How to Oil & Grease a Baitcast Reel

When it comes to lubricating and greasing baitcasting reels, the biggest part of the task is cleaning the reel first. Baitcasting reels are exposed to salt, mud, grime and any number of lubrication-stealing elements. As accumulation increases, the reel becomes harder to use. Break open the reel, clean it thoroughly and then lubricate the small moving pieces of the device.

Things You'll Need

  • Shallow pan
  • Degreaser
  • Small screwdrivers
  • Bowl of warm soapy water
  • Toothbrush
  • Clean rags
  • Lubricant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a shallow pan with degreaser. Unscrew the baitcasting reel housing cap and remove.

    • 2

      Remove the spool and wash the housing, spool and internal parts using warm, soapy water and a toothbrush. Be sure to get into the small spaces of the bushings and pinion -- the large rod where the spool rests. Use a rag to dry and wipe off the parts once clean.

    • 3

      Unscrew the bushings -- the gears off the spool -- and the pinion. Place them into the degreaser and soak for about 10 minutes. Remove the parts and wipe them off with rags.

    • 4

      Apply one light coat of lubricant to the bushings and pinion. Screw them back onto the reel.

    • 5

      Give the sides of the spool a light coat of lubricant. Place the spool back into the reel and screw into position.

    • 6

      Unscrew the handle and wipe down the threads. Add a light coat of lubricant or bearing grease to the threads. Screw the handle back onto the reel.

    • 7

      Place the housing back onto the reel and screw on the head cap.