Hardy LRH Lightweight 17 00

The Hardy LRH Lightweight is a classic click-and-pawl fly reel known for its longevity and simple, elegant engineering. Because these reels are built to last decades, most "repairs" are actually deep-cleaning tasks or simple part replacements.

Essential Tools and Preparation

Before opening the reel, ensure you have a clean, light-colored workspace so small springs don't disappear.

• Small Flathead Screwdriver: Precision size for the latch cover and spring screws.

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol or mild dish soap.

• Lubricants: High-quality reel grease (for the spindle) and light reel oil (for the pawls).

• Soft Brush: An old toothbrush works perfectly.

Disassembly Procedure

1. Removing the Spool

Push the small chrome lever on the face of the spool (the latch) toward the spindle and pull the spool straight off the frame.

2. Accessing the Internal Mechanism

The LRH uses a symmetrical twin-check system. You will see two triangular pawls and two long flat springs.

• Note the Orientation: Take a photo of how the pawls are currently seated. One is usually engaged (touching the gear), while the other is a "spare" held in reserve.

3. Removing Parts for Cleaning

• Pawls: These usually lift straight off their posts.

• Springs: If the springs are rusted or lost their tension, unscrew the small retaining screws at the base of the spring.

• Latch Assembly: Only remove the screws on the spool face if the latch is sticking or the spring inside the latch cover is broken.

Common Repairs and Fixes

Addressing a Weak Drag (Clicker)

If the reel is over-spooling or the click sounds "mushy," the flat springs have likely lost tension.

• The Fix: Remove the spring and very gently bend it outward to increase the pressure it exerts on the pawl. If the spring is cracked or "dead," it must be replaced with a genuine Hardy spring.

Converting Between Left and Right-Hand Wind

The LRH is reversible. To switch the wind direction:

1. Disengage the active pawl by turning it away from the gear.

2. Engage the opposite pawl by flipping it so the point catches the gear teeth.

3. Adjust the regulator screw on the rim of the reel to apply pressure to the newly active spring.

Fixing "Wobble" or End-Play

If the spool feels loose on the frame:

• The Spindle: Check the spindle screw on the back of the frame. If it is loose, tighten it carefully.

• Wear: If the brass bushing inside the spool is worn out from decades of use, the spool may need a professional re-bushing. This is one of the few repairs that cannot be done with basic hand tools.

Cleaning and Reassembly

1. The Deep Clean

Soak the metal frame and spool in warm soapy water to remove old, hardened grease. Use the toothbrush to scrub the gear teeth on the back of the spool; grit here causes the "grinding" feel often mistaken for a mechanical break.

2. Proper Lubrication

• Spindle: Apply a small amount of grease to the center spindle.

• Pawls and Gear: Apply one drop of light oil to the pawl posts and a light film of oil to the gear teeth. Do not grease the gear teeth, as this will dampen the classic Hardy "shriek" and attract dirt.

3. Final Assembly

Slide the spool back onto the spindle. You should hear a distinct "click" as the latch engages. Rotate the spool in both directions to ensure the pawl is clearing the gear correctly and the tension regulator is functioning.

Maintenance Tip

Always store your Hardy LRH with the tension regulator turned to the lowest setting. This prevents the flat springs from taking a "set" and losing their elasticity over time.