What is the reason for the insufficient braking of the baitcasting reel?
3 Answers
Insufficient braking of the baitcasting reel is caused by excessive clearance between the brake pads and the hub. Below is a relevant introduction: Classification: Baitcasting reels are also known as two-axis reels, and similar ones include drum reels, which are similar in usage and working principle to baitcasting reels. The classification of baitcasting reels is often based on different braking methods, mainly including centrifugal braking, magnetic braking, and electronic braking. Centrifugal braking: Centrifugal braking is one of the earlier types of baitcasting reels. The characteristic of this type is that there are a certain number of brake beans on the side cover of the reel to adjust the braking force.
I've thought about the issue of the baitcasting reel not braking several times. Worn brake pads are the most common cause—those small plastic pellets get flattened after prolonged use and can't grip the spool properly. Another thing is whether the cover latch is pressed tight after casting; a loose cover increases play in the braking system. Last week, I saw a guy applying sewing machine oil to the inside of the spool at the river—that's a big no-no! Grease on the brake pads renders them useless; you should use a dedicated anti-rust spray instead. Aging spool bearings can also cause uncontrolled spinning, so check for any wobble. Lastly, don't forget that the adjustment knob might be tangled with fishing line, making it impossible to turn and thus failing to brake.
Anyone who enjoys sea fishing knows how deadly salt corrosion can be. If the spring in the baitcaster's brake pad rusts, its elasticity is immediately halved. Have you ever heard a 'sizzling' metal friction sound during casting? That's the spring failing to reset properly. Some anglers cut corners by installing aftermarket brake pads, but a mere 0.5mm thickness difference can cause the spool to slip. More insidiously, when the waterproof O-ring inside the drag knob degrades, seawater seeps into the brake chamber and crystallizes—opening it up reveals white salt granules lodged in the brake shoe slots. Newer magnetic brake reels fare better, but mechanical brake models require diligent maintenance.