How To Upgrade Abu Garcia BCX 6600s?

[TMF89]

I got two of these for free, and I'd like to make them catfishing/sturgeon reels. I realize the BCXs are Abu's cheapo line, and I'll probably have to upgrade gears, washers, and maybe the worm gear? Any advice on which parts specifically to swap out, and advice on replacement parts? I provided a link that shows the reel schematic and all OEM parts, but I've never done something like this, so I'm not sure exactly how to go about it. Thanks guys!

BCX Parts List

[Chris Haley]

TMF89

Google "ABU Garcia BCX 660 Reviews" There are 91 reviews to look at.  Some good info for you there.  The first one talked about the "levelwind gear" stripping.  I would start there if I were you.

Good luck

[Chris Haley]

Just for fun I cruised through all the 6600 schematics.  Look at the EXT model.  The middle gear seems to be the same, but the reel costs 3 times more than the BCX.  Not sure if it's made from a better composite or not, but for $4 it would be an easy experiment.  After looking even closer it appears to be the same but the teeth look a little beefier.  Like I said, $4.