Can you use WD-40 to clean rods and reels?

[Ohiopondfisher]

I was wondering if you can cleans reels with WD-40 without it hurting the rod or reel? If not how do you clean them?

[RoLo]

 

WD-40 is basically a penetrating oil with an infatuating aroma, something I wouldn't apply on my reels.

For superficial cleaning I'd use something like '409' or 'Simple Green'.

[OnthePotomac]

Do a search on this subject.  A lot on here about WD 40.   I hate the stuff for my fishing gear.

[WRB]

What happened to the all the replies?

Tom

[frosty]

I used to use wd-40 on my fishing reels, but now that I've gotten a couple nice reels I expect to last my lifetime, I went out and bought some reel oil and greese. It doesn't cost much and does a better job that the wd 

[Catt]

2 hours ago, WRB said:

What happened to the all the replies?

Tom

 

IDK

[Jeff H]

WD-40 is a tick poor lubricant if you count on it as such and there are better penetrating oils.  It is better used as a solvent to cut grease if you must use it on your reels.  Just don't use it as a lubricant.

[Further North]

I learned this a long time ago with regards to using WD-40 on a shotgun:  The WD in WD-40 is for "Water Displacement".  It's great for that.

 

If you need to move water out, it'll get the job done.

 

In a shotgun...and in a fishing reel...it'll leave behind a coating...a residue.  That residue is not your friend.  You have lots of better choices, use WD-40 for it's made for.

[kickerfish1]

I wouldn't put WD-40 anywhere near any of my rods or reels.