Lews American Hero Camo AHC1SH

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s American Hero Camo (AHC1SH)

The Lew’s American Hero Camo (AHC1SH) is a right-handed, high-performance baitcaster built on a lightweight graphite platform. It features the signature "HeroCam" pattern and is designed for durability and ease of use. Key internals include High Strength Solid Brass Speed Gears®, a Rulon Drag System, and an externally adjustable Magnetic Control System (MCS).

Because this reel uses a graphite frame and a specialized finish, maintenance requires a "gentle but thorough" approach to preserve the camo pattern and avoid over-stressing the composite housing.

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. Star Drag Stack: Beneath the star, remove the Belleville Washers (spring washers). To maintain proper drag tension, ensure they are reinstalled facing each other like this: ().

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

Step 2: The Magnetic Control System (MCS)

The AHC1SH features an external dial for the magnets. Unlike centrifugal systems, this is a "non-contact" brake, making it very low-maintenance.

• Cleaning the Magnets: Inside the palm-side plate, use a dry cotton swab to wipe the magnetic bank. Never apply grease or oil to these magnets; any lubricant will trap dust and disrupt the magnetic field.

• The Spool Rim: Wipe the flat outer rim of the aluminum spool with a dry cloth. This is the surface the magnets "grab" during a cast. Keep it bone-dry for consistent braking performance.

Step 3: Interior Brass Gears & Rulon Drag

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

   • Graphite Frame Caution: You are threading metal screws into a graphite composite. Use a hand-driven screwdriver and do not over-tighten upon reassembly, or you may crack the frame.

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

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

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

3. Rulon Drag System: The AHC1SH uses Rulon washers, providing 15 lbs of drag.

   • The Secret: Rulon is self-lubricating. It performs best when dry and clean. Adding grease here will actually lower your max drag. Wipe these washers with a dry cloth only.

Step 4: Lubrication and Reassembly

• Spool 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 the Zirconia line guide track. Apply a light coat of oil or a very small dab of grease. Avoid heavy grease, as it attracts the grit that wears out the level wind pawl.

• Zero-Reverse Clutch: The roller bearing in the side plate provides instant anti-reverse. Keep it dry and clean. If the handle starts "slipping" backward, flush the bearing with alcohol. One drop of oil is the maximum it should ever receive.

AHC1SH Troubleshooting & Specs

Common Issues:

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

• Screeching during Cast: Usually a dry spool bearing. Apply a drop of oil to the bearing located inside the tension knob.

• Finish Fading: To protect the Camo pattern, avoid harsh aerosol "brakleen" style cleaners. Use 90% alcohol on a cloth for the exterior.

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 for your next trip.