Depending on the type of fishing reel you are using, you may find a different type of lubricant works best. Generally, it’s best practice to use a lubricant specifically designed for fishing reels, as it is specifically formulated to not harm sensitive parts or leave residue that could lead to snags.
Some of the most common lubricants used to lubricate a fishing reel include lightweight fishing reel oil, multi-purpose grease and silicone spray.
Lightweight fishing reel oil is the most common lubrication for fishing reels. It is designed for use in both fresh and salt water, and it helps to protect bearings and other moving parts from corrosion.
When applying the oil, first use a small brush or cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or rust. Then apply the oil directly on the areas needing lubrication, such as the reel shaft, bearings and gears. Apply a few drops at a time, then use a soft cloth or rag to wipe any excess lubricant away.
Multi-purpose grease is another popular choice that can be used on fishing reels. It has a higher viscosity than fishing oil, and generally comes in small jars or containers that are easy to transport.
Grease is a better option for high-temperature areas such as worm gears or bearings, since it can withstand the heat better than oil and will stay in place for longer amounts of time. When applying the grease, use a toothpick or small brush to spread it over the area needing lubrication.
Silicone spray is also an option for lubricating a fishing reel. It is often sold in cans for easy application. This type of lubricant is resistant to the elements, so it is great for protecting against dust, dirt and moisture.
When applying silicone spray, you can use a paper towel or cloth to evenly apply it to the reel’s moving parts. Be careful not to over-apply and wipe away any excess spray.
Regardless of the lubricant you choose, it’s important to keep your fishing reel lubricated regularly. This will help keep it running smoothly and will help prevent damage or wear and tear.
Can you use WD-40 on fishing reels?
Yes, you can use WD-40 on fishing reels. This versatile product has many uses other than lubricating moving parts. WD-40 can also help keep your fishing reel in good shape and make it more resistant to corrosion.
The product is primarily made of mineral oil, which can help keep fishing reels in top condition by removing dirt and grime and providing waterproof protection. The product also contains other chemicals that help repel salt water and resist rust and corrosion.
When applied to a fishing reel, the lubrication does not degrade or cause issues with fishing line, making it safe for sensitive or delicate fishing equipment. However, WD-40 should not be used as a long-term lubricant and it should be applied sparingly, as it can cause build-up if used too often.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the area where WD-40 is applied is clean, without any residue or dirt, otherwise it won’t be as effective and can potentially damage the reel.
What oil do you use for a spinning reel?
The type of oil you should use for a spinning reel depends on the manufacturer’s recommendation. Generally, a light machine oil or lubrication oil is best for spinning reels to ensure that your mechanisms and gears operate effectively.
For example, Penn Reels suggests using their Reel Lube or other light machine oil for reel maintenance and lubrication. If possible, select an oil that won’t stain or be adversely affected by exposure to moisture or saltwater.
Other reel manufacturers may also provide oil specifically tailored to their reels. If aftermarket oil is used, make sure it is rated as safe for use in areas exposed to food or water. Avoid using substances like WD-40 or other multi-purpose oil as these may leave residue that can cause damaging build-up or corrosion on the components of your reel.
Additionally, avoid using household oils. Keeping up with regularly scheduled maintenance and using the right oil can help keep your spinning reel operational for years to come.
Do you oil or grease fishing reel bearings?
Yes, oil or grease should be used on fishing reel bearings. This helps to keep them operating smoothly and efficiently. When applying oil or grease, be sure to use only reel-specific lubricants. Regular household oils and greases may contain small particles or chemicals that can build up over time and damage your reel.
Start by inspecting the bushings or bearings for any signs of wear or damage. If there are signs of wear, the bearings should be replaced. Once the bearings are inspected, apply a few drops of oil or grease to each bearing.
Make sure to get the lubricant into the bearing by running it back and forth or rotating it while applying light pressure. Allow the lubricant to fully penetrate the bearing and then wipe off any excess from the outside.
Be sure to inspect and lubricate your reel bearings periodically in order to keep it operating properly.
Do I need to oil my fishing reel?
Whether or not you need to oil your fishing reel depends on the type of reel you have and the manufacturer’s recommendation for maintenance and care. For some spinning reels, oiling is not necessary because it may attract dirt and debris which can encumber the reel and cause it to require more frequent servicing.
For these reels, instead of oiling it would be better to clean it regularly using a mild detergent and lubricate the parts with specialized fishing reel lubricant, if required. All other types of reels should be oiled occasionally to keep them running smoothly and prevent them from becoming corroded or damaged.
Before oiling, you should always clean the reel to remove dirt and grime and then apply the oil in small, precise amounts to all the necessary moving parts. It is best to use a light reel oil, unless you are dealing with a higher-end reel that requires a specialized lubricant.
You should also inspect your reel at least once a year, as even with regular maintenance, parts can wear out requiring replacement. Following these steps will help you get the most out of your fishing reel and keep it in good working condition.
How often should I oil my reel?
It is important to regularly oil your reel in order to maintain its performance and extend its life. Generally, you should oil your reel at least once every 6 months if you use it often, and at least once a year if you don’t.
When oiling your reel, you should remove any dirt, debris, or salt from the drag washers, then generate a few drops of oil to each area. Apply the oil around the shaft, gears, roller bearing, and drag washers, then move the bail back and forth to spread the oil.
