View

my Display Case and Collection.

A list of Reel Models

     Zebco Cardinal  7

Sold from 1967 to 1982
Dark green body, cream cup and rear drag knob, chrome handle and anti-reverse switch. non cone shape bail at the line guide. marked product of Sweden is small letters on foot. gear ratio 3.5 to 1 weight 14.65 oz.

First version: 1967-68 small sticker decal that reads Zebco by Abu with long metal medallion on lower section of side plate that reads Cardinal 6. small trapezoidal type handle knob that is screwed onto handle. small nipple type push button spool release.

Second version: approx, 1969 to 1970
same as first but now has small sticker decal that reads ZEBCO only, with long metal medallion.

Third version: approx. 1971 to 74
same as second but now has small SILVER metal medallion on side plate. no long metal medallion.

Fourth version: approx. 1975 to 1982
same as third version but now has a small Dark green metal medallion.
note that later models will have the larger round flatter type push button spool release. that were introduced in late 1974/early 1975.
For what ever reason the 6 and 7's were offered with a special SS bail plate from 1972 to 1974. these would have a large torpedo type handle knob.

 

Different handle knobs for the models 6 and 7:

In approx late 1970 the large torpedo type was introduced for the model 7.

In 1976 a large rectangular shape design was introduced that was flutted on the back side that was used on the 6-x and 7-x models.

By early 1977 the small trapezoidal type knob would be replaced by a small flat type knob that was now pinned to the handle.

All of these handles/ knobs are interchangeable on all models of these reels!

Thankyou Ben for your on-going help on behalf of all ABU/Zebco fans for your sharing nature in freely providing this info and these pictures

First

Second

Third

Fourth