that went on mine was clicker sound which I hate anyway. Just dinner bells for seals.

Good point, I've landed a few Chinook with my R3EFs and found them to be pretty good.

I was more just curious if anyone had played around with modifications

 

[SpringVelocity]

Good point, I've landed a few Chinook with my R3EFs and found them to be pretty good.

I was more just curious if anyone had played around with modifications

I just had one of these R3ef go down last few weeks. It is really screwed. Almost seems warped. Going to pull it apart tonight and see what gives.

 

[SpringVelocity]

Found it. The inner bearing where the reel was touching the carbon fiber drag surface, and was not seated and pressed in. Most likely bad tolerance when they did press fit. This might have been issue day one as you can see the drag is not beeing applied evenly. Not even close to even wear.

I gave bearing edge it wack ,and set it back in flush. Crappy I gauged the aluminum a bit, and should have used a mallet. Still should be fine.

Basically people should inspect these periodically. It can making the reel wobble and cause drag issues. I will have to watch that closer. I might get the springs just for fun.

Only other negative is that both my reels the anodizing has completely come off on outer edge.

 

[HoochieMama]

I've got a couple R3EF reels and they've been totally reliable in heavy rotation the last two seasons. The carbon drag has worked very well, no rigger creep, and the reduced maintenance is nice. Haven't felt the need to explore any modifications as of yet.

My take is they're a very good value and I'd recommend them without hesitation. My other reels are Luhr Jensen Legacies, which are heavier and have the traditional cork drag.