Upgrade kit for Shimano Spheros 14000FA

[ahistick]

I previously posted that there is an upgrade kit for the Shimano Spheros 14000FA. Its a very popular reel in Australia. While US anglers upgrade the stock felt-like drag washers with carbontex washers from Smoothdrag.com, the Aussies modifications include a few more parts. In fact, Bluewater-Tackle-Surf-Dive-Marine Australia sells a whole kit.

The kit consists of a Stella handle and knob, ARB bearing for the right side of the main gear (to replace a bushing), an aluminum cap for the other side of the handle hole, and the carbontex washers. Since ordering the parts from Australia may be restrictive, Che' Carson, Bluewater.net.au included the parts numbers.

ARB bearing: RD8202
Stella handle: RD8356

He indicated that the installation of parts are simple and requires no modification or shimming.

Lastly, according to Kilsong, the Saragosa handle fits the Stella, so using the Saragosa handle may bring the cost down some.


Bluewater Kit


To provide a counterpoint, I did contact Shimano; of course, they don't necessarily endorse the upgrade. Here's the info that I received:

I would not recommend changing anything on the reel. The drag system is fine in the stock configuration. Replacing the bearing on the right side requires removing the main gear assembly. If the wear pattern is disturbed the reel will not feel correct after reassembly. The bearing can also vary in thickness and will typically need shimming to make the gear pattern feel correct.

The handle can be changed if you want the model with bearings. This simply makes the reel feel smoother when turning the handle.

We do not recommend any Cal Sheets products and your warranty will be voided with any modifications to your reel. I realize you purchased this reel used but we still stand behind our products.

Dan
Product Support Specialist
Shimano American Corp.



Hope this help those who want more info. I have two Spheros 14000 and both have greased carbontex drag washers in it. If I went fishing more, I would consider the other upgrades.

[ahistick]

Received the carbontex drags and couldn't wait until the weekend. Lightly greased and installed the drags on the 14000FA and the Biomaster 8000PG. You can tell the difference instantly as you tighten down on the drag knob. The The drags feel smoother and definitely stronger.

Will try to fine my drag scale tomorrow to check out max pull with the reels on a rod...

[HUNTER II]

We must be on the same page - I replaced the drag washers in my 14000FA last week with the carbontex - I lubricated the washers with Cal's grease and cranked the drag down in increments until it maxed out at 22 lbs - Recognize that the washers are brand new and have not yet been run in - I'm not sure whether the end result will be up or down once the drag has been ripped by a couple of fish - Think it may go up as the drag drys out a bit

[SkeeterRonnie]

once you get them burned in and the excess grease squeezed off.. you will be suprised. hook up the bumper of you car and have someone drive off a few times.

[jig]

I got close to 30# drags with my greased CT drags. I stopped because I was getting that uncomfortable feeling.