Lews Speed Spin SS10HS SS20HS SS30HS & SS40HS

Lew’s Speed Spin High Speed (SS10HS - SS40HS) Repair & Service Manual

The Speed Spin HS series is defined by its high-speed gear ratios (6.2:1 in the larger sizes) and the 10-bearing system. These reels are workhorses, but the high retrieve speed puts extra torque on the main gear and pinion, making proper lubrication critical to prevent that "whirring" noise common in high-speed spinning reels.

1. External Maintenance & The Rotor

Because the SS-HS series uses a skeletal graphite rotor, it is lightweight but susceptible to "flex" if the rotor nut is loose.

• Bail Trip Mechanism: If your bail is failing to trip, remove the bail arm. The SS-HS uses a high-tension kick-lever. Clean out the old, dried grease in the "ramp" area of the frame. Replace with a tacky grease to ensure the trip lever slides smoothly.

• Line Roller Bearing: This is a 10-bearing reel; one of the most important bearings is in the line roller. If you hear a "chirping" during the retrieve, unscrew the line roller, clean the small ball bearing with alcohol, and apply one drop of light oil.

2. Getting Inside: Gearbox Entry

The SS10HS through SS40HS models use a standard graphite body with a side plate.

1. Handle: This model features a folding screw-in handle. Ensure the threads are clean. If the handle feels "loose" even when tightened, check the rubber washer at the base of the handle threads.

    

    

2. Side Plate: Remove the visible screws. Warning: The SS-HS series often has one screw longer than the others (usually the one closest to the reel stem). Do not mix them up or you risk cracking the graphite frame during reassembly.

3. The Bumper: Some versions have a decorative plastic bumper at the rear. Pop this off first to reveal the final frame screw.

3. The High-Speed Drive Train

The "HS" (High Speed) designation means the gear teeth are cut at a steeper angle.

• Main Gear & Pinion: Inspect for "shiny spots" on the teeth, which indicate wear from lack of lube. Use a high-quality synthetic grease. Apply it to the teeth with a toothpick—you want the teeth filled, but not "glued" shut with excess.

• Anti-Reverse Clutch: The SS series uses a robust one-way clutch bearing.

  • Summer: One drop of oil.

  • Winter: Flush it bone-dry with alcohol. In freezing temps, even a tiny bit of oil can cause the anti-reverse to slip, resulting in the handle spinning backward.

• Oscillation Slider: The SS-HS uses a classic S-curve oscillation. Grease the track on the gear and the slider block. If the spool is "stacking" line at the top or bottom, check that the slider screw hasn't vibrated loose.

4. Troubleshooting the SS-HS Series

5. Reassembly Notes

• Rotor Nut: It is a 10mm nut. Tighten it snug, but since the rotor is skeletal graphite, overtightening can cause the rotor to warp and rub against the frame.

• Shim Placement: Most SS-HS models have a very thin Teflon or brass shim on the handle side of the main gear. If you lose this, the gears will "gear-mash," causing permanent damage.

• Braid-Ready Spool: If the spool is slipping, it’s not the drag—ensure your braid is tied to the rubber arbor or has a monofilament backing.

   

   

Size-Specific Tips

• SS10HS/SS20HS: These smaller frames are prone to "salt-lock" if used in brackish water. Focus heavily on the anti-reverse bearing maintenance.

• SS30HS/SS40HS: These have larger gears. They can handle heavier grease. If you use these for bass or larger species, a thicker grease (like blue marine grease) on the main gear will provide a smoother feel under load.