I have an old BC reel that I would like to try and take apart to clean. What products and tools do I need to do this?

Mechanical aptitude

Schematics

Small precision tools

In addition to the previous list...   Ardent makes a couple of nice reel cleaning kits.

A box, a marker, some packing tape, and a few bucks to send to the Reel Mechanic.

A box, a marker, some packing tape, and a few bucks to send to the Reel Mechanic.

;D ;D ;D 8-)

I love these smart responses!

Like Burley said, some precision tools.  

Get yourself some tools you can dedicate to reel maintenance.  And get some good ones, too.  Good ones don't cost a lot more than crappy tools.  

I have 4 screwdrivers - 2 phillips (one small, one medium) and 2 flathead (one small, one medium).  I don't like little nubby screw drivers that take bits.    If you have a reel where you have to reach through the frame, a nubby screw driver may not be long enough.  Screw drivers with the matte tip that reduced slipping it a good idea.  It's easy to booger up a screw head that is in too tight.  

A little mechanic's pick is also a goof idea.  You can use these to take retainers off bearings and take grip caps out.  

A precision socket on a driver (not a wrench) for the handle nut.  

A few small brushes.  Q-tips.  Tweezers.  

Next, a good work surface.  I keep my stuff in a medium size storage tupperware container.  The lid is a great surface to work on.  On the under side, the rim is recessed and there are little ribs all the way around.  This makes for a great way to keep little parts organized, close and most importantly, keep them from rolling away.  

Mechanical aptitude

Schematics

Small precision tools

Besides the above mentioned. I would do what most haven't or didn't do.

Find a local tackle shop with a service tech and sit down to pick his brains and watch for a few reels.

Or

You could purchase one of the many how to video's and tool sets, turn on your DVD hope the disk will play and learn that way...

Good place to start is here...

Reel Maintenance Video.

Tight Lines All!!!  8-)

Besides the obvious things mentioned:

1) an old ice cube tray makes a good place to keep screws, clips, etc.

2) don't take it apart anywhere near carpets or rugs. Lose a small piece there and it's game over.

I frequently flush the spool shaft bearings, but I have complete breakdowns done by someone else.  I'm famous for having a spare part or two left over after I put something back together .

A box, a marker, some packing tape, and a few bucks to send to the Reel Mechanic.

LOL

Or your local tackle shop, if they clean reels.

Take lots of pictures with the digital camera as you're taking it apart. Nothing like a picture when you're going, "huh, now how did that thing fit together?".

That is a good idea...too bad I don't have a digital camera. Where can I find detailed descriptions of reels at?

I can understand people wanting to be their own reel mechanic, but it doesn't work for me.  I would prefer to let a qualified tech take care of any repair needs, a few days and a few bucks and my equipment is perfect.

Besides the obvious things mentioned:

1) an old ice cube tray makes a good place to keep screws, clips, etc.

2) don't take it apart anywhere near carpets or rugs. Lose a small piece there and it's game over.

Been There ! Done That ! :'(

BB

Yeah it seems everytime I take a baitcaster apart they never work when I put them back together. I am looking at 2 right now . I am wanting to take apart my new curado to put ceramic bearings in but I think I might get that DVD first ;D

If you just want to flush the old grease & oil out of the gears etc,

without taking the reel apart, Sherwin Williams makes a dry

degreaser.

It's called Tri-flow Rapid Clean.

Just spray on and let dry.

Leaves no film or residue.

Grease & oil up your reel, and your good to go.

BB

A better choice is Birchwood Casey Reel Scrubber.  Its made for the job, and works well.  Use in well ventilated area and wear chemical gloves.  The first time I used it, I got a good huff, and it wasn't too pleasant.

Yeah it seems everytime I take a baitcaster apart they never work when I put them back together. I am looking at 2 right now . I am wanting to take apart my new curado to put ceramic bearings in but I think I might get that DVD first ;D

Replacing the spool bearings is an easy job.

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1234086142

THANKS For the link!!!  I am going to order some new bearings for my curado today!

Dan