Tutorials · Carbontex
The original brake pad heats up, slips and becomes uneven. Carbontex® is the global benchmark for carbon brake discs for spinning and casting reels.
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Developed on the Californian coast by Smoothdrag, Carbontex® is the global benchmark for aftermarket brake discs. Made from high-quality woven carbon fibre, it replaces the original felt discs to deliver a smooth, consistent braking feel that you’ll notice immediately in action.
"A fighting fish, precision tuning. With Carbontex, you no longer have to battle with your brake."
You can feel the difference straight away. On the one hand, a brake that overheats, sticks or fails. On the other, a cleaner, more progressive and more consistent response in combat.
It’s acceptable for light use, but quickly becomes a hindrance as soon as the brake needs to remain constant and precise.
The reel remains the same, but the drag system offers improved performance where it really counts.
It can be fitted directly onto the spool (Spinning) or into the reel body (Casting) in just a few minutes.
Clean all parts of the braking system with a suitable solvent: white spirit, brake cleaner or evaporating solvent. Avoid kerosene and acetone. Clean surfaces = maximum performance and durability.
Fit all the washers supplied, including those under the main gear. These base washers ensure balance and performance. Sand any reused washers with 600-grit sandpaper.
Dry assembly = very direct response. For a smoother feel, SmoothDrag recommends a thin layer of Cal's Universal Reel & Drag Grease — just a fingerprint. Grease only.
Wind the reel back up, adjust the drag and test the smoothness. No other parts need replacing. For spinning reels: done in a few minutes.
Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation and significantly extends the service life of Carbontex® discs.
Once or twice a year, or more frequently depending on how often it is used. It’s better to clean it as a precaution than to have it break down during use.
Release the brake to prevent the discs from becoming crushed during storage. A simple step that triples their service life.
Tighten whilst rinsing to ensure a watertight seal; loosen once the reel is completely dry.
A thin layer is enough — just a fingertip’s worth. Too much grease will impair performance. The only grease recommended by SmoothDrag.
Brakes are uneven or noisy → clean and lightly re-grease. This prevents gradual deterioration.
Use only white spirit or brake cleaner. Never use acetone, kerosene or harsh solvents, as these will damage the fibres.
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