Tournament Millionmax SS-9000
The Tournament Millionmax SS-9000 is a true icon among cult classic reels. Its black finish and deep gold coloured spool make it one of the most distinctive reels of its era. So popular was this colour combination that Daiwa still uses similar black and gold retro styling on some big pit reels today. As the name suggests, this powerful reel offers an enormous line capacity, making it a popular choice for taking on the large big pits. It was released alongside the lower-specced GS-9000 and remains the more sought-after model, thanks to its higher specs and striking looks.
History
In the mid 1980s, the Millionmax GS and SS series were Daiwa’s heavy duty front drag spinning reels for heavy lines, available with two gear ratios: the 8000 series (Hi-Speed) and 9000 series (Hi-Power). In 1987, Daiwa introduced the Tournament Procaster SS-45, a super long stroke casting reel with a 45 mm stroke, lightweight Whisker carbon components, and worm gear oscillation. In 1988, these features were carried over to the new Millionmax GS-9000 and Tournament Millionmax SS-9000, succeeding only the previous Hi-Power Millionmax 9000 series. The new features significantly improved performance while also making the reels considerably lighter.
The SS-9000 was the premium variant, with better features: double the number of ball bearings, a click adjustable drag knob, a premium wooden handle knob and a premium bail kicker. It is notable that the steel main shaft is the same as that of the GS-9000, unlike other high-end Tournament models that feature a titanium alloy main shaft. This was probably because strength was preferred over lighter weight. The square drive gear also differs from the hex drive gear used in the GS-9000. In the Japanese 1991 catalogue, it carried the tagline: “The strength to land big fish and the ability to cast long distances.” It further mentions: “The 45 mm spool improves line release performance by 20%. Over 200 g lighter than previous models. The strongest large spinning reel, giving you the edge in handling.”
In 1992, the SS-9000 was introduced to Europe, first appearing in France. It was released in the UK in 1994, after being extensively tested by Kevin Nash. Its introduction to the UK was probably not originally planned, but was likely due to the success of the SS-3000, as the SS-9000 was released relatively late. Like the SS-3000, and unlike the GS-9000, it was listed in Daiwa’s specialist reel range in the UK catalogue.
The SS-9000 was discontinued after 1995, and succeeded by the TS6000T. In France, its final appearance was alongside its successor in the 1996 catalogue, just like the SS-3000.
Japanese Daiwa catalogue (1991)
German Daiwa catalogue (1995)
UK Daiwa catalogue (1995)
Releases
The SS-9000 was released for both Japan and export, including at least Europe and North America. In Japan, it was introduced in 1988. The box included a line reducer, cloth bag and maintenance kit. There are two variants of the SS-9000. Like the SS-3000 and SS-5000, it initially featured square drive gears, which changed to hex around 1993–1994. As far as is known, all other components remained identical apart from the drive gear and handle. Some argue that ‘silver label’ versions exist, featuring silver ‘SS-9000’ lettering on the side cover instead of gold. However, this is most likely simply wear to the original gold lettering, revealing the silver-coloured surface underneath.
From 1992 onwards, it was introduced across Europe. In the UK, it first appeared in the 1994 catalogue, while in France it already appeared in the 1992 catalogue. It was also listed in at least the 1995 German catalogue. The SS-9000 was discontinued in Europe after 1995, as it was in Japan, although its final appearance in the French catalogue was in 1996.
Model comparison
Compared to other 6000-9000 models, the SS-9000 stands out with its black body and rotor, combinated with a deep gold coloured spool. The black bail kicker features a roller, while the folding handle has a large premium wooden knob, both just like the TS6000T.
Technically, it sits in the middle of the 6000-9000 series. It runs smoother then the GS-9000, having an extra ball bearing on the drive gear and a ball bearing supported worm shaft. It also features a click-adjustable drag knob. The GS-9000 was released in the same year as a more affordable reel, which explains it’s lower specification. The TS6000T is technically more advanced, with extra ball bearings in the handle and a Twistbuster line roller, as it’s successor. The drive gear has a durable black almite finish on the both the square and hex versions.
Collectability
The SS-9000 remains a very popular reel. Built for strength, its low gear ratio also means a slow retrieve speed. This is its main drawback, especially compared to modern big pit reels. It is the most sought-after of the 6000-9000 series. Because of their popularity and the fact that they were originally sold in Europe, SS-9000s are still seen on the banks quite a lot. The hex version is considered rarer due to its much shorter production run. The reels hold their value well and are generally expensive when in good condition.
Specifications
All models in this group are very similar in terms of technical design. Click the button ‘6000-9000 series’ for general technical information, or further info on certain subjects below.
General specifications
- Model: Tournament Millionmax SS-9000
- Country of manufacture: Japan
- Production period:
- – Square drive: 1988 till ±1994
- – Hex drive: ±1994 till 1995
- Catalogue weight: 670 g
Body & rotor
- Body material: Whisker Carbon
- Rotor material: Aluminium alloy
- Balanced rotor: No
Internal mechanics
- Drive type:
- – Initially: Square drive
- – Later: Hex drive
- Gear material: Super duralumin
- Gear ratio: 3.4 : 1
- Osc. type: Worm gear oscillation
- Main shaft: Steel, Ø6 mm
- Anti-reverse: Ratchet, inside body
- Ball bearings: 6 (Koyo)
- – Pinion gear: 2 BB (10x20x5 mm)
- – Drive gear: 2 BB (10x20x5 mm)
- – Worm shaft: 2 BB (4x7x2 mm)
Spool & bail system
- Spool design: Skirtless spool
- Stroke: 45 mm
- Spool type: Long cast
- Spool material: Aluminium
- Spool lip: Aluminium
- Line capacity (mm/m):
- – 0.66-170, 0.74-125
- Retrieve speed: ±70 cm/turn
- Bail type: One-piece
- Line roller: U-type SiC
Drag system
- Drag type: Front drag
- Drag washers: 5 felt + 5 metal
- Clicker sound: Yes
Handle assembly
- Handle type: One-touch, foldable
- Handle shaft:
- – Initially: Black square
- – Later: Silver-coloured hex
- Handle length: 85 mm
- Handle knob: Wooden
- Ambidextrous: Yes
Schematics
See below for the original Daiwa schematic of the square drive SS-9000. Please note that the drive gear and handle for the newer hex version have a different part number.
