Lews Laser SG LSG100A-400A

Lew’s Laser SG (LSG100A / 200A / 300A / 400A) Repair & Service Guide

The Laser SG is a classic, dependable entry in the Lew’s spinning lineup. It is built on a rugged graphite body with a 7-bearing system. While it lacks the high-end aluminum frames of the Mach series, its simplicity makes it incredibly durable if maintained properly. The "A" series is the modernized version of the original Laser, featuring a more compact gearbox and an improved skeletal rotor.

1. External Teardown & Prep

The Laser SG uses a standard fold-down handle with a through-bolt and a tightening cap on the opposite side.

• Handle Check: Because this isn't a screw-in handle, the hex-shaped shaft can develop "play" over time. If the handle feels loose, inspect the hex-bore in the main gear. If the metal is rounded out, the gear must be replaced.

• The Bail System: The LSG uses a traditional external trip. If the bail is sticky, check the bail spring located under the side cover of the bail arm. These are "Y-shaped" or compression springs. Clean out any old grease that has turned into "waxy glue" and apply a light dab of fresh synthetic grease.

2. Accessing the Graphite Internals

Graphite is lightweight but can be prone to "stripping" if you use the wrong tools. Use a precision Phillips #1.

1. Remove the Spool: Note the clicker gear and the shims on the main shaft.

2. Rotor Nut: Remove the 10mm nut. Note: This nut often has a small brass locking screw. Remove that first.

3. Side Plate Screws: There are three screws. On the Laser SG, these screws are often identical in length, but it is best practice to keep them in order.

4. Bumper: There is no "hidden" screw under a bumper on most LSG models, but check the rear for a small plastic cap that might be covering the third screw.

3. The Gearbox: "Rugged Simplicity"

Inside the LSG, you will find a zinc alloy main gear and a brass pinion gear.

• Main Gear & Shimming: The Laser SG relies heavily on thin shims to keep the gear teeth aligned. If you open the reel and a tiny brass washer falls out, it almost certainly belongs on the handle side of the main gear axle.

• Oscillation Slider: The LSG uses a classic S-Curve Slider.

  • Lubrication: This part sees the most friction. Use a "tacky" grease on the circular oscillation gear and the slider block.

• The Anti-Reverse: The 7-bearing system includes a one-way clutch. This is a "dry" bearing. If you oil it, the reel will eventually slip. If it's already slipping, flush it with 90% Isopropyl Alcohol and let it air dry completely before re-installing.

4. Troubleshooting the Laser SG Series

5. Drag System Maintenance

The Laser SG uses felt drag washers.

• Unlike carbon washers, felt requires oil/grease to stay supple.

• If the felt washers look like dry cardboard, they will "chatter" when a fish pulls line.

• The Fix: Remove the washers, clean them, and soak them in a light reel oil (or a dedicated felt-drag grease). This will restore that "butter-smooth" start-up.

6. Reassembly Checklist

• Pinion Orientation: Ensure the pinion bearing is seated flat. If it is crooked, the rotor will wobble.

• Anti-Reverse Lever: The LSG has an external on/off switch for the anti-reverse. Ensure the metal "tang" is tucked into the clutch housing before you tighten the side plate screws.

• Screw Torque: Again, this is a graphite frame. Tighten the screws until they stop, then give them a 1/16th turn more. No more, or you risk cracking the screw bosses.

Summary Checklist

• Grease: Main Gear, Pinion, Oscillation Slider.

• Oil: Line Roller, Handle Bushings/Bearings, Main Shaft.

• Dry: Anti-Reverse Bearing rollers.

The LSG100A is very small and has narrower gears; be careful not to use "heavy" grease in that model, or it will feel sluggish. For the LSG400A, which is often used for heavier freshwater fish, you can be more generous with the grease on the main gear.