Lews Mr. Crappie Solo Crappie SO1

Lew’s Mr. Crappie Solo (SO1) Repair & Maintenance Guide

The Mr. Crappie Solo (SO1) is a specialized, large-arbor jigging reel designed for vertical "solo" fishing. Unlike the spinning reels in the Lew's family, this is a simplified 2-bearing system with a 1:1 gear ratio. It is technically more akin to a fly reel or a center-pin reel than a standard spinning reel.

Since it has very few moving parts, it is nearly bulletproof, but it does require specific maintenance to keep the drag consistent and the retrieve silent.

1. Key Features & Prep

The SO1 features a graphite frame and spool with an extended reel foot for better balance when jigging.

• Tools: Small flathead screwdriver, alcohol, and light reel oil.

• Lubrication Rule: Never use heavy grease in this reel. Heavy grease will gum up the clicker and make the drag feel inconsistent. Use a light silicone-based oil or "Speed Lube."

2. Disassembly: Removing the Spool

Most maintenance on the SO1 happens inside the spool rather than a gearbox.

1. Remove the Spool: Unscrew the large retaining knob in the center of the spool. Pull the spool straight off the frame axle.

2. Inspect the Axle: The main axle is stainless steel. If it's blackened with old lubricant, wipe it bone-dry with a cloth and alcohol.

3. The Drag Stack: Under the spool, you will see a multi-disc drag system. This is a "wide-range" drag. If the drag feels jerky, remove the retainer and clean the washers.

3. Converting Hand Retrieve (Left to Right)

The SO1 is unique because it uses a One-Way Clutch Bearing to determine the direction of the retrieve.

1. Remove the spool from the frame.

2. Unscrew the large round nut on the underside of the spool.

3. Remove the spacer and the one-way clutch bearing.

4. The Flip: Flip the bearing over 180 degrees and reinstall it.

5. Reassemble the spacer and nut. Your retrieve direction is now reversed.

   • Note: If you have line on the reel, you must strip it off and rewind it in the opposite direction.

4. Maintenance: The "Click" Function

The "clicker" on the SO1 provides both an audible signal and light tension.

• Clicker Troubleshooting: If the reel is silent or the drag has no "steps," the plastic click-tongue inside the spool is likely stuck or broken.

• The Fix: Apply one drop of oil to the click-tongue pivot. Do not grease it; grease will dampen the sound and cause the tongue to skip over the teeth of the gear.

5. Troubleshooting the SO1

6. Summary Checklist

• Oil: Main Axle, One-Way Clutch (one drop only), Line Roller (if applicable).

• Grease: None. (Unless applying a microscopic film to the very base of the handle spindle).

• Clean: Keep the spool-to-frame contact surfaces free of grit.

Because the SO1 is so lightweight (3.0 oz), even a tiny amount of dirt inside the spool will feel like a major obstruction. A 5-minute cleaning once a month will keep this reel performing for years.