The local ponds here in NC hold big fish and also lots of moss. Yesterday me and a friend spent 6 hours between two ponds and our reels on our baitcasters got nasty. Just from reeling in the fish, sandy green junk got flung everywhere. So before I left I "dunked" both my rods in a clear part of the water off the boat to get the stuff off. It worked, but didn't really clean it. Question is what is the best procedure to clean up the reels after a day like that? One is a Pro Max Abu and the other is a Quantum. Also can tr reels be "oiled" or just leave them be. Thanks!!!

Pull the spools out and inspect to see just how much may have got in there. Also, check the worm gears. If it were my stuff, I would take the whole reel apart and inspect and clean.

Taking the plates off seem easy. What solvent to clean it and what to lube it?

I would rinse with fresh water rather than dunking in any body of water. Let the dry well before storing. The level wind is exposed and should be checked. Brush and rinse it clear of any visible debris and oil lightly. Since you saw fit to dunk the reel, the bearings should probably get a drop of oil on each.

There's much more to it than removing side plates. I recommend touching them up as described and having a pro service done during the off season.

Sounds good! I'll get them cleaned and serviced today. :-)

There's much more to it than removing side plates. I recommend touching them up as described and having a pro service done during the off season.

How much does this typically cost per reel? Now that I have a good reel amd soon another, I'd like to get it done, but don't want to get ripped off.

What kind of oil?

I offer a 10 % discount to members here off the service price of $22 ($19.80 net) as well as after market parts like drag washers, bearings etc. I do a full service which includes what some folks have an upcharge for (light polishing where apprpriate for example). Return postage is equivalent to outbound with no handling charges.

As for oil between services, the oil that came with the reel will suffice. If you don't have it, Oust is readily available in tackle shops or you can use REM oil or even 3in1 if you have it laying around. A small drop of gear oil on the level wind last a little longer than bearing oil and not be as tacky as grease.

Thanks man!!!!!!

3 in 1 oil for reels?? I always thought this was too thick for spool bearings.

3 in 1 is a hair lighter than Yellow Rocket Fuel which is our default oil in the shop.