Lews Custom Speed Spin CS100

Lew’s Custom Speed Spin (CS100) Technical Repair Guide

The CS100 is the finesse powerhouse of the Custom Speed Spin family. While its larger siblings (200–400) are built for general-purpose and heavy cover, the 100-size is specifically engineered for ultra-light lines and high-sensitivity applications. It features the same Aluminum Frame and C60 Carbon Rotor but in a significantly more compact footprint.

1. Finesse-Specific External Care

Because the CS100 is designed for light lures, any external friction is felt immediately through the rod.

• C60 Carbon Skeletal Rotor: This rotor is extremely rigid. Check the 10mm rotor nut under the spool; if it is even slightly loose, the rotor will "flex" during a hookset, causing the gear teeth to misalign.

• Sealed Line Roller: The CS100 features a premium line roller bearing. Since you’ll likely be using light monofilament or 6lb braid, this bearing must be silent. If you hear a "whirr," remove the screw, clean the bearing, and use one drop of ultra-thin oil.

2. Disassembly: The 100-Series Gearbox

Opening the CS100 requires a steady hand, as the internal components (shims and springs) are smaller than the 300/400 models.

1. Direct-Drive Handle: Unscrew the handle. Inspect the threads on the main gear shaft. If there is black "sludge" on the threads, it’s aluminum wear—clean it with a toothbrush and alcohol before re-installation.

2. Side Plate: Remove the three primary screws. Note that the Aluminum Sideplate fits very tightly into the frame to maintain the water-resistant seal.

3. The "Flush & Drain" Port: Ensure the port screw is removed before trying to pry the side plate off; it can sometimes help relieve suction.

3. The Gear Train: Precision Alignment

The CS100 uses a high-strength zinc/aluminum alloy main gear and a machined aluminum pinion.

• Main Gear Shimming: This is the most critical part of a CS100 repair. Because the aluminum frame doesn't flex, the gear mesh is controlled entirely by micro-shims (often 0.05mm). If the reel feels "tight" after reassembly, you likely swapped a shim from the left side of the gear to the right.

• Oscillation Slider: The S-curve slider in the 100-size is very small.

  • The Fix: Use a high-quality synthetic grease (like Lew's Speed Lube) on the slider track. Do not use heavy marine grease; in a 100-size reel, heavy grease creates "hydrostatic drag" that makes the reel feel sluggish.

• Stainless Steel Main Shaft: Polish the shaft with a microfiber cloth and apply a very thin coat of oil.

4. Troubleshooting the CS100

5. Reassembly & Tuning

• The Gasket: The CS100 relies on a thin internal seal. Ensure it is seated in the frame groove before closing. If the gasket is pinched, the reel will lose its "smooth" feel because the side plate won't be perfectly flush.

• Rotor Nut Locking Screw: Do not forget the tiny Phillips screw that locks the 10mm rotor nut. In high-speed 100-series reels, the vibration can cause the nut to back off if not locked.

• Zero-Play Adjustment: Once the reel is back together, if you feel side-to-side play in the handle, you can fine-tune it by adding a micro-shim to the drive gear axle under the side plate.

Summary Checklist

• Grease: Main Gear, Pinion Gear, Oscillation Slider Track.

• Oil: All Ball Bearings (10 total), Main Shaft, Line Roller.

• Dry: Anti-Reverse Clutch Rollers.

The CS100 is a "tuned" machine. To keep it performing at its peak, avoid the temptation to over-grease. A light, strategic application of lubricants will keep this finesse reel feeling effortless on the water.