Lews LaserMG

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Laser MG Speed Spool

The Lew’s Laser MG is a step up in the series, featuring a one-piece lightweight graphite frame and a more robust 8-bearing system. Unlike the standard SG, the MG is often subjected to heavier use, making regular maintenance of its Magnetic Control System (MCS) and internal drive train essential for preventing that dreaded "gear grind."

Phase 1: Disassembly & The Handle Stack

1. Remove the Handle: Take off the retainer screw and the handle nut. On a right-hand model, turn counter-clockwise; on a left-hand model, turn clockwise.

2. The Star Drag: Spin off the star drag. Underneath, you will find the Clicker Assembly. Be extremely careful here—there is a tiny spring and pin that creates the "clicking" sound when you adjust the drag. If these fly out, they are nearly impossible to find on a carpet.

3. The Side Plate: Remove the three screws from the gear side. Note that one screw is usually longer than the others (typically the one near the "thumb rest").

Phase 2: Servicing the Internals

1. Main Gear & Drag: The MG uses a rugged Rulon Drag System. Pull the main gear off the shaft. Remove the washers and wipe them with a dry cloth. If the washers are glazed (shiny and hard), you can lightly scuff them with 1000-grit sandpaper to restore grip.

2. The Pinion & Yoke: The pinion gear on the MG is brass. Check the "teeth" at the end of the gear that engage the spool. If these are rounded off, the reel will slip when you try to hook a fish.

3. Spool Bearings: There is one bearing under the tension knob and one inside the removable palm side plate. These are the "speed" bearings.

Phase 3: Cleaning & Specialized Lubing

The "MG" stands for Magnetic, referring to the braking system. This requires specific attention.

• The Magnets: Open the palm side plate. You will see a semi-circle of magnets. Do not grease these. Wipe the surface of the magnets and the flat inner "wall" of the spool with alcohol. Any grease here will create "hydroplaning," making the brakes inconsistent.

• The Drive Shaft: Apply a small dab of grease to the base of the drive shaft where it meets the frame.

• The Level Wind: The MG has a shielded worm gear. Use a needle to pick out any braided line fibers or grass that may have wrapped around the gear.

Phase 4: Reassembly Pro-Tips

1. The Yoke Springs: When placing the side plate back on, ensure the two vertical springs are perfectly upright. If they tilt, they will get crushed between the plate and the frame, and your thumb bar won't "pop" back up after a cast.

2. The Tension Knob: Before putting the handle back on, screw the tension knob in until it just touches the spool. This centers the spool so the gears mesh correctly during the final assembly.

3. Anti-Reverse: If your handle is slipping backward, the Instant Anti-Reverse bearing in the side plate is likely over-oiled. Flush it with alcohol and leave it dry.

Troubleshooting the Laser MG