The first thing I always do with a new reel is tear it apart. Soak all the
bearings in acetone. I use a small stick with a pointed end to place the
bearing on and spin it - soak it more - repeat until I know it is clean. I
then soak them in a lubricant that forms a micro bond with the metal. I take
them out of the oil after 10 min. and let them drain an a paper towel.

Reassemble the reel and I am good to go for three months. I use Stradics and
Ambasadeurs. I have tried the others but my money is in reliability. Light
lubrication whether it be oil on bearings or grease on the gears is the key.
You are right about overlubing/greasing any reel, just plain bad.

A whole drop of oil an a bearing is too much. Half a drop is all you need. I
use a toothpick to lube the gears, all you need is a thin coat, wipe all
excess off before reassembling. If it has teeth grease it, if not use oil.


It's refreshing to hear someone else take the maintainence of their reels to
this level. It guarantees one thing from your investment....smooth operation
for the lifetime of the reel, which is also greatly extended by the measures
that you take.


-Jim Jr.
www.teamhornerfishing.com