Need advice on spool and bearings for T3-1016

[soje]

I've had 3 of the T3-1016s and 1 T3-1016SH for a long time now. I think I've put a dent in every single spool by now. I've researched a lot of the brands and models that will fit, but I don't know how they'll actually perform. I'd like to replace the spool bearings at minimum as well. I know I'm asking a lot of questions, and I appreciate anyone's help.

I probably never throw anything as light as 1/8 oz. I don't feel confident throwing 4 oz swimbaits on these reels.

Should I get different spools for light vs. heavy baits?

Can anyone recommend spools for light and heavy baits?

Can anyone recommend a good set of bearings? (I'd love to find a set that included more than just spool bearings)

Are there any other mods I could do to get more out these old reels?

[Hogsticker2]

Gram a Zpi Nrc001-m, or the PG model if you want more line capacity. They come with great Zpi bearings. I've owned many T3s, and used most every 34mm spool under the sun. The Nrc001-m is the one. Excellent weight range - can easily handle 1/8 oz on the appropriate rod. I run 8 to 12 lb fluoro on mine. Plenty of line for most applications. Great distance and excellent consistency. 2nd behind those would be the SV1012, or SV1016 (more line), from the Steez SV TW reels. You can also purchase the SLP works versions. Difference being the SV technology. Awesome in the T3, but I get roughly a 15% performance increase with the Zpi models.

[ogrich31]

My favorite spools for the T3 platform are the orange sv1000 spools (both the regular and deep). Furthest casting spools I've tried on these reels.

Second is the SLP Works 1010 spool, but I'd take the sv1000 spool over the 1010 spool as well.

I haven't tried the ZPI or sv1012/1016 spools.

[soje]

Man thanks! I didn't think I'd get such in-depth recommendations.

[IlliniDawg01]

Honestly, the stock spool from that T3 is pretty excellent for the 3/8-1oz range. The new ZPI spools are pretty hard to find now. The Zillion SV spool is also excellent, and easier to source, but the price has gone up due to popularity I think.
https://tackletrap.com/index.php?main_p ... s_id=10950

[TommyG]

Honestly, the stock spool from that T3 is pretty excellent for the 3/8-1oz range. The new ZPI spools are pretty hard to find now. The Zillion SV spool is also excellent, and easier to source, but the price has gone up due to popularity I think.
https://tackletrap.com/index.php?main_p ... s_id=10950

I agree, the stock T3-1016 spool is a great all around type spool, as is the Zillion SV, the ZPI spools are good performers but the price is a bit tooo high.

[ogrich31]

Magforce 3d works well with a lot of spools. It can take a bit of adjusting, but after you find the right settings, it's amazing. It's a shame Daiwa didn't use it in more of their reels.

[IlliniDawg01]

Magforce 3d works well with a lot of spools. It can take a bit of adjusting, but after you find the right settings, it's amazing. It's a shame Daiwa didn't use it in more of their reels.

Agreed. It was a simple and useful feature. Far better than a Zero Adjuster which no one has asked for or cared about. I do like the Tatula T Wing better than the T3 T Wing. The flip up hood was kind of a fun feature though it was not durable, but I find the T3s to be very comfortable to fish.

The Z2020 series was the best of the 3D reels but was too big and much too expensive for the average angler. I've given up hope on a Z1016 at this point.

DaveJ

[soje]

Well, I dropped my Luna 253 spool and put a real dent in the rim. Does anyone know which spools will fit in a Luna 253? Millionaire maybe? I think I’m considering trying one of these DIY reels on Aliexpress.

How are you all determining which reels are compatible? Do I just go by dimensions and make sure it’s made for Diawa? I appreciate any help.

[eklikewhoa]

Usually go by aftermarket spools and see what they cross reference with for compatibility