I bought a Tatula off of my friend for a $40, great deal and its been my work horse for the last year. last weekend the clutch didnt engage  and now im wondering if i should move on or send it in for repairs.  

 

what would yall do?

It is all depends, if you can find local reel repair guy, it might cost you some but might be a matter of small parts like spring. Ask if they will do estimate and how much it cost to just open up the reel.

Since you said you are in Philly I have an idea for you. This week the BASS Elite guys are here in Harford CO MD fishing the Bay. They launch on the Bush River froma local county park. If you come down to watch them that park is right next to Flying Point Marina. On their property is a VERY good reel repair place. It is called Reel Perfection. I have known the owner for decades. He has always done good work and a phone call to him would be advised.

The address is  324 Flying Point Rd, Edgewood, MD 21040.  phone  (410) 676-0027. You could drop the reel off then go enjoy the BASS event which is to be held at Cal Ripken Stadium just off route 95.

The Tatula reels are definitely workhorses and if he is in there I would have him do a complete cleaning and maybe upgrade a few bearings too. You would get a nice reel back.  That is what I would do.

It takes a long time for me to throw out a rod or reel.  I have a problem with hoarding.

If you'd like an estimate you can send it in. Likely just needs cleaning. If not, I'll repair or return. I also buy reels for parts. 

40 minutes ago, Happybeerbuzz said:

It takes a long time for me to throw out a rod or reel.  I have a problem with hoarding.

I can relate.

Jus' sayin'

 

Tom

3 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

If you'd like an estimate you can send it in. Likely just needs cleaning. If not, I'll repair or return. I also buy reels for parts. 

how much would a cleaning be and what kind of turn around time is it? should i strip my line off in case i choose not to repair it?

8 hours ago, YoTone said:

I bought a Tatula off of my friend for a $40, great deal and its been my work horse for the last year. last weekend the clutch didnt engage  and now im wondering if i should move on or send it in for repairs.  

 

what would yall do?

The main issue is that with the cost to ship and insure the package along with the price for a cleaning will be close to what you paid for the used reel. That is assuming nothing is wrong as a repair would be even more expensive. So unless you love the reel or the price isn't too much you'd be better off buying a brand new reel but the biggest determining factor on whether it is worth the repair is knowing what model Tatula it is.

19 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

If you'd like an estimate you can send it in. Likely just needs cleaning. If not, I'll repair or return. I also buy reels for parts. 

I have been doing business with Mike for several years now. With proper maintenance a quality reel

can last a lifetime.