Keep That Abu Garcia Reel Working
By Craig Sandell © 2010

General Maintenance

As with any piece of precision equipment, your Abu Garcia reels require routine maintenance to keep them working at peak performance.

Note: The tips in this article are applicable to any bait casting reel.

The following tips will extend the useable life of your reels and prevent fishing disappointments.

Keep the outside of your reel clean. Never lay your rod and reel on the ground. Wipe down your reels after every fishing trip. Keep the worm gear clean and lubricated. Lubricate the handle knobs regularly. If the reel doesn't sound or feel right, don't use it until you get it checked out. Don't store your reel in a wet or damp environment. Before storage, be sure to clean and lubricate your reels, then store your reels in a dry place. Oil your level wind with Abu Garcia oil before storage and loosen tile star drag. When storing your reel, keep it in a case or bag. or wrap it loosely in an absorbent, lint-free cloth. Change your line regularly, and use only high quality lines like Cortland or TUF-Line.

Annual Maintenance

You've made a major Investment in your fishing equipment. To keep your Abu Garcia reels performing at their very best, it's important to maintain them properly. Good maintenance can add years to the life to your reels. For best results, use good quality tools plus the Abu Garcia Oil and Reel Lube.

These instructions will walk you through the annual maintenance process. If you do not feel comfortable performing this procedure yourself, simply send your reel to an Abu Garcia Authorized Service Center. NOTE: There will likely be charge for this service. Remember, when servicing your reel, don't over lubricate.

ANNUAL LUBRICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the screwdriver included to remove the handle nut cover (A) and place one drop of oil on the center shaft. Use the wrench to remove the handle nut (B). Remove the handle and star wheel (C). Place one drop of oil onto the roller bearing inside the handle hub (D). NOTE: It may be necessary to remove the "C" clip in order to remove the handle. If you must remove the "C" clip, do so slowly and carefully to prevent the loss of the clip. Loosen the three thumb screws to remove the entire handle side assembly. Firmly pull the spool shaft (E) out and place one drop of oil on the shorter side of the spool shaft. When reinstalling the spool shaft, push the shaft into the side plate until you hear it click. Place one drop of oil on each spool bearing (F) located inside the end of the spool; on the side opposite the handle, you must remove the spool pinion (G) to access the bearing. While the spool is out, place a small amount of grease on the cog gear (H) and on the smaller gear of the spool pinion (G). Place one or two drops of oil on the worm gear (I). When reassembling your reel, it is important that the brake blocks (J) are pushed toward the center of the spool.