Fixing Shimano Bail and Line Roller on Spinning Reels

Quick Fix Instructions: Spinning Reels, Bail Assembly and Line Roller Bearing Replacement

Shimano spinning reels with broken bails or loud and grinding line roller bearings are easily repaired by owners.

Models: Sustain, Stradic, Saros, Symetre, Sahara, Sedona, Sorona, Sienna, Slade, Thunnus, Baitrunner, Spheros, and most other Shimano spinning reels

Symptoms of Line Roller Bearing Problems: Loud grinding noise when retrieving line.

Diagnostic Procedure: Run a section of monofilament line back and forth on the Line Roller while suspending the reel in mid air. If there is grinding noise, then that is a good indicator that the Line Roller Bearing is either dirty, rusted, or corroded.

Tools that may be needed: Small flat head screwdriver, small Philips head screwdriver, cotton swabs, rubbing alcohol, Shimano Bantam Oil. For Thunnus or Baitrunner reels, a 2.5 mm hex wrench may be necessary to replace the bail wire.

Schematics: http://fish.shimano.com/publish/content/global_fish/en/us/index/customer_service0/Reel_Schematics.html

Using a small screwdriver, remove the above depicted screw. These bail assembly screws typically have thread sealant on them, so be careful not to strip them.

If replacing the bail wire, remove opposite screw as well. It is not necessary to remove this screw if only a line roller bearing replacement is being performed.

Pay close attention as to the order of the internal parts of the line roller assembly. This order of the components vary from model to model. Refer to schematics.

Clean any dirt, debris, rust or corrosion on all the line roller components.

If changing the bail wire, reassemble the components of the line roller.

If changing the bail assembly, attach the new bail first with screw opposite of the line roller assembly first.

Reassemble line roller and components onto bail wire assembly. Add Shimano Bantam Oil to the line roller bearing to help keep it properly lubricated. Oiling after use, especially in saltwater is a good way to maintain the line roller assembly.

Replacement of line roller bearing and/or bail assembly is now complete.

Use the diagnostic procedure to ensure that the repair has been properly performed.

Got problems? Call Shimano Customer Service at 1-877-577-0600.