DVT a quick question

[GRiver]

DVT

I try to do my own maintenance on my reels, oil them periodically and clean/ re-lube yearly. My cleaning is usually a WD-40 bath (works like a mini hand held pressure cleaner), and not harmful to the plastics. I 

Soak my bearings in acetone use very low air pressure to dry and clean. Then re-lube and assemble.

 

    My question to you is what’s the common mistakes that the novice reel DIY people make when doing maintenance on the gear? 
Thanks

G

 

[redmeansdistortion]

I'm not DVT, but I'll chime in.

 

The glaring things I often see are missing parts or parts not installed correctly, usually shims missing or the drag stack put back together incorrectly.  I've also had some come in that were missing screws, or worse yet, screws forced into a spot it wasn't intended for.  Then there is over greasing, and sometimes the wrong grease used as well.  When I say the wrong grease, I'm implying white lithium.  This was a popular grease used by reel services folks decades ago, some of the old timers still swear by it.  It's messy and it hardens over time.  It's fine in a pinch, as some lubrication is better than nothing, but if you leave it in there for a prolonged period of time, it will cause a headache.

[Mobasser]

I've learned here on BR to use a small model paint brush to apply grease to gears. Just enough grease to coat the gear teeth is really all you'll need.

[bulldog1935]

I keep my sports camera on a tripod at my bench.  Also, my old eyes need my Ott magnifier and lamp, and the lamp is perfect photo-temperature daylight.  

I take breadcrumb photos when taking down a reel, and have them to refer to later.  

Electrons are cheap.  

 

[little giant]

Chiming in as well. I do all the maintenance on my casting and spinning reels, both salt and fresh. After using a variety of different greases and oils, I now use Reel X grease and oil for all. Its synthetic and keeps them running smooth. Also use Cal's drag grease for the drags. Take pictures while taking apart and following the schematic when putting together. Lately, I open up new reels and found most to be lacking grease on the main gear no matter the brand.

[Alex from GA]

For grease I mix Corrosion X and grease to the consistency I like for the gears.  Works for me.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Sorry I’m late here. So far so good on advice given. WD40 is ok in the way you’re using as a degreaser. I’d recommend wiping the residue off mating surfaces of gears before applying grease just to assure max adhesion. Dry off drag components too. I’d say the biggest mistake is overthinking to a level that discourages maintenance all together. Second worst mistake is not allowing time to complete the project (likely a couple hrs first time). Next is not having a schematic handy. Remember, schematics are a parts list and don’t necessarily show assembly order or part orientation. If you ever get stuck on one, reach out.