I have been using Lews oil made by Lucas, and I normally put 3 drops, 1 on either end and one in the center to be distributed along the worm gear.

 

Is there a better oil? should I flush the gear and its housing with something occasionally? Maybe ligher fuel? Then dry and re-oil.

 

I want the very best for my level wind.

I have used Break Free CLP on my level wind gears for decades. Comes in a little 1 oz bottle w/applicator and will last a very long time.

Tom

I use Yamaha gear oil (taken from leftovers in the bottle after servicing my outboard), applied with a syringe.

1 hour ago, WRB-2.0 said:

I have used Break Free CLP on my level wind gears for decades. Comes in a little 1 oz bottle w/applicator and will last a very long time.

Tom

What Tom said.    I would either completely tear down and clean the reel or apply a cleaner / lube and call it good. 
 

I used to ride around with a few bait casters in the bed of my truck.  The normal day to day road grime and dust ruined my level wind pawls.  I no longer ride them around and have no issues.   Keep them clean.  If not a clean and lube product would be a move in the positive direction.  

I don’t like grease on level winds as it tends to collect debris. Yes keep it clean and oiled. I’ve settled on gear oil as a compromise providing lubrication, staying put and not gumming up. 

I've been using Lucas reel oil for a number of seasons with no misgivings. I also use their Super Duty grease for casting reels sold under the Lew's label. They're quality products, IMO.

Check that level wind gear frequently and keep it clean. Too much oil will just attract dirt, so don't overdo.

Good thread as I just cleaned the level winds on all my baitcasters yesterday. As well as all the guides (pond fishing really collects a lot of gunk from algae and other assorted pond scum lol). Yeah, not a big lover of using grease on exposed parts. Oil is definitely a better lubricant. Easier to clean and doesn’t hold contaminants as much as oil. 

I have been using ReelX Oil and on anything with teeth Reel X Grease. Just remember what ever you use don't over do it.