Lews BB2C

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Speed Spool (Vintage BB2C)

The Lew’s BB2C is a classic "Silver" series baitcaster, manufactured during the era when Lew Childre partnered with Shimano to set the standard for modern low-profile reels. The BB2 designation typically signifies a larger line capacity than the standard BB1, while the "C" represents the Classic or Casting configuration.

This reel is built like a tank, featuring a one-piece aluminum frame and solid brass internals. If you have inherited one or found it in a vintage shop, it likely just needs a "deep clean" to remove decades of petrified grease.

Step 1: External Disassembly (Right-Handed)

1. The Handle Assembly: Remove the screw from the handle nut retainer. Use a 10mm nut driver to remove the handle nut (Counter-Clockwise to loosen). Pull off the handle.

2. Star Drag & Tension: Spin off the star drag. Underneath, you will find the Belleville Washers (spring washers).

   • Note: For the drag to work correctly, these must be stacked in an "opposing" position (). This creates the spring tension needed to apply pressure to the drag stack.

3. Spool Access: Unlike modern "quick-release" reels, the BB2C side plate is secured by three screws. Remove them and pull the palm-side plate away. Carefully slide out the spool.

Step 2: The Brass Drive Train

1. Opening the Gear Side: Remove the housing screws on the gear-side plate. These screws are vintage; use a screwdriver that fits perfectly to avoid stripping the heads.

2. The Main Gear: You will find a massive Solid Brass Main Gear.

   • Cleaning: Old grease in these reels often turns into a thick, brown wax. Use 90% isopropyl alcohol and a stiff toothbrush to scrub the teeth until the brass is bright and clean.

   • The Drag Stack: The BB2C uses a multi-disc drag system. If the washers are brittle or feel like hard plastic, they are likely original and may need replacing. If they are flexible, wipe them dry. These vintage systems were designed to run completely dry.

3. Pinion Gear & Yoke: The pinion is also brass. Check the "notches" at the end—if they are rounded, the reel will "slip" when you try to reel in a fish.

Step 3: The Mechanical Anti-Reverse (The "Dog")

Modern reels are silent, but the BB2C is known for its "click." This comes from the mechanical Anti-Reverse Pawl (the "dog").

• The Mechanism: This is a small metal arm that catches a notched wheel at the base of the drive shaft.

• Maintenance: If the handle spins backward, the dog is stuck in old grease. Clean the pawl and the notched wheel thoroughly.

• The Rule: Apply one drop of oil to the pawl. Do not grease this part. Heavy grease will prevent the pawl from moving fast enough to catch the teeth, causing the anti-reverse to fail.

Step 4: Centrifugal Braking System

The BB2C features the original 2-Pin Centrifugal Brake System.

• Brake Collars: These are the small plastic "hats" on the spool shaft. Ensure they aren't cracked. If you need more braking power for windy days, make sure both are clicked "out."

• The Friction Hub: Inside the side plate, there is a metal ring where the brakes rub. Wipe this ring with alcohol to keep it clean.

• Tuning Tip: If the reel makes a high-pitched "zing" during the cast, the ring is too dry. Apply a microscopic amount of oil to a cotton swab and wipe the ring.

Step 5: Lubrication & Reassembly

1. Gears: Apply a moderate coat of synthetic grease to the teeth of the main gear and pinion.

2. Bearings: These vintage bearings are built to last. Flush them with alcohol, dry them, and apply one drop of thin oil.

3. Worm Gear (Level Wind): This is the most exposed part of the reel. Apply a light coat of grease. If the line doesn't stack evenly, check the Pawl (the small tooth under the worm gear) for wear.

BB2C Troubleshooting & Specs

Pro Tip: When putting the gear side plate back on, make sure the Pinion Yoke is sitting flat. If the plate won't close flush, do not force the screws. Wiggle the handle slightly until the brass gears mesh, and the plate will snap into place.