While sorting through some stuff, I stumbled upon the package my Shimano Symetre FJ came in, along with the Shimano reel oil it came with. I know I picked this reel up brand new around 2010-2011 and never used the oil. Is it still good to use?

 

I think so.

Should be. I have an old Calcutta from 15 years ago that still has a bottle of Bantam oil in the box. I used it on this reel last year. Worked great.

thanks.

 

anyone know if the bantam oil included with current reels is of higher quality than the older oil? would i be doing my stradic FL a disservice by oiling it up with the old stuff?

AFAIK it's the same. 

To add to what I said above..... I wouldn't use it if it has gotten darker in color. I believe it oxidizes when left open or exposed to water and heat but somebody smarter than me might be able to explain it. 

 

 

 

 

mine still looks pretty light yellow, but all the text on the bottle kinda disintegrated, so i dont know if its was called bantam oil also or what. 

As long as it hasn’t become thick (like honey) or become thin (like water) I wouldn’t hesitate to use it. Put a drop on your finger and see if it’s slippery. Heck, I’ll use old open bottles of motor oil and not think twice. It’s just reel oil.

Should be good, but 4 in 1 is pretty cheap and it works just fine.  If in doubt, go new.

Oil doesn't last forever.  Even sealed in a bottle, it'll break down over time.  And 10 years is a long time to ask for any oil to remain in pristine condition.   3-5 years in a sealed bottle is about average.  

That being said, it's not like it would be dangerous to use.  It'll likely just become thicker over time, and not protect as well.  In a high stress situation like an automobile, boat, or airplane engine, I wouldn't use it.  You risk damage to the engine and worse.  People could die.  In a fishing reel, you risk casting distance.  

I have a few containers of Abu Garcia reel oil from the late 1970s/early 1980s that are still just fine.  

5 minutes ago, Big-Bass said:

I have a few containers of Abu Garcia reel oil from the late 1970s/early 1980s that are still just fine.  

I've got Abu grease and oil from about the same time - they still work just fine.

On 12/12/2022 at 7:45 AM, fish_burrito said:

While sorting through some stuff, I stumbled upon the package my Shimano Symetre FJ came in, along with the Shimano reel oil it came with. I know I picked this reel up brand new around 2010-2011 and never used the oil. Is it still good to use?

 

Spinning reel lube, you will be OK!

Tom

Been in the ground millions of years. It'll be ok.

Seasons Greetings All!

 

It is my understanding reel (like sewing machine) oil are basically mineral oil as a base. Very few additives. This is based on summary reviews of material safety sheets that are available. So unless exposed to harsh environments (temperature extreme or UV exposure) it would be reasonably stable.

 

As for the label wearing or degrading, it is probably due to some level of diffusion of the oil through the polymer bottle. The mineral oil (petroleum distillate) can act like a solvent on the ink (paint). 

 

Best fishes to you for the Holiday Season. Be well, and Cheers!

If it wasn't stored in an engine block, it'll be fine.