Neil Mackellow explains how to tune the Penn 525GS Mag reel.
The one large/one small bearing set up makes the 525GS Mag very user friendly. Initially clean the bearings and apply Red RF. If this is a little slow wash out the big bearing and add a dose of Yellow RF, leaving the smaller bearing running on Red. Brakes wise the 525GS Mag utilises the magnetic braking system from the original 525Mag. This makes it possible to alter the brake setting externally. Very useful on the beach if conditions change dramatically.
Gear ratio: 6:1
Brakes: Four rare earth magnets on a sliding carriage
Spool end tension: Set spool end float so there is just discernable lateral movement
Fishing tune: Red RF plus two blocks engaged
Pro’s: Bomb-proof
Con’s: No real vices and mag brakes to boot!
Bearing access The larger of the two bearings is in the centre of the reel in front of the main gear. Removing the spool exposes the bearing. The other, smaller bearing is found in the left end plate.
- To gain access to the spool bearings and centrifugal brakes loosen the three screws in the left hand endplate and remove
- The externally operated magnetic control
- Remove the spool to expose the larger right hand bearing
- Here the two bearings have been removed for cleaning and re-lubing with fresh oil.
Follow the step-by-step tutorial pictures below.
To gain access to the spool bearings and centrifugal brakes loosen the three screws in the left hand endplate and remove
The externally operated magnetic control
Remove the spool to expose the larger right hand bearing
Here the two bearings have been removed for cleaning and re-lubing with fresh oil
