Lews Team Lew's Pro SP PSP1XH

Comprehensive Repair and Maintenance Guide: Lew’s Team Lew’s Pro SP (PSP1XH)

The Lew’s Team Lew’s Pro SP (PSP1XH) is a highly specialized shallow-spool baitcaster designed specifically for skipping and pitching. Because of its ultra-shallow spool and high-speed 8.3:1 gear ratio, maintaining the tight tolerances of this reel is critical for preventing "professional overruns" and ensuring smooth operation.

Tools and Supplies Needed

Before beginning, clear a clean, well-lit workspace and gather the following:

• Precision Screwdrivers: Small Phillips and flat-head.

• 10mm Wrench: For the handle nut.

• Cleaning Solvent: Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) or a dedicated reel cleaner.

• Lubricants: High-quality synthetic reel grease (for gears) and light bearing oil.

• Tweezers/Pick: For removing small C-clips and springs.

• Soft Brush/Cotton Swabs: For scrubbing grime.

Step 1: External Disassembly

1. Remove the Handle: Unscrew the handle nut retainer screw, then use the 10mm wrench to remove the handle nut. Pull off the handle, the tension washer, and the star drag.

2. Access the Spool: Flip the side plate locking lever and rotate the palm side plate to remove it. Slide the shallow spool out of the frame.

3. Side Cover Removal: Remove the three housing screws from the gear side plate. Note that one screw is typically longer than the others; keep track of their specific locations. Carefully lift the side plate to expose the main gear assembly.

Step 2: Internal Cleaning and Inspection

Once the "guts" are exposed, focus on these three primary areas:

The Drive Train

Remove the main gear (aluminum) and the pinion gear. If the reel feels "crunchy," inspect the teeth for pitting or debris. Soak these in solvent and scrub with a soft brush.

The Drag System

The Pro SP uses a rugged carbon fiber drag system. Remove the washers from inside the main gear.

• Maintenance Tip: These should be dry or very lightly skimmed with specialized drag grease. If they are soaked in dark, dirty oil, clean them with alcohol until they are bone dry.

The Braking System

The PSP1XH features an externally adjustable 6-pin QuietCast® ACB system.

• The Brake Drum: Clean the inner brass ring of the side plate with a swab and a tiny drop of oil. Excessive oil here will cause the brakes to fail, leading to backlashes.

Step 3: Lubrication Protocol

The most common mistake in reel repair is over-lubrication. Follow these specific rules:

• Main and Pinion Gears: Apply a light, even coat of grease to the teeth using a small brush. Do not "glob" it on, as excess grease will migrate into the spool bearings and slow them down.

• Spool Bearings: The Pro SP relies on speed for skipping. Clean the two spool bearings (one in the side plate, one under the tension knob) in solvent until they spin freely. Add one drop of thin oil to each.

• Worm Shaft: Apply a small amount of grease or heavy oil to the level wind gears and the worm shaft.

Step 4: Reassembly and Fine-Tuning

1. Seat the Pinion: Ensure the pinion gear and the plastic yoke are properly seated on the two guide posts.

2. Close the Housing: Replace the gear side plate. Tighten the screws in a "star" pattern to ensure even pressure.

3. Handle Assembly: Reinstall the star drag (ensure the clicker washers are in the correct orientation), followed by the handle and the locking nut.

4. Spool Alignment: Slide the spool back in. Before closing the side plate, ensure the centrifugal brake shoes are in the "on" or "off" position as desired (typically 2-3 pins "on" for skipping).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Final Maintenance Note

Because the Team Lew's Pro SP is designed for high-impact techniques like skipping, the frame is subject to significant vibration. Every 3-4 months, check the tightness of the frame screws and the handle nut to ensure the reel remains rigid and the gears stay perfectly aligned.