How to Repair a Cannon Downrigger
- 1). Pull the brake lever to free the spool and pull on the end of the cable. If the cable does not rotate and pull off the spool, check the spool for a cable jam. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the cable and work it loose from the spool.
- 2). Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws from the side of the unit. Remove the plate and pull off the side of the downrigger to expose the spool. Remove any debris from the spindle area and add lubrication if the spool is not rotating smoothly. Replace the entire spool if the material is cracked or broken.
- 3). Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the crank on the spool. Hold the base of the crank with pliers to prevent spinning while you remove the screw. Replace the broken handle with a new piece and tighten the screw. Broken crank handles are a common issue on downriggers.
- 4). Remove broken rod holders by unscrewing the bolt at the base of the holder with a hex wrench. Remove the washers after the bolt and pull the rod holder out of the clamp. Replace with a new holder and tighten the bolt to clamp it in place.
- 5). Inspect the downrigger base if the unit wobbles and feels unsecured. Tighten the base bolts that connect to the boat. Replace the entire base if cracks and breaks are present.
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