Lews LSR22L

Repair & Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Laser SG (LSR22L) Left-Hand Casting Reel

The Lew’s Laser SG (LSR22L) is a workhorse low-profile baitcaster known for its reliability, but like any piece of precision machinery, it requires periodic maintenance to handle the grit, grime, and moisture of the water. Whether you are dealing with a "crunchy" retrieve or a sticky drag, this guide covers the teardown and reconditioning process.

Required Tools and Supplies

Before opening the side plate, ensure you have a clean, organized workspace.

• Tools: Precision Phillips head screwdriver, 10mm nut driver (for the handle nut), and a pair of tweezers.

• Cleaning: Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) and a soft toothbrush or cotton swabs.

• Lubrication: High-quality synthetic reel grease and low-viscosity reel oil.

• Organization: A magnetic parts tray or a white towel to prevent small springs from "escaping."

Step 1: External Disassembly

1. Remove the Spool: Turn the side plate locking lever (located on the palm side) and rotate the plate to remove it. Pull the spool out and set it aside.

2. The Handle Assembly: Use a screwdriver to remove the handle nut retainer screw. Use your 10mm driver to remove the handle nut (Note: Since this is the LSR22L left-hand model, the nut is clockwise-threaded to loosen).

3. Star Drag: Spin off the star drag and remove the clicker washers and the small tension springs (typically two bowed washers facing each other like ()).

Step 2: Accessing the Gear Box

1. Side Plate Removal: Locate the three screws holding the gear-side cover. Keep track of which screw goes in which hole, as they are often different lengths.

2. Internal Inspection: Gently lift the side plate. Be careful not to lose the Pinion Yoke Springs (two small coil springs) that sit on the posts of the gear assembly.

3. The Main Gear & Drag: Slide the main gear off the drive shaft. Inside the gear, you will find the Rulon drag washers.

Step 3: Cleaning and Degreasing

This is the most critical step for performance.

• Deep Clean: Submerge the main gear and pinion gear in isopropyl alcohol to strip old, oxidized grease. Use a toothbrush to clear the teeth.

• Bearings: If the bearings feel gritty, soak them in alcohol and spin them on the end of a pencil. If they don't spin freely after cleaning, they must be replaced.

• Frame: Wipe down the interior of the graphite frame to remove any sand or salt buildup.

Step 4: Lubrication Strategy

Over-lubricating is a common mistake. It attracts dirt and slows down the reel.

• Grease: Apply a light coat of grease to the teeth of the Main Gear and Pinion Gear. Dab a small amount on the Worm Gear (level wind) and the Kick Lever slide points.

• Oil: Place one drop of oil on each ball bearing (spool bearings and tension knob bearing). Oil the ends of the spool shaft.

• Drag Washers: The Laser SG uses a Rulon system. These can be run "dry" for max lockdown or with a ultra-thin "skin" of specialized drag grease for smoothness.

Step 5: Reassembly and Testing

1. Gear Stack: Replace the drive shaft, main gear, and drag washers in the exact order they were removed.

2. Pinion & Yoke: Seat the pinion gear in the yoke and slide it over the spool shaft. Ensure the yoke springs are upright.

3. Closing Up: Secure the side plate. Reinstall the tension washers, star drag, and handle.

4. The Test: * Tighten the drag and pull line to check for "stutter."

   • Disengage the clutch (freespool) to ensure the pinion is retracting fully.

   • Adjust the Magnetic Braking System on the side plate to ensure it provides graduated resistance.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Backlash/Overrun: Check the spool tension knob. If it’s tightened but the spool still wobbles, the internal shim may be worn or missing.

• Grinding Sound: This usually indicates a dry pinion bearing or a chipped tooth on the main gear. Re-grease and inspect under a magnifying glass.

• Handle Back-Play: The LSR22L uses a One-Way Clutch (anti-reverse bearing). If the handle moves backward, clean the inner tube of this bearing with alcohol; do not grease it, as grease causes the rollers to slip.