I have a pretty new to me and mostly new Shimano Sahara 1000 that is giving me a little bit of a problem.  Starting Saturday and continuing yesterday, the reel feels like it's seizing up on me as i'm reeling it in.  It gets really hard to turn and then after some umph it turns and keeps on going with no issue until it happens again.  Is there something i can do to try and remedy this on my own (i'm a mechanical idiot, so can't get too far into taking this thing apart).  Should i just go ahead and send to DVT and have a pro do their thing?

Thanks!

OIL

What model sahara?

What model sahara?

 

1000 FE

One of the things in the past that has caused this issue on some Shimano spinning reels is a part called the friction ring.  It does require some disassembly to check the part so if you are not confident in taking the reel apart, it may be best to send it to a mechanic.

One of the things in the past that has caused this issue on some Shimano spinning reels is a part called the friction ring. It does require some disassembly to check the part so if you are not confident in taking the reel apart, it may be best to send it to a mechanic.

That's why I asked what model. The new friction rings like the one in this reel can't cause binding like the older models did. I knew someone would say it's the friction ring.

Shimano spinning reels are notorious for binding problems. You can clean it and it will be good for a while, but it will eventually start binding again. My advice is to get rid of it.

I have a previous generation Sahara 2500 in the shop for that vary reason. It is being looked at and worked on. Sadly I may not get a chance to use it until next spring. Seems like the problem has been brought up several times on the Shimano reels under $100. I have yet to have that happen on any of Shimanos higher end offerings.

I would send it in if you feel like you want to keep the reel around if not sell it. You may be able to get a good deal on a Stradic FJ if there are any of those around on clearance.

PM sent

I just serviced two Sahara 750FH and two Symetre 750FL reels. The rings that Shimano sent me were way too thick for this series of reels (part# RD8147). The Shimano parts guy told me that the old number was crossed to this new number. Not! Now I have to complain in hopes of returning to get a full refund.

 

Here's what I used for replacement rings: bicycle innertube 26" x 1 1/4" x 1 3/8" cut into 1/8" wide straight strips with scissors. They are stiff enough to cover the gap leading to the gearbox. Fit perfect!

I just serviced two Sahara 750FH and two Symetre 750FL reels. The rings that Shimano sent me were way too thick for this series of reels (part# RD8147). The Shimano parts guy told me that the old number was crossed to this new number. Not! Now I have to complain in hopes of returning to get a full refund.

Here's what I used for replacement rings: bicycle innertube 26" x 1 1/4" x 1 3/8" cut into 1/8" wide straight strips with scissors. They are stiff enough to cover the gap leading to the gearbox. Fit perfect!

I've never heard of a sahara FH, and don't understand why you would have to replace the friction ring on the newer model symetre FL. Did the ring break? Not even sure they make the symetre in the 750 size anymore.

You've totally lost me with the inner tube thing, what opening to the gearbox are you covering?

Sorry, Sahara 750FB. The gap between the body and and left side cover. Seems the real purpose of the ring is to cover this gap.I took a picture but unsure how to post.

Sorry, Sahara 750FB. The gap between the body and and left side cover. Seems the real purpose of the ring is to cover this gap.I took a picture but unsure how to post.

The purpose of the friction ring is to hold the rotor from turning when the bail is open. This keeps the bail from slamming closed on a hard cast.

Yes, found this out too! The inner tube band is just the right thickness to get it done. Won't be buying anymore rings from Shimano. Small DC stepper motor belts turned smooth side out also work.

Yes, found this out too! The inner tube band is just the right thickness to get it done. Won't be buying anymore rings from Shimano. Small DC stepper motor belts turned smooth side out also work.

The newer Shimano reels have a friction ring that looks like a gear and the whole ring turns on the body of the reel instead of the bail trip pin riding on the surface like the older models. Both terrible designs in my opinion.

Agree. Guys that eliminate the friction ring may want to use a heavier grease on the gears to prevent the bail closing on casts. Thanks for your input k3bass.