Issues With Shimano Reel

[hoglaw]

I recently acquired a used Shimano Citica 201 at a steal (now I realize why). It casts like a dream and I didn't realize it had any problems until I got it on the water. The first fish I hooked, the reel locked up. After hanging a few more (and a couple of trees) I realized that whenever there was tension on the line, the spool would seize. I couldn't reel or anything. It would release after I fanagled it a little, but this is a seriously annoying problem. Adjusting the spool tension or the drag does not seem to have any effect. If anyone can offer any advice, I would much appreciate it. If I need to be more descriptive, let me know.

[shawncat]

Did you get it wet?I've had problems with Shimano spinning reels locking up when wet.Haven't heard if it effects baitcasters.

[hoglaw]

The reel has not been wet while in my possession. This seizing up problem only happens under tension, otherwise it reels like a champ. It does not feel like a rust problem or grit problem, but I haven't opened up the reel yet.

[fishinwrench]

Shimano owners from riversmallies.com have been complaining about the "Shimbindo" binding up issues for years. I can't believe they haven't corrected that yet, that's crazy ! Listening to them constantly cuss them has kept me from buying any of the upper tier Shimano reels. It seems the cheapies are immune to it however, so it is probably a "too close tolerance" thing related to shims and bushings. I hear tell if you dunk them or get caught in a decent rain, you are done for the day. They sure look and feel nice in the stores, but with reviews like that repeatedly surfacing I'm not gonna take a chance on them.

[hoglaw]

darn, that's not the kind of news I want to hear. Fortunately I didn't pay much for this reel, but it is a seriously annoying problem. Do the guys on that board suggest any fixes? I suppose I'll have to check it out for myself tomorrow.

[Dutch]

It could be as simple as the drag washers not being installed properly. I have been using Shimano baitcasters for years and have never experienced any binding. The spinning reels do this when the anti reverse clutch gets wet.

If you want some advice from a reel tech, call 417-887-7334 ask for Bob at the reel repair in the catalog outlet. He is pretty knowledgeable and helpful.

There is also a Shimano help forum on Bass Resource where you can post this directly to a Shimano tech.

[taxidermist]

I have a shimano that I found in the lake, it had been there a while. Cleaned it up, new grease, line and its been fine for the last two years.

[Gavin]

Shimano spinning reels are binding pieces of junk IMO. Even the lower end reals like the Spirex and Sahara..and a good cleaning and re-lube wont fix the issue. I wont buy another....

I havent heard anything bad about their baitcasters though. I'd get it cleaned and serviced before I chucked it. Cheers.

[Zelleram]

Iv been using the Shimano Spirex 2500fd for more than ten years as my main reels. I have 5 of them. Never any binding. Have Dunked them in the creek many a time. No issues with binding. Broke some gears when I caught a 20lb Asian carp on one though. And broke one trout fishing at taneycomo in 5 degre January weather. The main frame cracked.

[Gavin]

Glad you have the one that works after 10 years...I've never had one a Shimbindo spin reel last more than a season or two before it turns into a piece of junk. Love my Shimano casting reels though...