Lews Custom Speed Spin CS200 300 400

Lew’s Custom Speed Spin (CS200 / 300 / 400) Technical Repair Guide

The Custom Speed Spin (CS) series occupies the premium mid-tier of the Lew's lineup. Unlike the graphite Speed Spin models, the CS features a rugged aluminum body and sideplate, a C60 Carbon Skeletal Rotor, and a 10-bearing system. It is designed for high-end durability and includes specialized "Flush and Drain" ports for quick maintenance.

1. Exterior "Flush and Drain" Service

The CS series is unique for its exterior lubrication ports.

• Daily Port Service: If you’ve been fishing in dirty or brackish water, remove the port screw on the side of the body. Flush the interior with a drop of light reel oil (not grease) to displace moisture.

• The "Pro Power" Knob: This model features a contoured knob with high-grade bearings. If you feel resistance, remove the knob cap and apply one drop of high-speed oil to the spindle bearings.

2. Disassembly: Accessing the Aluminum Frame

The aluminum frame on the CS series provides a rock-solid foundation for the gears, but it requires precision during teardown to avoid marring the finish or stripping the high-torque screws.

1. Remove the Spool: Note the double-anodized knurled arbor. Underneath, check the sealed drag stack.

2. Rotor Removal: Use a 10mm socket. The CS uses a C60 Carbon Rotor—this material is 25% lighter than standard graphite but much stiffer. Ensure the rotor nut is snug; if it's loose, the stiffness of the C60 will cause a rhythmic "knock" under load.

3. The Sideplate: Remove the three primary screws. Note that because this is an aluminum-to-aluminum contact point, these screws are often set with a light thread-locker from the factory. Use a high-quality driver and firm pressure.

3. Internal Drive Train: "Speed Gears"

The CS series uses High-Strength Speed Gears and a precision-cut machined aluminum pinion.

• Pinion Alignment: The aluminum pinion is lighter than brass but requires better lubrication to prevent galling. Use a lithium-based synthetic grease.

• The Main Shaft: The shaft is stainless steel and runs through the center of the aluminum pinion. Wipe the shaft bone-dry and apply a thin film of oil. Do not use grease on the shaft, as it can cause "suction drag" against the aluminum pinion walls.

• Oscillation System: The CS uses a precision-machined oscillation gear.

  • The Fix: If the line lay is uneven, check the Oscillation Gear Washer (Key #141). If this shim is missing or worn, the gear will wobble, leading to "bunched" line at the top or bottom of the spool.

4. Troubleshooting the CS Series

5. Advanced Drag System: Sealed Hybrid Carbon

The CS series uses a Sealed Hybrid Carbon Drag.

• Maintenance: The seal is a rubber O-ring under the drag knob. If you see water inside the spool, the O-ring is likely dry or cracked.

• The Stack: The washers are a mix of carbon fiber and stainless steel. Carbon fiber performs best when dry or with a microscopic film of specialized drag grease. If they are soaked in standard reel oil, the drag will lose 30% of its stopping power.

6. Reassembly Checklist

• Anti-Reverse Switch Alignment: The CS has a bottom-mounted AR switch. Ensure the actuator arm is centered before sliding the sideplate back on.

• Screw Torque: Since the frame is aluminum, you can tighten these screws firmly. However, ensure the Sideplate Gasket is not pinched. If the gasket is out of alignment, the "Flush and Drain" port system will actually trap water inside rather than letting it out.

• The Braid-Ready Spool: Ensure the rubber arbor is clean. If you've been using braid for several seasons, salt crystals can form under the rubber; remove the rubber band, clean the aluminum, and re-set.

Maintenance Summary

• Grease: Speed Gears (teeth), Pinion Gear, Oscillation Slider.

• Oil: All Ball Bearings, Main Shaft, Handle Pivot.

• Check: Port screws (ensure they are tight to prevent water entry during normal use).