Those Annoying Squeaks On Reels

[Trailer]

I did some much needed maintenance on a few of my reels. I got one to quit squeaking. I put oil on the big brass gear teeth and the small brass gear that turns the spool. Also unscrewed the spool tension knob and did that as well.

 

However, one reel that wasn't squeaky now has a faint squeak. I used oil that came from the manufacturer. I'm wondering what would be the most common area of cause for the squeaks. I know grease goes on the worm drive but would you put it anywhere else?

 

Function is fine, just being picky. Thanks guys.

[0119]

You got it backwards. Light oil on the worm gear or levelwind. Grease on the main gears.

[Trailer]

10-4. I was just following Abu's manual. Unless I'm totally crazy I thought it was the other way.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Gear teeth get greased. Manufacturers may recommend grease on worm gears but it collects too much dirt in that exposed application. I split the difference and apply a light coat of 80-140 gear oil. The origin of the noise depends on whether it is on the cast or retrieve. Dry spool bearings can squeal, but I find more often that centrifugal brake shoes and. rings may be dirty. A noisy retrieve may be just the spool rubbing. It's hard to diagnose without seeing it. 

[BrettD]

My first guess would be the centrifugal brake shoes. Another place I've had make noise like you are describing is the handle knobs.

[.RM.]

My shops most common area of "causes for the squeaks"
Cranking:
crank knob bearings
bushing/bearing at the base of crank stack

Casting:
dry spool support bushing/bearings
lose brake pins "centrifical brakes" making contact with brake race
 "look for groove worn into brass ring"

There are a butt load more causes,
but as Mike stated "It's hard to diagnose without seeing it. "........ 

Tight Lines All!  

[Trailer]

Both have mag brakes and it's on retrieve. Do you guys put anything on the bearings? And what grease do you guys prefer for the rest of the reel?

[Capt.Bob]

I think from what I am reading your reel needs a complete take down, and cleaned and lubed, your comment on bearings makes it sound like you have not done this in a while, bearings need oil and if they start squeaking it doesn't take long to damage them, when I hear this it usually means it is time for a complete service If one part is dry and noisy others are probably close to the same condition, all moving parts should be lubed, I use Shimano or Cals light drag grease and a quality light reel oil, there are many. But as others have said only grease I use is on drag's and drive gears.  With oil the lighter you use the faster things will run,,,,,,,and the more often they will need re-oiling!

[J Francho]

My vote is for the knobs.  They are the first to chirp.  RM and DVT have given you the best advice.

[Trailer]

I think from what I am reading your reel needs a complete take down, and cleaned and lubed, your comment on bearings makes it sound like you have not done this in a while, bearings need oil and if they start squeaking it doesn't take long to damage them, when I hear this it usually means it is time for a complete service If one part is dry and noisy others are probably close to the same condition, all moving parts should be lubed, I use Shimano or Cals light drag grease and a quality light reel oil, there are many. But as others have said only grease I use is on drag's and drive gears.  With oil the lighter you use the faster things will run,,,,,,,and the more often they will need re-oiling!

Capt Bob, this is 1st Mate Trailer. I did a take down and oiling. What is your advice on a cleaning solvent? I only added oil, no cleaning. When I say no cleaning, I mean I followed Abu G's advice and gave it a light rinse in tap water before take down (this is Abu's reel maintenance advice). Also, what is your advice on proper cleaning of the bearings? I don't expect you guys to pinpoint the squeaks but I bet I can gather enough info to hit all the important parts and make her smooth as you, Capt Bob.

[jakeinater_eh]

if you haven't fixed the problem yet its most likely the crank handle on the reel, add some lubricant at the joints and the noise should stop