Hey guys! Ever stumble upon a vintage piece of fishing gear and feel that spark of excitement? Well, that's exactly how I felt when I got my hands on a Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel. This isn't just any old reel; it's a piece of history, a testament to a time when craftsmanship and innovation went hand in hand. If you're into fly fishing, you probably know that the Martin Automatic Mohawk is a legend in the fly-fishing world. But, like any vintage equipment, these reels can sometimes need a little TLC. So, let's dive into the world of Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel restoration!

Before we jump in, a quick shout-out to the beauty of these reels. The Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel has been a favorite among fly fishermen because of its amazing design and reliability. These reels can instantly retrieve the line with the flick of a lever. This feature made them super popular and very useful when you're fighting fish. However, due to age and usage, these reels may need some attention. If you've got one of these reels, and it's seen better days, don't worry! I'm here to give you a guide on how to get that reel back in top condition. Whether it's the mainspring that's lost its zing, the pawl that's worn out, or just a general lack of lubrication, we'll cover it all.

Now, let's look at why restoring these reels is so important. Restoring a Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel isn't just about functionality, but preserving a piece of fishing history. These reels were built to last, and with a little care, they can continue to serve you well for years. Plus, there's a unique satisfaction in bringing back an old piece of equipment to its former glory. This is especially true for the Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel. If you have been looking for an engaging fly reel, look no further.

Disassembly and Initial Assessment

Alright, so you've got your Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel in your hands, and you're ready to get started. The first step is, of course, to take it apart and see what you're dealing with. Before you start, make sure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. Trust me, you'll thank me later. Also, gather the right tools; you'll typically need a small set of screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), a soft cloth or paper towels, and maybe some pliers. It's a great idea to take pictures as you go, so you can remember how everything goes back together. This is something that I always do.

Let's get started with the disassembly of the reel. Begin by unscrewing the reel foot from the reel seat. Next, remove the spool from the reel frame. This usually involves a simple release mechanism, but check your reel model, because it varies. Now, the fun begins, get ready to open the reel's side plates to access the internal mechanism. This is where you might find screws, or sometimes a clip that holds everything together. Be very careful with these, as they can be easily stripped or lost. Once you have the side plates off, you'll be able to see the internal parts, including the mainspring, pawl, and other components.

Now, this is an important part, Initial assessment. Once everything is disassembled, carefully examine each component. Look for signs of wear and tear, rust, or damage. Pay close attention to the mainspring; it's the heart of the automatic mechanism. Make sure it isn't broken, and if there's any sign of corrosion, handle it. Also, inspect the pawl, it engages with the gear on the spool to drive the automatic retrieve. Check for wear on the gear teeth. Now, inspect the other parts, such as the gears, spindles, and any levers or springs. Look for any debris or old, hardened grease. Once you've assessed everything, you'll know what needs to be repaired or replaced. It is important to know that you are working with an older reel, so you should be gentle to prevent any potential damage. In the next section, we are going to talk about cleaning.

Cleaning and Lubrication

After we've assessed all the parts of the reel, it's time to clean everything up. This is a very important part of the Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel restoration process, as removing old grease, dirt, and any corrosion is essential for smooth operation. You can start by using a degreaser. Now, you can find a lot of degreasers in any hardware store. Make sure you use a degreaser that is safe for metal parts. I recommend a non-caustic degreaser to avoid any damage. Then, use a soft brush to scrub all the parts to remove any stubborn grime. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the mechanism. Then, rinse the parts with clean water and dry them completely. This will ensure that no moisture is left behind, which can lead to rust.

Now, let's talk about lubrication. The right lubrication is very important for proper function and the longevity of your Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel. Use a high-quality reel grease and a light oil. Apply grease to the gears, the mainspring, and other moving parts that experience high friction. Use the oil for pivots, spindles, and levers. A little bit of oil goes a long way, so use it sparingly. Do not over-lubricate your reel, as this can attract dirt and debris. Always make sure to wipe off any excess lubricant. Use your own discretion when it comes to lubrication, and also consider the environment where you will use your reel. Different conditions may need a different lubrication.

