Lews BB1M

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s BB1 Speed Spool (BB1M)

The Lew’s BB1M is a modern favorite for anglers who prefer the "traditional" feel of a multi-stop anti-reverse. While most modern reels use a silent, instant anti-reverse, the M in BB1M stands for Multi-stop, meaning the handle has a tiny bit of "back-play" and a nostalgic mechanical click. This design is specifically favored by crankbait fishermen to reduce shock on the gear train during aggressive strikes.

Because this reel is a workhorse with solid brass internals and an aluminum frame, it can handle years of abuse, but that multi-stop pawl and the Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) system require specific care to keep them from becoming a noisy, grinding mess.

Tools and Supplies

• Tools: 10mm nut driver (for the handle), precision Phillips screwdriver, and fine tweezers.

• Cleaning: 90% Isopropyl alcohol and a toothbrush.

• Lubrication: Synthetic reel grease (teeth) and thin reel oil (bearings/pawl).

• Workspace: Use a light-colored towel. The BB1M has several "spring-loaded" surprises that are easy to lose.

Step 1: External Disassembly

1. The Handle: Remove the retainer screw and the 10mm handle nut. For this right-hand model, turn Counter-Clockwise to loosen. Remove the handle and the star drag.

2. Spring Washers: Beneath the star, locate the two bowed Belleville Washers. For the drag to function, they must be reinstalled in an "opposing" orientation (). If they are flat or nested ((, your drag will have zero range.

3. The Spool: Pull the side plate release lever (bottom of the palm side) and rotate the plate to remove. Slide the spool out.

Step 2: Servicing the Multi-Setting Brake (MSB)

The BB1M uses both magnetic and centrifugal braking.

• Magnets: Wipe the internal magnetic bank in the palm plate with a dry cloth. Do not grease the magnets.

• Centrifugal Shoes: On the side of the spool, ensure the four white tabs click freely. If they are gummy, clean them with alcohol.

• The Friction Ring: Clean the brass ring inside the side plate with alcohol.

• The "Pro" Tip: If the reel "screams" during a long cast, the ring is bone-dry. Wipe a microscopic film of oil onto the ring with a cotton swab. Do not use grease here, or you'll lose all braking power.

Step 3: Accessing the "Multi-Stop" Gearbox

1. The Side Plate: Remove the three screws from the gear-side housing. Note that the screw near the thumb bar is usually a different size.

2. The Main Gear: Slide the Solid Brass Main Gear off the drive shaft.

3. The Multi-Stop Pawl: At the base of the drive shaft, you will see a mechanical metal "dog" or pawl.

   • Maintenance: This is the soul of the BB1M. Clean the pawl and the notched ratchet teeth with alcohol.

   • Warning: Apply one drop of oil to the pawl. Never grease this part. Grease will make the pawl "float" and fail to catch the teeth, causing your handle to spin backward uncontrollably on a hookset.

Step 4: Cleaning and Lubrication

1. Brass Gears: Scrub the main gear and pinion gear with alcohol until they are spotless. Apply a light-to-moderate coat of synthetic grease to the teeth only.

2. Carbon Drag: The BB1M features high-performance carbon fiber washers. Wipe them clean. You can run them dry or with an ultra-thin "skin" of specialized carbon drag grease.

3. Bearings: This is a 10-bearing system. Flush the spool bearings with alcohol, dry them, and apply one drop of thin oil.

Step 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Pinion Alignment: Seat the pinion gear in the yoke. Ensure the two yoke springs are upright before lowering the side plate.

2. Seating the Plate: If the side plate won't close flush, do not force it. Wiggle the handle slightly to allow the brass gears to mesh.

3. The Test: Engage the thumb bar and turn the handle. You should hear the distinct "click-click" of the multi-stop system. Check the drag—it should be smooth without "stuttering."

Troubleshooting the BB1M

Final Note: Since the BB1M is often used for deep cranking, the Worm Gear (level wind) takes a lot of pressure. Clean it frequently and use a light oil rather than heavy grease to keep the oscillation fast and smooth.