SUBJECT: # 37283: Penn International 2 speed conversions - Questions

Submitted by Bill (172.159.233.136) from CONNECTICUT on 4/10/02 7:33:00 PM

I've had a 50TW for quite a few years and am considering having it converted to a 2 speed to gain some cranking power. Anyone had this done? Who does the best job and is it a smart thing to do, or should I just buy a 50SW?

1. 4/10/02 7:45:00 PM Submitted by Farallon (67.104.23.66) from CALIFORNIA says West Coast Source
   Here is a link to one vendor

   http://www.cals2speed.com/info.html

   Another Vendor is Larry Cofeen, but I can't find his contact info.

   Both of these shops have a large/dedicated following among left coast long range fishermen.

   Cal is featured in a Penn ad, he caught a large yellowfin using a penn 30 graphite lever drag.

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2. 4/10/02 8:55:00 PM Submitted by bonefish from TENNESSEE says Cal's conversions...
   Cal's does a great job but it takes several months sometimes. 2-speeding your 50TW is only $175.

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3. 4/11/02 8:26:00 AM Submitted by KenG (63.106.133.17) from NEW JERSEY says Calif Tackle BB
   This is the place to get all the ins and outs for that conversion - probably a dozen guys there who have already done it: http://www.sport-fish-info.com/dcforum/cgibin/dcboard.cgi?az=list&forum=tackle

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4. 4/11/02 10:54:00 AM Submitted by Thor (63.102.55.2) from CALIFORNIA says Cal's does good work
   I bought most of my reels already 2speed, but Cal's has two speeded a Penn 30 and a 12LT for me. Very good work. I also Recommend the blueprinting/bearing/sleeve work depending on your needs. Call 'em and talk to them. They're good people. Note: the Penn add with Cal shows the 200#+ YFT caught with a Penn 15KG on 60# test. Thor

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5. 4/11/02 11:54:00 AM Submitted by Matt (192.31.86.35) from FLORIDA says dumb 2-speed questions..
   Does the process add a higher gear for faster retrieves or a lower gear for more power? I can understand the desire for a faster retrieve. But a lower gear for more power, why? What's wrong with pump and reel? Do you just lay the rod on the gunwale and crank or what?

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6. 4/11/02 12:14:00 PM Submitted by Farallon (67.104.23.66) from CALIFORNIA says Answers for Matt
   But a lower gear for more power, why? Think of the physics behind gearing, same as a bicycle or car. Low gear for more power, you go slower, but you are moving.

   What's wrong with pump and reel? Try that on a 200lb + tuna. You may not be able to "turn the crank".

   Do you just lay the rod on the gunwale and crank or what? Yes, that method works. Some west coast anglers are having custom "rail rods" made, and they lay/rest the rod on the rail and crank. As opposed to using a stand-up harness.

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7. 4/11/02 6:17:00 PM Submitted by Bill (172.136.201.22) from CONNECTICUT says Called Cal's Today - Thanks nsmg
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8. 4/11/02 9:41:00 PM Submitted by Alex from GA from GEORGIA says Matt
   They add a lower gear for the reason Farallon said. I had a 50 done by Cal a few years ago and have no complaints.

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