I was out wading and briefly put down my rod on the bank, where the reel (Shimano Nexave FL) was slightly submerged in water. I had no problems with it during that trip. Three days later I went out again today and the reel was seized up, it worked fine after I rinsed it off in the stream. How would you guys go about cleaning out the internals because I imagine this will only get worse as time goes on.

Since those are pretty cheap, I would buy another one and keep the old one around for parts (extra spool for a different line size?)

 

I can clean a baitcaster, but disassembling and reassembling Shimano spinning reels are a headache to me. Gotta keep close attention to where the shims were positioned so you can put it back together and it be smooth again. You can buy a new Nexave for close to the price of getting it professionally serviced.

I would say clean/lube yourself if you have the tools & ability, otherwise I would just buy a new one since it isn't a very expensive reel.

If you’re intimidated by the prospect of opening a spinning reel try the following: remove the spool, handle and side cap/screw. Oil the bearings behind the the handle and cap. Drop some oil on the main shaft into the pinion. Oil the line roller and bail hinges. If you’re lucky this will keep it going at least for a while. I’d avoid any more rinsing/dunking. 

1. Take the spool off and clean the inside.

2. Lubricate the drive shaft with the spool off, use light reel oil. Try rotating the reel handle to feel if it turns and isolates the drive shaft easily.

3. Remove the handle side side plate and drain any water. Put a dab of  reel grease on the gears and re assemble. Re install the spool and adjust the drag.

Done.

Tom 

I would attempt what is mentioned above but with idea that you might need to buy another one.  Seems they run around $50 so if you mess it up, a new one is cheaper than having it serviced. 

1 hour ago, WRB said:

1. Take the spool off and clean the inside.

2. Lubricate the drive shaft with the spool off, use light reel oil. Try rotating the reel handle to feel if it turns and isolates the drive shaft easily.

3. Remove the handle side side plate and drain any water. Put a dab of  reel grease on the gears and re assemble. Re install the spool and adjust the drag.

Done.

Tom 

Thanks, reel seems fine now. We'll see how it holds up, I would prefer not to drop another $50 on a new one.