Fixing a levelwind gear on an Abu Garcia fishing reel involves several steps. The levelwind mechanism is crucial for evenly distributing the line on the spool during retrieval. If it's not working correctly, it could lead to poor line management and potential damage to the reel or line. Here's a general guide on how to address issues with the levelwind gear:

Tools You May Need:
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head)
- Tweezers or needle-nose pliers
- Lubricating oil specifically designed for fishing reels
- Clean, soft cloth

Steps to Fix the Levelwind Gear:

1. Disassemble the Reel
- **Remove the reel from the rod** and make sure there's no tension on the line.
- **Open the reel cover** by unscrewing the necessary parts. This usually involves removing the side plate on the reel opposite the handle.
- Take note of each component's placement as you disassemble the reel for easier reassembly.

2. Inspect the Levelwind Mechanism
- Once you have access to the levelwind gear, **inspect it for visible damage** like bent parts or broken teeth.
- **Check the worm gear** (the part that moves the line guide back and forth) for dirt, grime, or damage.
- Look for any **misalignment or obstruction** in the path of the levelwind mechanism.

-Check that the idler gear and mating spool gear are not missing any teeth or have been damaged. Sometimes it's just a good idea to change them when the worm shaft is replaced.

3. Clean and Lubricate
- **Clean** all parts of the levelwind mechanism with a soft cloth. If there's heavy grime, you might use a gentle cleaner, but ensure it's safe for fishing reels. We use BrakeKleen for non rubber parts.
- **Lubricate** the worm gear and any other moving parts of the levelwind mechanism with a few drops of reel oil. Avoid over-lubricating to prevent attracting more dirt.

4. Reassemble and Test
- **Reassemble the reel** carefully, ensuring all parts are in their correct places and the levelwind gear moves smoothly.
- **Test the mechanism** by manually turning the handle. The line guide should move smoothly from one end of the spool to the other without hesitation.

5. Adjustments
- If the levelwind gear is not moving as expected, **check for any misalignment** or improper reassembly. Sometimes, the pawl needs a slight adjustment to align properly with the worm gear.

 Additional Tips:
- **Refer to the manufacturer’s manual** for specific instructions related to your model. Abu Garcia may have specific recommendations for your reel.
- **Use quality lubricants and cleaners** designed for fishing reels to avoid damaging the components.
- If the damage is severe or the gear is not fixable through cleaning and lubrication, **consider ordering replacement parts** from us to repair.

If you're not comfortable disassembling and fixing the reel yourself, it might be best to take it to a professional or a tackle shop where they offer repair services. They can provide a more thorough inspection and repair any issues without risking further damage to the reel.