Wipe away any excess oil with a rag, as too much oil can attract dirt, lint, and salt. Finally, test your reel to make sure it’s functioning correctly, and that’s it!.
Is White Lithium Grease good for fishing reels?
Yes, white lithium grease is a great option to keep your fishing reel in good condition. As with any lubricant, it is important to clean the reel after each use. White lithium grease is beneficial because it won’t corrode or oxidize as easily as some other lubricants.
It also does a good job of protecting against corrosion and rust, which is important for an exposed reel like a fishing reel. In addition, white lithium grease has a low viscosity that is perfect for a fishing reel because it helps ensure smooth operation.
Since it is also water resistant, it helps protect the reel from any water that may get inside of it. All of these features make it an ideal choice for keeping your fishing reel in top shape.
What kind of grease can you use on fishing reels?
The type of grease that you should use for fishing reels can depend on the manufacturer and the model. Generally speaking, however, you should use low viscosity grease that is designed for high-speed and bearing applications.
The most common types of grease used in these situations are Teflon-based grease or lithium-based grease, both of which provide excellent lubrication for fishing reels. Using the wrong type of grease can cause undue wear on your reel, so it’s important to make sure that the lubricant you’re using is designed for fishing reels specifically.
In addition to selecting the correct type of grease, you should also make sure that you’re following the manufacturer’s instructions and checking the fishing reel periodically to make sure it’s properly lubricated.
This will help to keep your reel in optimal condition and ensure that it continues to perform at its best.
What should you not use lithium grease on?
Lithium grease should not be used on any surfaces that come into contact with food, such as kitchen utensils, cutting boards, or storage containers. It should not be used on surfaces that come into contact with water, such as faucet handles, showerheads, and spigots.
Any rubber or plastic components should not be lubricated with lithium grease because it can cause them to swell or become weak over time. Additionally, lithium grease should not be used on surfaces that are exposed to extreme temperatures such as a car engine.
If a surface is constantly wet or submerge in water, regular grease that is rated for wet environments should be used instead. Finally, because it is a petroleum-based lubricant, lithium grease should not be used on patio furniture, bike chains, or any surface that will come into contact with children’s skin.
Can lithium grease be used on gears?
Yes, lithium grease can be used on gears, as it forms a strong bond with metal surfaces and helps to reduce friction. Lithium grease is a semi-synthetic product, so it also has a longer lifespan than traditional greases.
It is designed to protect and lubricate metal parts which may be exposed to water, dust or other contaminants. The lubricity of the grease means that it can reduce wear and tear on the gears, increasing their lifespan and helping to minimize breakdowns or malfunctions.
Additionally, the high viscosity of lithium grease helps it to cling to surfaces for an extended period. Finally, lithium grease is relatively inexpensive and easy to apply, so it is often a cost-effective choice for lubricating gears.
What is the difference between regular grease and lithium grease?
The difference between regular grease and lithium grease lies in the type of base oil and the type of thickeners used in each. Regular grease typically contains a mineral oil as its base oil, along with soap thickeners that are usually made from animal or vegetable fats.
These soap thickeners provide a thick, sticky consistency and create a film that helps to protect metal parts from damage over the long run. Lithium grease, on the other hand, uses a synthetic base oil, such as polyalphaolefin (PAO) or alkylated naphthalene (AN), and is typically smaller than soap thickeners.
This means that lithium grease can penetrate tighter, more intricate spaces and form a protective film that helps to protect against the effects of water and temperature changes. It’s also more resistant to corrosion and can withstand higher temperatures than traditional grease.
Which grease is for gears?
The type of grease to use on gears really depends on the application. For heavy-duty or industrial applications, a heavy-duty synthetic grease, such as a lithium complex or a polyurea, is recommended.
These are specifically designed to prevent wear and to handle heavy loads. For lighter-duty applications, such as automobile transmissions, a lighter-grade car grease or a synthetic oil is typically used.
In either case, selecting the right grease for your application is key to ensuring the ability of the gears to handle loads, resist wear and corrosion, and lubricate correctly. It is also important to remember to always use a fresh and clean grease for the application, ensuring that the correct amount is used at the correct intervals.
Does WD-40 damage fishing line?
No, WD-40 does not damage fishing line. In fact, it can be very beneficial in keeping your fishing line in good condition. WD-40 is a lubricating oil that can help lubricate and protect fishing line from wear and tear.
It can also help reduce line tangles and line wraps by eliminating friction when casting. However, WD-40 should not be used in saltwater fishing, as the ingredients can corrode fishing line. If you’re going to use WD-40 on your fishing line, make sure to clean your line with hot, soapy water before and after application, and always be sure to follow up with a rinsing of fresh water.
It’s also important to remember that WD-40 should not be applied directly to fishing line, as it could cause it to become stiff and brittle.
How do you grease a Lews reel?
Greasing your Lews reel will help keep it in good condition and prevent corrosion. To grease your Lews reel, you will need some reel grease, a pair of gloves, and a clean rag.
First, use the rag to clean off all the dirt and grime from the reel’s handle, plate, and gears. Make sure all of the parts are completely dry before proceeding.
Next, wearing the gloves, put on a small amount of reel grease onto a clean cloth. Gently apply it to the parts of the reel you want to lubricate, including the gears, handle, and plate. Take your time and make sure you grease every part properly.
Finally, keep the area around your reel clean and store your reel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With regular maintenance, your Lews reel will stay in good condition.
