Shimano Metanium - What upgrades should I make?

[-Pivot-]

Hey guys,

Just picked up a Shimano Metanium DC (LH) in mint condition and in box for just over $350!

I know a few people on this site up-grade certain things on there reels like bearings and drag. Which is kind what I would like to do to this reel, and eventually the Type-R.

I know about carbonex and BOCO bearings. But what I need help on is size of bearings, where can I put more bearings, and any other up-grades (custom spools?) that I can do to make the performance at best.

Also, what do people think of the G,Loomis NRX for rod choice? Can pick them up for a tad under $600 at TackleWarehouse US delivered?

Thanks.

[Grant]

Can't help with specfic sizes but I have seen a fair bit of discussion on bearings on a another fishing forum.

If you took a tackle tour on google you may find the site in question.
They have a Maintenance & SuperTuning section and a Shimano product support section.

[-Pivot-]

Originally Posted by AtomicGrant

Can't help with specfic sizes but I have seen a fair bit of discussion on bearings on a another fishing forum.

If you took a tackle tour on google you may find the site in question.
They have a Maintenance & SuperTuning section and a Shimano product support section.

Thanks! Will have a look for sure.

I've read a few things about "Supertuning" (e.g shortening the spool shaft with a file for better casting) and it seems handy, yet knowing me I'll stuff up one way or another.

[DaiwaFreak]

Don't file down the spool shaft, that will wreck the reel. You can do some internal polishing, but I reckon its unnecessary with a new reel.

Shimano stock drags are also good, but carbontex would be better. Shimano spool bearings are 3x10x4 size for both sides. The knobs will take another bearing each, those are 4x7x2.5 size. Other than that, there isn't much to do since there isn't an upgrade spool for that reel.

[-Pivot-]

Originally Posted by DaiwaFreak

Don't file down the spool shaft, that will wreck the reel. You can do some internal polishing, but I reckon its unnecessary with a new reel.

Shimano stock drags are also good, but carbontex would be better. Shimano spool bearings are 3x10x4 size for both sides. The knobs will take another bearing each, those are 4x7x2.5 size. Other than that, there isn't much to do since there isn't an upgrade spool for that reel.

Thanks that what I wanted to hear. Do you reckon the BOCO Bearings are the best choice?

I read that slighter filing the reel spool will make free-we casting? Not gonna do it anyway.

What about the zillion, would I be able to get an ito spool for it? Considering they are the same frame? I'm sure they have bearing on the handles, not sure about the spool however.

[DaiwaFreak]

Originally Posted by -Pivot-

Thanks that what I wanted to hear. Do you reckon the BOCO Bearings are the best choice?

I read that slighter filing the reel spool will make free-we casting? Not gonna do it anyway.

What about the zillion, would I be able to get an ito spool for it? Considering they are the same frame? I'm sure they have bearing on the handles, not sure about the spool however.

BOCO bearings aren't the best choice, but from what I have heard, BOCA bearings are the best choice. I have ZPI ceramic bearings in my Antares DC7. The casting is smoother with the ceramics, and the distance is improved noticeably with the heavier baits. Whatever brand you go for, go ABEC 7 or ABEC 9's with the shields off, you should notice a difference in performance.

As for the Zillion, the best option is probably the HLC spool. Depending on your Zillion model, it may or may not be able to take extra bearings.

As for both reels, if you really want to bling it up, chuck on some aftermarket knobs, a carbon handle, and maybe a custom paintjob.

Good luck with the Metanium DC, let us know how it goes. I am interested to hear how the I-DC4 performs.

[-Pivot-]

Originally Posted by DaiwaFreak

BOCO bearings aren't the best choice, but from what I have heard, BOCA bearings are the best choice. I have ZPI ceramic bearings in my Antares DC7. The casting is smoother with the ceramics, and the distance is improved noticeably with the heavier baits. Whatever brand you go for, go ABEC 7 or ABEC 9's with the shields off, you should notice a difference in performance.

As for the Zillion, the best option is probably the HLC spool. Depending on your Zillion model, it may or may not be able to take extra bearings.

As for both reels, if you really want to bling it up, chuck on some aftermarket knobs, a carbon handle, and maybe a custom paintjob.

Good luck with the Metanium DC, let us know how it goes. I am interested to hear how the I-DC4 performs.

Haha yeah, BOCA's, that's what I ment.

Geez DF you know too much about reels and I thank you for it!

Will definately let people know how it comes along. I've been looking at bassart and Zpi handles. Will eventually get one, however I have a few more rods and reels to buy before I start any customed cosmetics.