Planer reel question

[rdebadts]

Guys- for those of you with experience in electric planer reels: do you prefer the Cisco reels or big jon? I am going to replace my manual reels (at least one)- just curious what you all think!

[Big Water]

No experience with Big Johns. I have Cisco and love them. Supposedly, the Ciscos have the more powerful motor. They pull my Otters Boats with double keels in without breaking a sweat.

[TileMan Dan]

No experience with Cisco's. I have Big John's and they pull my double keeled otters in with out any problems also. Sounds like your still at square one..Good Luck with your decision.

[Rich D]

Cisco's hands down!!!! They are more powerful, and don't leak!!!

Capt Rich

[TileMan Dan]

I'll take your word on being more powerful. You lost me with the leak? These are electric motors, no ?

[Tim Bromund]

Cisco's pull my ridiculously hard pulling Amish Outfitters Redwood boards in with ease.

 

Tim

[Rich D]

Yes, the BJ have been known to leak, allowing water into the motor housing and burning out the motors.

Capt Rich

[troubles]

My BJ work good but  from what I hear you should go with Cisco!

[TileMan Dan]

good to know Rich.  Will have to put a nice coating of silicone over leak points..  Thanks for info.

[troubles]

Extra large condom! LOL.

[John E Powell]

I have experience with both systems. The Cisco are the stronger more durably built product and I'd recommend them for pulling the really hard-pulling boards like the Amish Outfitters, but the BJ will get the job done for many people with more modest needs. If price is a lesser concern for you, IMO the Cisco are worth the extra $.

[Broadhorizons]

I've owned both also. Big Jobs worked fine with the dbl keel otters when I had them and also with the hard pulling boards from Hank I run now. After maybe 3 seasons they died and I upgraded to Cisco.

Cisco pull the same boards fine but slower. I've used them 1 season now. So far, I consider it a cosmetic upgrade since I can't speak on their longevity yet. They are much nicer with the mounting adjustability though.

Price is getting pretty close between both now too.

Edited January 22, 2016 by Broadhorizons

[Yankee Troller]

I've pulled big 3' long boards and double keel otters with my Big Johns, and thy have never let me down, but when I do it again I will be buying a set of Ciscos.

[rdebadts]

Thanks all. They are relatively close in price now, so I really appreciate your input!

[AnglingAddict]

I bought a set of Cisco electrics this year. I know a lot of people say the have more powerful motors - but I think honestly they are just geared lower which gives them more torque. Motors I think draw same current and voltage as the big Jon's. Regardless - they pull hard. Are a bit on the slow side but that's fine. They look great and if anything are overbuilt - so I have no worries with regard to longevity. Great reels.

[Broadhorizons]

I also think the same about the power Bob. I just booked mine to my Big Jon switches and same fuses and they've operated fine.