Hey all,

Just started using a baitcaster this past season.  I usually doing a thorough cleaning of my spinning reels every year.  I read somewhere that its really not as necessary to breakdown baitcasters for thorough cleaning.  Is this true?

Honestly at this pint they probly dont need it, but Im one of those people that like to tinker, so should I or shouldnt I?

BTW, no saltwater and I already took out spool and did some basic oiling and cleaning.

Thoughts for a baitcasting newbie?

Thorough cleaning at least once a year on any reel. JMHO

All reels should be serviced at least anually, more often if used heavily or under extreme conditions. Most any reel will benefit from a thorough cleaning and proper lubrication, even right out of the box.

I just dropped off all my baitcasters today for a well deserved vacation of relaxation and pampering!   

Most any reel will benefit from a thorough cleaning and proper lubrication, even right out of the box.

Seriously?  Even brand new?  Why is that?  Do they just gunk it up with too much grease from the factory?  If so, would getting all that excess grease off and replacing it with a light layer give me smoother performance? 

Thanks

Most any reel will benefit from a thorough cleaning and proper lubrication, even right out of the box.

Seriously? Even brand new? Why is that? Do they just gunk it up with too much grease from the factory? If so, would getting all that excess grease off and replacing it with a light layer give me smoother performance?

Thanks

Reels unfortunately are built with the intent of building as many as possible in the least amount of time. Excessive grease is added at times to hold components in place during assembly. You will find a mass improvement by cleaning right out of the box. I experienced this on many brands some are better then others but most will be improved.

I can tell you that if you fish with a new reel for a whole season, you may not think it needs to be lubed and oiled. But lube and oil it and you'll notice a difference.

Ok then, thanks guys.  Ill get to work.

Reels as all things mechanical, experience break in. Did you ever notice how much better you can cast after you have used your reel awhile? Parts are wearing and becoming friends As far as new reels, I plan to keep my equipment as long as possible. I want to make sure my new reel is clean and lubed from the start. Besides, I kind of enjoy taking care of my stuff.

Reels as all things mechanical, experience break in. Did you ever notice how much better you can cast after you have used your reel awhile? Parts are wearing and becoming friends As far as new reels, I plan to keep my equipment as long as possible. I want to make sure my new reel is clean and lubed from the start. Besides, I kind of enjoy taking care of my stuff.

X2

Most any reel will benefit from a thorough cleaning and proper lubrication, even right out of the box.

Seriously? Even brand new? Why is that? Do they just gunk it up with too much grease from the factory? If so, would getting all that excess grease off and replacing it with a light layer give me smoother performance?

Thanks

The factories tend to over-lube. My guess is they are combating shelf time, shipping and storage conditions and doing as many as possible as quickly as possibble. I flush even brand new bearings prior to installation and re-lube them as well. No way can a mass production unit afford that kind of attention to detail.