How to Clean and Lubricate Shimano Fishing Reels

Remove the spool of the reel by unscrewing the quick takedown thumbscrew, removing the side plate, and unclipping any clips with needle-nose pliers that hold the stool in place. Spray a rag with silicon-based spray and wipe the entire reel down with the wet rag. Remove dirt, sand, salt or any other debris that may be on or in the reel.

Lubricate the bearing attached to the side plate with a small drop of oil.

Clean the internal parts of the side plate with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab. Lubricate inside of the side plate with oil. Use a cotton swab to get to hard-to-reach areas.

Clean and completely dry the spool shaft. Avoid getting any oil on the spool shaft.

Lubricate the spool shaft bearing with a single drop of oil.

Lubricate the end of the worm shaft with a single drop of oil.

Lubricate the handle shaft with a single drop of oil.

Apply a single drop of oil to the level-wind worm gear at the center.

Remove and lubricate the cast control cap. Apply one single drop of oil on the shim of the cap.

Lubricate the main bearing of the reel. Remove any clips with needle-nose pliers that block access to the main bearing before applying oil.

Apply one drop of oil to each of the handle knobs on the reel.

Reassemble the reel.