Lews KVD kvd1h kvd1sh kvd1xh

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s KVD Series (KVD1H, KVD1SH, KVD1XH)

The Lew’s KVD Series is a performance-tier lineup designed to Kevin VanDam’s specifications. These reels feature a one-piece aluminum frame and a sophisticated Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) system.

Whether you have the KVD1H (6.2:1), the KVD1SH (7.5:1), or the KVD1XH (8.3:1), the internal architecture is nearly identical. The primary difference is the tooth count on the main gear and pinion, which dictates the retrieval speed.

Step 1: External Teardown & Handle

1. The Handle: Remove the retainer screw and the 10mm nut (Counter-Clockwise for these right-hand models).

2. The Star Drag: Spin off the star. Pay close attention to the Clicker Assembly (Key #77/78). It consists of a tiny pin and spring. If you pull the star off too quickly, these parts can launch across the room.

3. Tension Knob: Unscrew the cast control knob. Inside is a small felt/copper shim and a bearing. Clean the shim with a dry swab; if it's flattened or soaked in grease, the spool will have side-to-side play.

Step 2: The Multi-Setting Brake (MSB) System

This reel uses a dual-braking system that requires specific maintenance:

1. External (Magnetic): The dial on the side plate moves magnets closer to the spool. Clean the magnets with a dry cloth.

    

    

2. Internal (Centrifugal): Open the palm side plate. You will see 4 white brake shoes.

    

    

   • Maintenance: Use a cotton swab lightly dampened with alcohol to clean the brass friction ring inside the side plate where these shoes rub. If this ring is greasy, the brakes won't grab, causing "mystery" professional-grade backlashes.

   • Tuning: Push the pins toward the center to turn them "off" or toward the rim to turn them "on."

Step 3: Interior Gear Box & P2 Super Pinion

1. Opening: Remove the three side plate screws. One is usually hidden near the thumb bar.

2. Main Gear: The KVD series uses high-strength solid brass Speed Gears. Slide the gear and the carbon fiber drag washers off the shaft.

    

    

3. P2 Super Pinion: This model features a bearing-supported pinion gear. This ensures the gear stays perfectly aligned even under the pressure of a heavy hookset.

    

    

   • Cleaning: Use a soft brush to remove old, darkened grease from the P2 bearing and the pinion teeth.

4. Drag System: The KVD uses Carbon Fiber drag washers. Unlike the Rulon washers in the Laser series, these can handle a very light coating of specialized Carbon Drag Grease (like Cal’s) to keep the drag from "chattering" at high settings.

    

    

Step 4: Specialized Lubrication

• Lube Port: The KVD features an external lube port on the bottom of the gear housing. This is for a "quick fix," but for a full service, ignore the port and apply grease directly to the gears.

   

   

• Worm Gear: Apply a light drop of oil to the worm gear. If you use heavy grease here, it will collect grass and seeds, eventually jamming the level wind.

• Spool Bearings: The KVD has high-grade stainless shielded bearings. Remove the shields if you are experienced, or simply apply one drop of thin oil to the visible race.

   

   

KVD Series Specs & Troubleshooting

Common Issues:

• Sluggish Retrieve: Usually caused by over-greasing the P2 Super Pinion bearing. This bearing needs oil, not heavy grease.

• Screaming Cast: The centrifugal brake shoes are dry. Lightly dampen the brass friction ring with a tiny amount of oil (wipe most of it off so it’s just a "film").

• Handle Slap: If the handle doesn't stop instantly, the Zero Reverse clutch in the side plate is contaminated. Flush with alcohol and keep it dry.