Lews American Hero AH1H AH1SH

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s American Hero (AH1H & AH1SH)

The Lew’s American Hero series is the backbone of the Lew’s lineup, known for its reliability and its mission to support veterans' programs. The AH1H (6.4:1) and AH1SH (7.1:1) are right-handed models built on a lightweight, one-piece graphite frame with High Strength Solid Brass Speed Gears®.

Because these reels utilize a graphite construction, they are incredibly resistant to corrosion, but they require a "soft touch" during maintenance—especially when tightening screws into the composite frame.

Step 1: External Disassembly (Right-Handed)

1. Handle Assembly: Remove the small retainer screw. Use a 10mm nut driver to remove the handle nut (Counter-Clockwise to loosen). Pull off the 95mm bowed aluminum handle and the star drag.

2. Spring Washers: Beneath the star, locate the two bowed Belleville Washers. For the drag to have its full range of pressure, they must be reinstalled in an opposing orientation ().

3. Spool Access: On the bottom of the palm-side plate, locate the side plate release pin. Rotate the plate and remove it. Carefully slide out the Anodized Aluminum U-spool.

Step 2: The Magnetic Control System (MCS)

The American Hero series uses an Externally Adjustable Magnetic Control System. This is a "non-contact" brake, meaning it relies on magnetic fields rather than friction shoes.

• Magnets: Use a dry cotton swab to wipe the magnetic bank inside the side plate. Do not oil or grease the magnets. Lubricant here will trap dust and grit, which creates a "drag" that ruins your casting distance.

• Spool Surface: Wipe the flat outer rim of the aluminum spool with a dry cloth. This is the surface the magnets interact with. If it gets oily, your braking will feel inconsistent.

Step 3: Interior Brass Gears & Rulon Drag

1. Opening the Gear Box: Remove the three side plate screws.

   Graphite Caution: You are threading metal screws into a graphite composite. Always start the screws by hand to ensure they aren't cross-threaded. Tighten until snug, but never force them, or you will strip the frame.

2. Solid Brass Gears: These gears are rugged but will collect "black gunk" (metal wear particles mixed with old grease) over time.

   • Action: Scrub the teeth with a toothbrush and 90% isopropyl alcohol until they are clean.

   • Greasing: Apply a thin, even coat of synthetic grease to the main gear.

3. Rulon Drag System: This reel uses Rulon washers (15 lb max drag).

   • The Rule: Rulon is a self-lubricating material. It performs best when dry and clean. Adding grease here will actually lower your max drag and create a "mushy" feel. Wipe them with a dry cloth only.

Step 4: Lubrication for the 5-Bearing System

• Casting Bearings: Locate the two main bearings (one in the side plate, one behind the tension knob). Apply one drop of thin high-speed oil to each.

• Worm Gear (Level Wind): Clean any debris or "pond scum" out of the level wind track. Apply a single drop of oil or a tiny dab of grease.

• Zero-Reverse Clutch: This is the large roller bearing in the side plate. Keep it clean and dry. If the handle starts "slipping" backward, flush the bearing with alcohol. One drop of oil is the absolute limit. Never grease this bearing.

AH1H / AH1SH Troubleshooting & Specs

Common Issues:

• Handle "Back-Play": This means the Zero-Reverse bearing is contaminated with oil or grease. Flush it with alcohol to restore the "instant" stop.

• Screeching on the Cast: This is almost always a dry bearing inside the Tension Knob. Unscrew the knob, remove the shim, and add one drop of oil to the bearing.

• Thumb Bar Sticks: Apply a tiny dab of grease to the sliding plastic "clutch cam" inside the gearbox where the thumb bar engages the metal kick lever.

Pro Tip: Always store your reel with the Drag Star backed off (loose). This prevents the Rulon washers from compressing permanently, ensuring the drag stays smooth and consistent for your next trip.