After a pretty good fight with a Striper this weekend my Cardiff 401a started clicking when turning on the retrieve and I can no longer get it into free-spool (the thumb bar does not disengage the spool). I opened it up, took the spool out and then put it back together (that is about all I know how to do) but this had no effect. If anyone has one of this type of reel and has any advice I would really appreciate it. If I can't fix it on my own I will send it to DVT but wanted to try it on my own first. Thanks

I hope this is the case, but take it apart again and sorry about that I don't know the name of this part in the inside, but there is this piece in the inside that is associated with the thumb bar. It has to be in the correct position when you close up the reel. this piece is crucial in making sure the thumb bar works correctly. Even if this piece is not in the right place, the reel can be closed and then you will think something is wrong with the reel. I think this is mentioned in the manual.

I have a 301A and encountered a similar thing until I figured it out.

Sorry I don't have the names but I bet DVT or other savvy reel guru will describe it much better.

Quick fix for no free spool:

Take the crank side off of the reel. Hold the thumb bar up with your thumb. Now set the crank side back into place and tighten the thumb screws. Depress the thumb bar and you should have free spool.

If not your not getting the small rod BNT 2650 that runs threw the thumb bar, to engage the BNT2083 clutch plate.

As far as the clicking sound you had when cranking, that is probably the BNT1472 anti-reverse pawl, that needs to be re-set (it has gotten lose and is not holding onto the BNT1927 anti-reverse ratchet), the redundant AR backup.

You will need a complete professional brake down to repair that.

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!

Re-setting the thumb bar as suggested is a good starting point. Let me know if you need further assistance.