Reel Maintainence

[chopper]

Hi,

i have got a Okuma Avenger 20 reel, which i use only for saltwater fishing.

I have used the reel to fish so far about 5 times, and its still clean, and as i remove the spool, there is enough grease on it and its clean.

Now i just want to know, how often, and when do i need to clean the old shmuck out, and apply new oil?

Also, can i use just motor oil to lubricate the parts, esp the bit where the spool sits on the metal rod.

thanks

[Davo28]

I wouldnt recommend using motor oil for the simple fact that its way too thin and would be pretty messy.
Providing you look after the reel, i mean not laying it in the sand or submersing it etc you should rarely have to lubricate the insides.
I usually pull all my reels apart once every 6 months to a year (depending on how often theyre used) and wipe off all the old grease and re apply sparingly as it goes back together. Dont go overboard with lubricant because u really only need enough to coat the parts thinly.
I use a red grease which is made by Alvey which u will find at all good tackle shops (any brand will do) and i also give them a "light" spray with CRC Tackle Guard to disperse any water that may come into contact with the reel. Both products only cost around $6 ea and last for yrs.
After each trip simply tighten the drag up (so u dont fill it up with water) and run a trickle of fresh water over the reel from the top and give it a quick spray with the tackle guard and thats it.
Dont forget to loosen the drag back off afterwards though because ive been told that it can crush fibre washers in some reels.
hope that helps
Dave.

[YipD]

For my reels maintance I only used Quantum Hot Sauce oil & gease. They are great!!!!!!!!!!!

[Angry]

THere is lots of good oils and greases for reels. Just remember to use ones that are made for wet conditions. Your average grease or oil or vasoline will turn to yukky cank when mixed with water, use a good silicon or lithium based (read made for fishing tackle) lubricant.

[kamikazeghost]

After every trip you should give it a light spray of tepid water mixed with diluted soap solution. And about twice a year, take it apart for a good clean out. i try and use the same oils they used on the reels in the first place, but not too much

[CHUNQX]

How do you get salt water out of the spool tho'?