June 25, 2026
Description
I have several Zebco spincast reels and enjoy using them. One of the least expensive of these is their Authentic 11 Micro reel (i own the older version). However, one of the two pivot tabs that hold the button on to the reel broke and the button on my reel fell out, making the reel unusable. I tried sourcing a replacement online, but had no luck in locating one; even Zebco's customer support told me they don't really stock replacement parts for such an inexpensive reel. I didn't feel too badly - I think I paid $15 for the reel, so it was no great loss. However, the reel and button went into my "when I have time to do some modeling"-box, to be looked at someday when I had a spare hour or two to model a replacement button for the reel. That someday was the other day!
I made a model in Onshape of the reel's release button based on the original, though with a few modifications to make it more 3D-print friendly. I think it came out fairly well and was really pleased with the curvature of the thumb scoop on the button (that was a fun Onshape exercise!). Though it was made to match my version of the Authentic 11 Micro reel, I think it may also work for other Zebco micro-sized reels like the 33 Gold Micro. I hope you enjoy it and it meets your needs!
For printing: I made mine with the inner surface on the print bed and supports/raft underneath. Make sure that supports under bridges are turned OFF so that it doesn't fill in the screw holes.
For installation: you need to move the spring-metal piece over from the original button or fashion a similar spring metal piece. Otherwise, the button will not snap back into position after activating the reel. There are two screw holes to accommodate the mounting screws for the leaf spring. See images for details.
License:
Creative Commons — Attribution
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