Custom reel bearings

[Blue Streak]

I have a Revo STX tore down doing some maintenance and I am toying with the idea of replacing the stock spool shaft bearings  with custom bearings. Do you think it would improve this reel that much? I am ok with the distance I get with it now. I don't know if I would benefit from the change or not.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

Unless you just want to tinker, I suggest upgrading the bearings only if the stock ones are worn out, especially if you're basically happy with the performance now.

[Blue Streak]

Yes that is pretty much where I am at right now. And there is one bearing on the spool shaft that appears to have a tapered pin holding it on and it might be a little tricky to drive out without damaging it.

[skunked_again]

I have a Revo STX tore down doing some maintenance and I am toying with the idea of replacing the stock spool shaft bearings with custom bearings. Do you think it would improve this reel that much? I am ok with the distance I get with it now. I don't know if I would benefit from the change or not.

IMO a total waste of money.

[J Francho]

No ordinary person will get "custom" bearings.  There are tons of aftermarket bearings though.  In most cases, unless the bearing is shot, an aftermarket, even one with higher specs, isn't going to improve your casts.  Here's what I think is funny....guys put high spec bearings into their reels.  And then cinch the spool tension down.  What was the point?

There are some other considerations....ceramics can run dry, sometimes are better in freezing conditions, saltwater applications, etc., but for the most part, stick with stock if nothing is broken.

In the case of Revos, I've found they respond REALLY well to removing the crap silicone based lubes, and set up with light oil and lithium grease.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

No ordinary person will get "custom" bearings. There are tons of aftermarket bearings though. In most cases, unless the bearing is shot, an aftermarket, even one with higher specs, isn't going to improve your casts. Here's what I think is funny....guys put high spec bearings into their reels. And then cinch the spool tension down. What was the point?

There are some other considerations....ceramics can run dry, sometimes are better in freezing conditions, saltwater applications, etc., but for the most part, stick with stock if nothing is broken.

In the case of Revos, I've found they respond REALLY well to removing the crap silicone based lubes, and set up with light oil and lithium grease.

x2 on the Revos responding to a proper cleaning and lube

[Blue Streak]

I agree with both of you guys on that. And Francho you are right about the lube that comes on them I have found that a little Hot Sauce and a good light grease is about all they need. They are a greeat reel and I could not be more pleased. I am going to clean and lube the stock bearings they seem to be just fine for everyday fishing.

[uicdent11]

Light grease on the bearings???

[SPEEDBEAD.]

No ordinary person will get "custom" bearings. There are tons of aftermarket bearings though. In most cases, unless the bearing is shot, an aftermarket, even one with higher specs, isn't going to improve your casts. Here's what I think is funny....guys put high spec bearings into their reels. And then cinch the spool tension down. What was the point?

There are some other considerations....ceramics can run dry, sometimes are better in freezing conditions, saltwater applications, etc., but for the most part, stick with stock if nothing is broken.

In the case of Revos, I've found they respond REALLY well to removing the crap silicone based lubes, and set up with light oil and lithium grease.

Took me a LONG time to get used to the Revo S you did for me last year.

There is such a big difference between when I sent it and when I got it back, it felt like a totally different reel.  There is much to be said for a proper clean/lube.

[Blue Streak]

Light grease on the bearings???

No never. Just use a good oil on the bearings. About the only place you really need to grease is a little on the gears.

[bilgerat]

Light grease on the bearings???

No never. Just use a good oil on the bearings. About the only place you really need to grease is a little on the gears.

You CAN grease internal chassis bearings if you like without any impact on casting.

[J Francho]

Light grease on the bearings???

No never. Just use a good oil on the bearings. About the only place you really need to grease is a little on the gears.

Uhhh, yes, bearings can and are packed in grease.  It depends on that the bearing's purpose is, and reel's application.  However, the rule of thumb is gears get grease, bearings get oil.  Worm  gears get grease though, if they are exposed, but on spinners, its grease.......ehhh, I guess there isn't a rule of thumb, LOL.

[Blue Streak]

Well we are talking about small low profile casting reels and I just can't see those small bearings rotating freely while packed in grease.

