Calcutta 300D
TimHut
Posted 10/19/2012 8:49 AM (#591874)
Subject: Calcutta 300D


So I recently bought a new Calcutta CT300D. Last night I broke it down to see how it differed from my TE Calcuttas. Overall I was pretty impressed with it. The only part I am not excited about is the plastic line guide; I would prefer it was metal like the TE. Otherwise it was easy to break down and I like many of the features. I really do like the drag knob on the outside of the handle and the clicker built into it. It seems build well and I believe it will stand the test of time. Also the handle side sideplate has two bearings in the cast control knob to support the spool. I like this as well. So since I was not able to find this anywhere else I thought I would post the sizes of the bearings that I found so if you are like me then you can upgrade them. The two bearings under the cast control knob are 3x10x4 (BNT-0194) and 5x9x3 (BNT-4194). The Pinion Bearing was 8x12x3.5 (BNT-3927). The other sideplate bearing is 3x10x4 (BNT-0194). The spool also has a bushing behind the pin as the 400TE does. I believe this could be replaced with a bearing for increased function as well. The bushing is 5x11x3.5 (not listed).

OK, now for my questions. BOCA does not have an orange seal in 5x11x3.5 that I can find. All I see is a chrome steel bearing that size. It doesn't list an ABEC rating either. What would be the best option here? If I get all orange seal bearing except the chrome steel spool bearing is it going to slow down the orange seals that I installed? What would you do?

I think I am going to open it back up soon the re measure this bushing because now I am doubting my measurements since it seems like this is an odd size. Has anyone else opened one up and noted the same thing?
Anonymous
Posted 10/19/2012 9:03 AM (#591876 - in reply to #591874)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D


Completely unnecessary. Big cost, little to no reward.
Bane
Posted 10/19/2012 12:27 PM (#591915 - in reply to #591874)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D


Unless your survival depends upon the ability to catch fish, then all fishing gear can be classified as "unneccessary"...... Most people on a muskie forum do it as a hobby, so they spend money and collect gear just like anybody other group of enthusiasts . Can't blame them if they want the coolest , most expensive toys.
Guest
Posted 10/19/2012 12:48 PM (#591921 - in reply to #591915)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D


Bane - 10/19/2012 12:27 PM

Unless your survival depends upon the ability to catch fish, then all fishing gear can be classified as "unneccessary"...... Most people on a muskie forum do it as a hobby, so they spend money and collect gear just like anybody other group of enthusiasts . Can't blame them if they want the coolest , most expensive toys.



Only referring to the bearing upgrades Bane. Don't get your undies in a bunch. LOL!
Actually amusing that because I posted as a guest, you feel the need to react on my post. Even though it is pretty much consensus that bearing upgrades are a waste and not needed for muskie fishing. Would you challenge Pikemaster or Sworrall the same? Right. Good luck this weekend everyone.
PIKEMASTER
Posted 10/19/2012 1:01 PM (#591925 - in reply to #591874)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D





Location: Latitude 41.3016 Longitude 88.6160
Tim: on the TE I use a 5x11x3 bearing to replace the plastic bushing, I'm sure it will work, but if you do need a 3.5 then just use a washer to space out the bearing.
As far as replacing the bearings with Ceramic bearings, I would not because you will see no difference over the stock bearings casting baits over 2oz, if you are going to cast 1/2oz baits and under then you will see a small difference. Plus I hate the sound of Ceramics, they are very noisy. On Musky reels I will remove one of the seals from the stock bearings and flush the bearing in a Ultra Sonic Cleaner in Acetone for 30mins and then pack them with grease, on baits over 2oz you see no difference in casting and that bearing will stay lubed for all season as with oil you will have to relube once a week.
I have a new Calcutta 300D coming next week so after I have open it up I will post some pics of what I think of the the new Calcutta.
Bane
Posted 10/19/2012 1:06 PM (#591928 - in reply to #591921)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D


ANON- My panties aren't in a bunch as I'm going "commando" today .
TimHut
Posted 10/20/2012 8:41 AM (#592121 - in reply to #591874)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D


I do see it more as a hobby and money is not a big factor. I just like to play around with the reels and trick them out as much as I can. Also, I do plan on using it for more then Musky fishing and often throwing lures under 2 oz.
jdeezay74
Posted 10/21/2012 1:58 PM (#592269 - in reply to #591925)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D




Posts: 256


Location: plant earth
I have a few questions i have a 400 te and am interested in swapping the bushing for the bearing if you have any pics and the part # of the bearing that replaces the bushing that would be appreciated. I say if it adds ridgedity and can help performance im for it. Thanks in advanced for any help. After all its an awsome reel and then you can do little tricks that maximize its abilities. THANKS
PIKEMASTER
Posted 10/22/2012 8:11 AM (#592405 - in reply to #592269)
Subject: RE: Calcutta 300D





Location: Latitude 41.3016 Longitude 88.6160
jdeezay74 - 10/21/2012 1:58 PM

I have a few questions i have a 400 te and am interested in swapping the bushing for the bearing if you have any pics and the part # of the bearing that replaces the bushing that would be appreciated. I say if it adds ridgedity and can help performance im for it. Thanks in advanced for any help. After all its an awsome reel and then you can do little tricks that maximize its abilities. THANKS

The Bearing is a 5x11x3 and you will need a spool pin pliers or send me your reel spool and I can do it for $15.00 install
Propster
Posted 10/22/2012 12:52 PM (#592463 - in reply to #591874)
Subject: Re: Calcutta 300D




Posts: 1901


Location: MN
Speaking of spool pins Richard, when the hardened pin bends or breaks, are you able to get those out and simply replace the pin vs having to order a whole new spool? I don't think Shimano offers the pin separately as a part. Is that just a really tough press fit? I couldn't budge the one I worked on, though again it was bent. Thanks
PIKEMASTER
Posted 10/22/2012 2:15 PM (#592480 - in reply to #592463)
Subject: Re: Calcutta 300D





Location: Latitude 41.3016 Longitude 88.6160
Propster - 10/22/2012 12:52 PM

Speaking of spool pins Richard, when the hardened pin bends or breaks, are you able to get those out and simply replace the pin vs having to order a whole new spool? I don't think Shimano offers the pin separately as a part. Is that just a really tough press fit? I couldn't budge the one I worked on, though again it was bent. Thanks

Keith If the pin is fused in the spool then I'll take it to a machine shop and use a Large press on it to get it out and you have to have replacement pins made at a machine shop, ABU, Shimano or Daiwa will not sell the pins.