msj21xd

you could bend/twist a loop in the end of the wire, also. the video of the wire bender on hagen's site shows this. a buddy of mine makes all his s'baits this way & it's impossible for the ring to come off unless it's straightened out - split ring, not wire shaft.

thanks for the great info. i'll give them a shout next time i need a lew's part.

unfortunately, you are probably out of luck since that reel has been out of production for over 10 years. i found a guy in florida that was reported to have any & all one would need for a lews reel. sadly, when i called i was informed that he had passed away. your best bet is to try & find some used reels just like what you have to "part them out" to keep a few good ones going. i have several, myself, and i'm in the same boat you are.

thanks for the replies. i'm not too concerned with longevity of the mold. if i can get 100, or so, i'm very satisified, for i'm only wanting to duplicate an existing head for my own personal use - not wanting to mass produce to sell. again, thanks!

are these type molds suitable to pour lead in? i.e., i'd like to make a custom spinnerbait mold. thanks in advance for any tips shared!