Lews Team Lew's Lite TLL1H TLL1SH TLL1XH TLL1SHL

Comprehensive Repair and Maintenance Guide: Team Lew’s Lite Series

Models: TLL1H, TLL1SH, TLL1XH, TLL1SHL

The Team Lew’s Lite series is defined by its lightweight LFS (Lighter, Faster, Stronger) platform, featuring a one-piece magnesium frame and C40 carbon side plates. Because these reels utilize lightweight alloys and carbon composites, they require a delicate touch during repair to avoid stripping threads or damaging the specialized coatings.

Series Specifications

While the internal architecture is nearly identical across these models, the primary difference lies in the gear ratios:

• TLL1H: 6.8:1 (Multi-purpose)

• TLL1SH / TLL1SHL: 7.5:1 (High speed / L is Left-hand crank)

• TLL1XH: 8.3:1 (Ultra-high speed)

Step 1: External Teardown

1. Handle Removal: Use a 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut. Note that the TLL1SHL (left-handed) has reverse threads (turn clockwise to loosen). Remove the handle, spring washers, and the star drag.

2. Side Plate Access: Pull the release pin located on the bottom of the gear-side housing and slide the palm side plate upward to remove. Slide out the aircraft-grade Duralumin spool.

3. Housing Screws: Remove the three screws securing the gear side plate.

   Note: The magnesium frame is susceptible to galvanic corrosion if salt or moisture is trapped. Inspect the screw holes for any white powdery oxidation.

Step 2: Gear and Drive System Maintenance

The Team Lew's Lite uses a high-strength solid brass pinion gear and a hard-anodized aluminum drive gear.

1. Cleaning: Remove the main gear and the drag stack. Submerge the gears in a degreaser. Use a toothbrush to remove old, darkened grease trapped in the teeth.

2. The Drag Stack: This series features a multi-disk carbon fiber system.

   • Inspect the carbon washers for "glazing" (a shiny, glass-like surface).

   • If glazed, lightly scuff them with 1000-grit sandpaper to restore texture.

   • Reassemble dry for maximum stopping power or with a translucent film of Cal’s Drag Grease for smoothness.

3. The Pinion Yoke: Check the two yellow springs on the pinion yoke. If they are compressed or uneven, the reel may fail to engage properly after a cast.

Step 3: Bearing Service (Speed Cast System)

These reels feature a premium 11-bearing system. To maintain the "Lite" feel, the spool bearings must be pristine.

• Spool Bearings: Locate the bearing inside the tension knob and the one seated in the palm side plate.

• The Flush: Drop these bearings into a small jar of Isopropyl alcohol and shake. Spin them on a tapered tool to ensure they are silent.

• Lubrication: Use a low-viscosity "Competition" oil. One drop is sufficient. Over-oiling these bearings will significantly kill the startup inertia of the lightweight spool.

Step 4: Centrifugal Brake Calibration

The SpeedCast® adjustable centrifugal braking system uses six internal pins.

1. Inspection: Ensure the pins slide freely on their tracks. If they stick, the reel will be prone to backlashing.

2. Cleaning: Wipe the brass friction ring inside the side plate with a dry cloth.

3. Adjustment: For the TLL1XH (8.3:1), which has extremely high spool speeds, it is recommended to keep at least 2 pins "on" (pushed toward the center) to manage the inertia.

Step 5: Reassembly Tips

1. Pinion Alignment: Slide the pinion gear back onto the spool shaft. Ensure the yoke is seated squarely.

2. Sealing: Apply a very thin layer of grease to the mating surfaces of the side plate and frame. This acts as a gasket to keep water out of the magnesium housing.

3. The "Click" System: When reinstalling the star drag, ensure the small clicker pin and spring are seated in the gear shaft. These are tiny and easily lost.

Maintenance Schedule for Magnesium Reels

Caution: Never use harsh degreasers (like brake cleaner) on the C40 carbon side plates, as it can degrade the composite finish. Stick to mild solvents or dedicated reel cleaners.