How to Clean and Lubricate an Alvey 650A Reel: Step-by-Step Guide for Smooth Casting

Your Alvey 650A reel is built to last but like any good piece of gear it needs regular maintenance to keep it in top form. Whether you're new to reel maintenance or just looking to brush up on your skills this guide will walk you through the process of taking apart, cleaning, and lubricating your Alvey sidecasting reel. Paired with our detailed YouTube video you'll have everything you need to keep your reel casting smoothly for years to come.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before we get started, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand: a small flat head screwdriver, pliers and or a spanner, soft cloths, an old toothbrush, mild detergent, reel oil, and grease. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and easier.

Step 1: Disassembling the Reel

First things first, let’s carefully take apart the reel. Begin by removing the keeper nut and star nut. Remove them carefully as well as the drag stack. Remove the spool from the backing plate. Carefully lay out the drag mechanism. Remember to keep all the small parts like screws in a safe place perhaps in a small dish or on a magnetic mat so nothing goes missing. Bubble wrap or packing paper works well.

Step 2: Cleaning the Reel Components

Once disassembled it’s time to give each part a thorough clean. Use warm water mixed with a mild detergent to remove salt, sand, and grime. A toothbrush is perfect for scrubbing those hard-to-reach spots especially around the drag mechanism cavity. After washing, be sure to dry every piece thoroughly with a soft cloth to prevent any corrosion.

Step 3: Inspecting for Wear and Tear

As you’re cleaning take a close look at each component. Check for any signs of wear, especially on the spool, drag washers, and handle. If anything looks worn out or damaged it’s a good idea to replace it now rather than risking a failure later.

Step 4: Lubricating the Reel

Now that everything is clean and dry, it’s time to lubricate. Use reel oil on moving parts like the handle and drag mechanism and apply a small amount of grease to the gears and spindle. Be careful not to overdo it—too much lubrication can attract sand and dirt and cause issues down the line. Less is more in this case otherwise sand can collect and grind and wear out components.

Step 5: Reassembling the Reel

With everything clean and lubricated you can start putting the reel back together. Carefully reassemble each part, making sure everything is aligned correctly. Test the fit and movement as you go. Once reassembled, give the reel a few turns to ensure it’s operating smoothly. If it feels stiff or doesn’t turn freely double-check your work—sometimes a little adjustment or extra lubrication can make all the difference.

Troubleshooting and Final Thoughts

If you encounter any issues after reassembling, don’t worry. Common problems, like stiffness or excessive drag, are usually easy to fix with a bit of tweaking. Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your Alvey surf and rock reels in top shape ensuring it’s always ready for your next fishing adventure.

For a step-by-step visual guide be sure to watch our YouTube video where we walk you through each part of the process in detail. If you found this guide helpful don’t forget to like the video and subscribe to our channel for more fishing tips, gear guides, and maintenance tutorials. Your support helps us continue bringing you the best content to keep your gear—and your fishing game—in peak condition.

Tight lines, and see you on the water!