Now, it is time to assemble the reel, after cleaning and lubricating all the parts. This is where your photos come in handy. Reassemble the reel in the reverse order that you took it apart. Make sure everything fits together smoothly and properly. You may need to adjust some parts to ensure everything aligns correctly. When you're putting the mainspring back in, be very careful, as it's under tension. Now, after assembling, check the reel's function. Test the automatic retrieve mechanism, and make sure that it's working properly. The reel should retrieve the line smoothly and easily. Check the drag system, if your reel has one, and adjust it as needed. After you've checked all of these things, you are good to go.

Replacing Worn Parts

If the initial assessment revealed worn or damaged parts, then now's the time to replace them. This might include the pawl, mainspring, or other parts. It's important to identify the specific parts you need and try to find replacements. Before you get the parts, identify the model number. Check the reel for a model number, which is usually stamped on the frame or the spool. This information will help you to find the correct replacement parts. Check online retailers, specialty fly-fishing stores, or forums. These places will be able to help you.

Now, when you have your parts, it's time to replace them. Here's a quick guide of the most common replacements:

• Mainspring: If the mainspring is broken or weakened, it must be replaced. Carefully remove the old spring and install the new one, making sure to wind it properly to provide the right amount of tension. I recommend you wear safety glasses when doing this.
• Pawl: If the pawl is worn or damaged, it won't engage the gear properly. Remove the old pawl and install the new one. Make sure it fits correctly. Lubricate the new pawl and gears to ensure that everything is working properly.
• Other Gears and Parts: If any other gears or parts are damaged, then they need to be replaced. Use the same process as above, make sure the new parts fit correctly and everything is properly lubricated.

Once you have replaced the needed parts, reassemble the reel. Then, test the reel to make sure everything works properly. The automatic retrieve mechanism should engage smoothly and the reel should retrieve the line without any issues. If any part of the reel still doesn't work, then you might need to inspect it again, to check for any mistakes. Also, double-check that you used the correct replacement part. With the right parts and some patience, you can extend the life of your reel for years.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even after a careful restoration, you might run into some problems. Let's look at some common issues and how to resolve them. First, if the automatic retrieve mechanism isn't working, check the mainspring and the pawl. The mainspring may not have enough tension, or the pawl may not be engaging the gear. Make sure to check the pawl and the mainspring to identify and solve this problem. Second, if the reel is not retrieving smoothly, it could be due to a lack of lubrication, or debris in the gears. Take the reel apart, clean and lubricate all the moving parts. Also, check for any obstructions.

Third, if the reel doesn't have enough power, then the mainspring may be weakened. Replace the mainspring to restore the power. Fourth, if the reel is noisy, then it might be due to a lack of lubrication or worn gears. Lubricate all the moving parts to reduce the noise. Inspect the gears for wear or damage. Fifth, if the line isn't winding evenly, then the line guide might be misaligned, or the spool might be warped. Inspect the line guide and realign it if necessary. Check the spool for any warping or damage. Sixth, if the drag isn't working properly, the drag washers may be worn or damaged. Replace the drag washers. Adjust the drag system as needed. These are just some of the most common issues you might encounter when dealing with a Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel. If you have any further issues, you can always seek help from other fly fishing enthusiasts or professionals.

Maintaining Your Restored Reel

So, you've successfully restored your Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel! Congratulations! But, the work isn't over. To keep your reel in top condition, you'll need to do some regular maintenance. After each fishing trip, rinse the reel with fresh water to remove any salt or debris. Saltwater can be very corrosive, so this is very important. Dry the reel completely before storing it. Periodically, disassemble the reel and clean and lubricate it. This should be done at least once a year, or more frequently if you fish a lot. It's a good idea to inspect the reel for any signs of wear or damage. Look at the gears, pawl, and other moving parts. If you're going to store the reel for an extended period, apply a thin coat of reel oil to protect the metal parts from corrosion. Store the reel in a cool, dry place. By following these maintenance tips, you can make sure that your Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel will provide you with many years of fishing enjoyment.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys. The Martin Automatic Mohawk fly reel restoration process in a nutshell. It might seem like a lot, but trust me, it's worth the effort. It's not just about getting a reel that works; it's about preserving a piece of fishing history and enjoying the satisfaction of a job well done. Remember, take your time, be patient, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. And most of all, enjoy the process! Happy fishing, and tight lines!