[J Francho]

Well, I'm talking from the point of view of working on 300+ reels a year.  There are only 1-3 bearings that affect spool speed.  These are the only bearings that require oil.  Whether the others requires oil, is really subjective, and the source of a TON of debate.

I'm no trying to drop rank on you or anything, just pointing out reality.  You won't ever be wrong if you only ever use oil in a ball bearing.

[Blue Streak]

I understand what you are saying. But my 35 years of experience servicing mechanical equipment says oil bearings and grease gears and don't over do it.

  What type of grease are you using on those bearings John?

[J Francho]

I use a lithium gold grease that is VERY similar to what David Green uses (sorry David, I got the stuff, or something real close).  For oil, Shimano Bantam oil has actually been in my own reels for over a year (I mostly use Daiwa reels....) and it is the stuff. Rocket Fuel is a very good option as well.  The best I've found for serious stuff is Oust Metloid, and my 11 year old skater son agrees.

[central.PA.bass]

The best I've found for serious stuff is Oust Metloid, and my 11 year old skater son agrees.

I don't know why I laughed when I read that but I did...  And that makes sense too... use what they is on skateboards.. because like fishing reels.. the bearings dont get much of a break..

[Blue Streak]

This lithium grease must be a little different that what I have worked with. I always thought they were a little sticky. Now my next question would be. How in the world do you pack those small bearings? I think it would be very difficult to pound them.

[J Francho]

This lithium grease must be a little different that what I have worked with. I always thought they were a little sticky. Now my next question would be. How in the world do you pack those small bearings? I think it would be very difficult to pound them.

Its sticky, its grease.  Kind of like chocolate frosting or caramel.  I use a tool made for packing bearings with grease.

[Blue Streak]

Yes grease is sticky but the lithium I have used was much more sticky than any other, you could stick a service manual on the wall with that stuff.

  I have learned from this discussion, though some of this is much contrary to what I have done for years. I thank you all for your input. I think I would like to try gease  in the bearings, but I am not going to invest in a special tool just to do my own reels. Oil will be fine for me as always. I guess I am just to dang old to change some things. Thanks Francho.

[J Francho]

Maybe this will help.;  I'm probably giving too much away for free, but in the interest of learning....

Shimano Curado:

http://fish.shimano.com/media/fishing/SAC/techdocs/en/Low_Profile/CU200E7_v1_m56577569830694674.pdf

These bearings would get packed in grease, for smoothness, and low maintenance:

31

3927

and the bearings under the knobs

Oil these:

194 (x 2)

3910

That give you an idea?

[Blue Streak]

Thanks for the schematic. I understand how important it is to keep the spool shaft bearings cleaned and oiled. These are crucial to casting performance. The others are bearings that I oil also.  I guess my point is, it is not practical for the average fisherman who has maybe 12 reels to clean every year to purchase a bearing packing tool. And the average person may not have the knowledge or ability to properly use one. If there is a problem with the bearings you are greasing it will show up as a rough retrieve, and if it is so bad that oil won't stop it I would replace the bearing or send the reel in for repair. I am not trying to win an argument here, but merely trying to keep it simple. I still can't see the advantage of taking the trouble to pack a bearing in grease that is not in an environment that is hot.

[J Francho]

That's why there are pros that do this.....it just isn't practical for the average guy.  There are several advantages to grease.  1. Quiet.  2. Smooth.  3. Knobs and handles don't spin free on feel baits, transmitting false vibrations.  4.  Heat can be an issue, especially with bigger fish, and light line. 5.  Keeps liquid contaminants out.

[bilgerat]

This lithium grease must be a little different that what I have worked with. I always thought they were a little sticky. Now my next question would be. How in the world do you pack those small bearings? I think it would be very difficult to pound them.

I use a tiny tipped syringe I got from a hobby shop and inject the grease into my bearings. I apply from both sides to ensure coverage. I've seen tiny bearing packers that are used by RC guys for their wheel bearings. The syringe has done ok for me.

[Blue Streak]

Thanks guys, I have learned a few things and you have given me a few things to think about. And Francho thank you for your time and effort I trust the information I get from you.