Lews Custom Pro Baitcast Reel 2nd Gen CPB1SHL

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Custom Pro (2nd Gen) CPB1SHL

The Lew’s Custom Pro 2nd Generation (CPB1SHL) is a flagship-tier piece of equipment. Built on the Super Low Profile (SLP) platform, it features a one-piece aluminum frame, C45 Carbon sideplates, and the QuietCast® Adjustable Centrifugal Braking (ACB) system.

Because this is the CPB1SHL (Left-Hand) model, specific attention must be paid to the reverse-threaded components and the high-precision 11-bearing system.

Phase 1: Disassembly (Left-Hand Specifics)

1. The Handle Assembly: Use a precision screwdriver to remove the retainer screw. Use a 10mm nut driver to remove the handle nut.

   • Crucial Note: Since this is a left-hand reel, the handle nut is clockwise-threaded. Turn it Clockwise to loosen.

2. Star Drag: Spin off the star drag. Note the assembly of the spring washers. The Custom Pro uses a high-performance carbon drag stack; ensure the clicker pin and spring (hidden behind the star) stay seated.

3. Spool & ACB System: Pull the palm-side plate release pin and rotate the plate to remove. Slide out the spool.

    

    

Phase 2: Servicing the QuietCast® ACB System

The 2nd Gen Custom Pro relies on a 27-position QuietCast system.

• The Centrifugal Brakes: On the spool, you will see the white centrifugal brake tabs. Ensure they click freely. If they are stuck, use a drop of alcohol on a swab to dissolve old salt or oil.

• The Friction Ring: Look inside the palm side plate. There is a polished brass ring. This is the "braking track."

  • Maintenance: Wipe this ring with a clean, dry swab. If the brakes are "screaming" during a cast, apply the tiniest possible film of oil to the ring—just enough to make it look damp, not wet.

Phase 3: Internal Gear & P2 Super Pinion

1. Opening the Gear Side: Remove the side plate screws. Keep them organized, as the Custom Pro often uses different thread pitches for the screws going into metal (frame) vs. plastic (sideplate).

2. Main Gear: The 2nd Gen features Hard Anodized Aluminum Speed Gears. Aluminum is lighter than brass but requires cleaner lubrication to prevent wear.

   • Degreasing: Use a soft brush and alcohol to strip the old grease.

   • Greasing: Use a premium synthetic grease. Apply a thin layer to every tooth. Avoid "globbing" grease, as it will slow down the high-speed 7.5:1 retrieve.

3. P2 Super Pinion: This bearing-supported pinion gear is the heart of the reel’s stability. Ensure the bearing on the pinion gear is spinning smoothly. If it feels "crunchy," replace it; this bearing is vital for gear alignment under heavy drag pressure.

    

    

Phase 4: High-Performance Lubrication

• Bearings (10+1 System): The Custom Pro uses double-shielded stainless bearings. Place one drop of high-speed thin oil (like Lew's HyperSpeed Lube) on the spool bearings.

   

   

• Zero-Reverse Bearing: Located in the side plate. Do not grease. A single drop of oil is all it needs. Excess lubricant here will cause the handle to slip in cold weather.

• Worm Gear: Clean the worm gear (level wind) with a needle to remove debris. Apply a light coat of oil. Grease is too heavy for the fast-moving level wind on this model.

CPB1SHL Troubleshooting & Specs

Common 2nd Gen Issues:

• Vibration on Retrieve: This is often caused by the aluminum main gear being slightly out of alignment. Ensure the side plate screws are tightened in a "star pattern" to apply even pressure.

• Loss of Casting Distance: Usually, this is due to "oil migration"—oil from the bearings has seeped onto the centrifugal brake ring. Clean the ring and the white brake tabs with alcohol.

• Handle Play: If the handle feels loose, check the O-ring under the cast control knob. If it is pinched or missing, the spool won't center properly.