Mitchell Reel Forum

Hello, I’ve been servicing these two reels and have a couple of questions. The 406 has always felt a little bit loose around the rotor head, with slightly more play than I think there should be. The 306 has less of this in comparison. I dismantled the 406 pinion gear and ball bearing assembly, carefully rebuilding afterwards. I had expected to perhaps find an issue causing the play in the rotor head ,but found nothing obvious. I wondered if it was possible that a shim was missing ,or could be used if there was wear and or play in the rotor head? I have checked all schematics and can see no mention or reference to one. Any thoughts or advice ? The reel is functional but just not 100% happy that it is running to its potential. 2nd question , the 306 I have has the black plastic rotating head lock and a counterweight in the rotor marked 406. I thought the 306 had a brass nut at the head lock rather than the black plastic one found on the 406? Is it possible that my 306 has been modified with new replacement parts or from a donor reel? The 306 I have is the model with the grey metallic spool and silver detail around the outside of the rotor head. All information greatly appreciated. TIA