Explorer Reel

[Mikums]

I was looking for a back-to-school project to save my sanity once I start my 16 credit semester, and I became attracted to the design of the Dive Rite Sidewinder Explorer Reel. As I browsed the hardware store, I could not find adequate parts. So, instead of driving myself insane, I ask the following:
What parts have you (the collective internet) used to make this design? What should my shopping list look like?

 

[Mikums]

I am considering waiting until I take my school's Fabrications class, and just machining what I need, but I don't want to wait a semester.

 

[Ben Dugger]

A simple" reel" can be made from a rod or cut from plywood by forming a "U" shape at the top and bottom while cutting out the area between. This allows the rope to be wound in a figure "8". Rope wound this way will greatly reduce the tendency to kink.

Ben Dugger

 

[raftingtigger]

I've made two full-function reels. The first started with a commercial finger reel, the second was constructed from scratch (and scraps). I have a lathe, Forstner bits, Dremel router, and a tap set - but these aren't necessary. All my materials were either hardware in my shop or scraps from a local industrial plastics shop. I've offered to pay for the plastic but most of the time they give it to me for free. A saw (even hand), drill, screwdriver and file are the only required tools.

Materials used were: 3/4" thick dense plastic block (frame), 1-1/8" dia. dense plastic rod (spool center), 3/4" dia. dense plastic rod (winding knob and cord knob), 1/16" plastic sheet (reel sides), and assorted hardware. The only place you really need to tap threads is for the locking thumb screw (which I still need to shorten). A plastic kitchen chopping block is the type of plastic I've used.

Diamensions are entirely up to the builder. The one shown is 5" in diameter and has 100' of 3/16" nylon line on it. Have fun. Also if anyone wants more detailed pictures or plans I'll post if asked.