Mitchell Reel Forum

Hallo Mates!
I've just cleaned a clogged up 304 (-S ?)--purrs like a kitten now.
Now the cover plate merely reads "Mitchell 3-0-4".
Yet it lacks the crosswind cam (part 81 133 [65] on a normal 304 from the years 1953-1972): judging by the schematics it should therefore be a '304 S', which (I suppose elegantly) incorporates the function of the crosswind cam into the drive gear (now labelled 82 014).
So here is my question: would the 304 S normally state "304 S" on the cover plate? In that case, someone used a leftover 304 cover plate on my 304S reel.
Thank you to the knowledgeable ones amongst you!
Tight lines,
Johnny.

Hi Johnny,
Prior to 1959 the 304 had planamatic gearing, then from 1959 through end of production it had crosswind gearing. The only difference between the 304S and the 304 is the engraving on the faceplate, the anti-reverse lever, the handle and the main gear. All of the parts on the 304 and 304S are interchangeable. So it's impossible to know if you have a 304S with a 304 faceplate or a 304 with a 304S Main Gear - either way, these are great reels to collect and to fish with!

Kind Regards,
Chris