Heddon 8389 repair

Question
Mr.Douglas, I have a beautiful glass 8389 that is missing the butt cap insert and the lower reel retainer ring. How can I repair/replace/find parts/or otherwise make it whole again?
Thanks for any help you can offer.

Answer
Hi Steve,

I haven't seen this rod, but, I assume it has a metal reel seat...most of the 1960s vinatge glass rods did.  If it has a reel seat with a wooden insert, the basic repair would be the same but the approach would be a little different.

Your best bet is probably to replace the reel seat.  Finding the right parts might be a lengthy chore and might never pay off.

Most dealers in rod building components sell reel seats of all types and you can probably find one that is very close to what you have on the rod now.

The reel seat is glued in place.  On a metal seat I usually cut a slot lengthwise along the reel seat using a dremel tool and cutting wheel.  Then pry the seat away from the blank and remove it.  Fit the new reel seat snugly using shims as needed to make it snug, then glue it in place.

If you prefer, find a local rod builder and have the work done by him or her.  It is not a real difficult task and any experienced builder should be able to do it for you.

Thanks,  Joe