Lews BBXLM

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s BB1 Pro Series (BBXLM)

The Lew’s BB1 Pro (BBXLM) is a specialized, long-casting machine designed with the QuietCast® Adjustable Centrifugal Braking (ACB) system and an oversized 95mm handle. The "L" in the model name indicates this is the Left-Handed version, while the "M" denotes the Multi-stop or specific gear configuration used in this series.

This reel is a favorite for deep cranking and long-range casting, but the ACB system and the specialized P2 Super Pinion require precise cleaning to maintain that "sexy" smooth feel.

Step 1: External Teardown (Left-Hand Specific)

1. Handle Removal: Unscrew the retainer screw and the 10mm handle nut.

   • Note: Because this is a Left-Hand (L) model, the handle nut is Clockwise-threaded. Turn it Clockwise to loosen.

2. The Star Drag: Spin off the star drag. The BB1 Pro features a high-tension carbon drag; ensure the Belleville Washers (the two bowed washers) are reinstalled facing each other () to maintain the spring tension.

3. Spool & Side Plate: Locate the side plate release lever. On the BB1 Pro, the side plate is often spring-loaded or tethered. Pull the plate away and slide out the braid-ready aluminum spool.

Step 2: The QuietCast® ACB System

The BB1 Pro is known for its "QuietCast" tech, which uses a specialized centrifugal hub.

• The Brake Tabs: You will see multiple white pins on the spool. Use your fingernail to click them "on" (out) or "off" (in).

• Brake Ring Maintenance: Inside the palm-side plate is a polished brass friction ring.

  • The Secret: If this ring is bone-dry, the reel may "screech" during high-speed casts. If it is too oily, the brakes won't work. Apply one drop of oil to a cotton swab, wipe the ring, then wipe it again with a dry side. You want a "ghost" of a film, nothing more.

Step 3: Interior Gear & P2 Super Pinion

1. Opening the Gear Side: Remove the three screws from the gear-side plate. Keep them separated, as one is usually longer than the others.

2. Hard Anodized Aluminum Speed Gears: The BB1 Pro uses aluminum gears for weight reduction. These are high-precision parts.

    

    

   • Cleaning: Strip old, blackened grease using a toothbrush and 90% isopropyl alcohol. Aluminum gears are sensitive to grit; even a tiny grain of sand will make the reel feel "geary."

   • Greasing: Apply a thin, even coat of premium synthetic grease. Do not over-pack the housing, as it will cause the reel to feel sluggish in cold weather.

3. P2 Super Pinion: The pinion gear is supported by a dedicated bearing (Key #55). This is the key to the BB1 Pro's stability. Flush this bearing with alcohol and apply one drop of high-speed oil.

    

    

Step 4: Lubrication and Reassembly

• Spool Bearings: The BB1 Pro has 10 high-speed stainless bearings. The two most important for casting are in the side plate and under the tension knob. Use one drop of thin oil (like Lew's HyperSpeed Lube).

   

   

• Worm Gear (Level Wind): Clean any grass or line fibers out of the worm gear. Apply a light coat of oil. Heavy grease here will attract dirt and slow down the level wind's travel.

• Anti-Reverse Clutch: The large one-way roller bearing in the side plate must be kept clean. If it's noisy, one drop of oil is okay, but never grease it, or the handle will slip on hooksets.

BBXLM Troubleshooting & Technical Specs

Common BB1 Pro Issues:

• Screaming Casts: This is the #1 complaint. It almost always means the Centrifugal Brake Hub is bone-dry. Follow the "ghost film" oiling tip in Step 2.

• Loss of "Free-Spool": Check the Tension Knob Shim. If it’s been crushed from over-tightening, the spool won't spin freely. You may need to replace the small copper/felt shim inside the knob.

• Handle Vibration: Ensure the P2 Pinion Bearing is seated correctly. If the pinion is slightly tilted, it will vibrate at high retrieval speeds.

Pro Tip: Because the BB1 Pro has such high line capacity, check the Spool Shaft for any slight bends if you've recently cleared a massive snag with heavy braid. A bent shaft is the most common cause of permanent "vibration" that cleaning won't fix.