i want to modify a Fuji ACS into a split reel seat ( yeah i know they make them and are gonna be available at a later date) . so what grit sand paper/emory cloth would i need to have the reel seat look like it came from the factory !! is it possibible to have it turn out really smooth?? thanks , i know you guys have modified reel seats before and know the route to perfection !!!

I cut them, sand them with whatever is on the dremel then a buffing wheel. Never had a complaint about how they look or feel.

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AD

you can sand and buff out scratches from cutting. be careful not to allow the piece to get too hot while buffing as it can melt the "graphite/plastic" seat. if you buff it will change the look slightly. you can lightly hit it with 800 grit sandpaper and restore it to the original look if you desire the matte look.

800 grit for a final finish, I sanded all the hard lines off my ACS seat starting with 80 grit. and worked my way down to 800.

thanks guys , i think i might have to buy a few extras to practice on !! appreciate it !!!

Hey Guys,
Can somebody post a picture of a split reel seat?
I think i understand but I need a picture.
thanks,
mikeb

Home Town,Gretna VA

Peter,
The simple way to make a split reel seat from a conventional reel seat is to use a hack saw, band saw, jig saw, abrasive cut off wheel or other to cut the reel seat as needed. i.e. the fore reel seat and the back reel seat.

If you trim threads off of the reel seat, be careful to not trim too many threads, which wouldn't allow you to install your reel.

Then, simply take a bolt or solid blank material that you can chuck into an electric drill. Build up the blank or solid material with masking tape, until the reel seat is a tight fit on the built up arbor.

Finally use the variable speed drill to spin the reel seat against sand paper, or preferably a belt sander to smooth the edges as needed.

If you have a buffer or buffing wheel, you can then finish it off with the buffer or very very fine grit sand paper.

Good luck
Roger

Not the ACS seat, but here was a pic posted showing a before and after.
[www.rodbuilding.org]

Thanks MIke!
When you do this the reel seat must be the same size as the blank??? or real close,, correct??
thank,
mikeb

Home Town,Gretna VA