Product Description
Shimano 10ST0 Worm Shaft (BNT5660) | Curado K Series Level Wind
The Shimano 10ST0 Worm Shaft (BNT5660) is a high-precision drive component found in Shimano's modern low-profile baitcasting reels. It is the core of the level wind system, featuring cross-hatched helical grooves that guide the line winder back and forth. This ensures that the fishing line is laid evenly across the spool, which is critical for preventing "dig-ins" and achieving long, smooth casts.
In the Shimano part numbering system, 10ST0 is the modern global identifier for the component listed as BNT5660 on legacy schematics. This specific shaft is typically found in left-hand retrieve models, as the threading direction is mirrored compared to right-hand versions.
Product Specifications
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Part Name: Worm Shaft / Worm Gear
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Shimano Part Number: 10ST0
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Alternate Part Number: BNT5660
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Material: Precision-Machined Nylon or Plastic
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Function: Drives the horizontal movement of the line guide assembly.
Compatible Reel Models
The 10ST0 (BNT5660) is a staple part for the Curado K series, particularly the left-hand (201) sizes. It is a direct fit for:
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Shimano Curado K (Left Hand): CU201K, CU201HGK, CU201XGK.
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Shimano Tranx: Select 200-sized left-hand models (Verify via specific schematic).
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Shimano Scorpion MGL: Select JDM 151 sizes (Verify via schematic).
Technical Note: In baitcasting reels, the worm shaft for a Right-Hand reel (e.g., CU200K) and a Left-Hand reel (e.g., CU201K) are not interchangeable. This is because the grooves are cut in opposite directions to sync with the handle's rotation. Always confirm your reel's retrieve side before ordering.
Maintenance & Lubrication Recommendation
The worm shaft is highly exposed to the elements, as the line guide opening allows salt, sand, and water to reach the gear. To keep it spinning smoothly, we recommend Deuthlon Lubricants:
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For the Helical Grooves: Apply a few drops of Deuthlon Power Cast Oil. This ultra-thin, high-speed lubricant allows the shaft to rotate with zero resistance, which is essential for maintaining maximum casting distance.
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For the Level Wind Guard: A light coating of Deuthlon Reel Gear Grease on the external guard or pipe can help shed water and prevent grit from entering the internal worm shaft area.
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Cleaning Tip: Use a cotton swab (Q-tip) dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean old, gritty grease out of the grooves before applying fresh lubricant.
Why Use Genuine Shimano 10ST0?
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Optimized Line Lay: The depth and pitch of the grooves are factory-calibrated to match the spool width, preventing "bunching" at the edges of the spool.
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Hardened Surface: Shimano’s OEM shafts are treated to resist the "grooving" that can occur from thousands of hours of the Line Guide Pawl (10BHQ) traveling across the metal.
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Perfect Sync: Guarantees that the Idle Gear (BNT5659) meshes without vibration, maintaining the "Shimano Smooth" feel throughout the life of the reel.

