How to find the right ball bearings for your reel

What the ball bearing size means

The size is always in the same order: inner diameter, then outer diameter, then width. So a bearing labeled 3 x 10 x 4 means:

With these three values, you find every suitable replacement or tuning bearing. You don’t need more.

How to measure the size yourself

You only need calipers, digital or analog, and two minutes.

1. Remove bearing. On baitcasters, the bearing is often behind a small retaining clip. Carefully lift it off so nothing springs away.
2. Measure inner diameter. Measure the inner diameter of the bore, the first value.
3. Measure outer diameter. Measure the total diameter on the outside, the second value.
4. Measure width. Take the height of the bearing from the side, the third value.

Write down the three numbers in the order inner, outer, width. That way you know exactly which bearing fits and never order the wrong one again.

When you should replace the bearings

There are two good reasons.

Especially with older Reels or after use in saltwater, replacing bearings brings noticeable improvement.

Which Spool bearings you need to replace

When tuning for more power, the Spool bearings are the first place to look. They directly determine how easily and quickly the Spool spins, and thus how far and sensitively you cast. But the location of the bearings is not the same on every Reel.

Option 1: A ball bearing is on the Spool

If you remove the Spool and see a bearing directly on the Spool, usually at the end of the axle, then you replace:

• the ball bearing on the Spool
• Additionally, the ball bearing in the sideplate, i.e., the cover opposite the crank

Both work together during the cast and hold the spool. A new bearing on the spool brings little if the one in the sideplate is still old and stiff. So always replace both.

Variant 2: No ball bearing on the spool

In some models, the spool runs on the axle bearing without a bearing directly on the spool. Then you replace:

• The bearing in the sideplate, opposite the crank
• The bearing under the Spool Tension Cap, on the crank side under the small cover cap

Here, the two outer bearings take over guidance and rotational pleasure. Again: only if both run smoothly do you get the full potential.

How to find out which design your reel has

1. Open the sideplate, depending on the model by flip mechanism or screw
2. Carefully pull out the spool
3. If a bearing sits directly on the spool, it is variant 1. If none sits on it, it is variant 2.

The Pin Remover for easy bearing replacement

If your spool has a ball bearing, it is almost always secured by a small pin. This can be quite tight. Without the right tool, you can easily bend the pin or damage the spool.

What the Pin Remover does

• It removes the pin safely and without damaging the spool
• The old bearing can be easily removed and replaced
• Inserting the pin also goes smoothly with it

How to use it:

View Pin Remover

Apex, Edge, or Core: which class suits you

All our spool bearings are built for high speeds. The difference lies in tuning to your lure spectrum: material, ball quality, cage, and ABEC class. The decisive factor is not just the ABEC rating but the entire design and how it fits your casting weight.

Which bearing fits your reel

Don’t want to measure yourself or want to know immediately which bearings fit your model? Then use the Reel Finder. Select your reel, and you’ll instantly see the suitable sizes and sets.

To the Reel Finder

ABEC explained simply

The ABEC rating evaluates the manufacturing precision of a bearing. The higher the number, the more precise the bearing and the smoother the operation.

ABEC 5 is sufficient for robust all-round reels and heavy baits. ABEC 9 shows its strength in tuning and light baits.

Oil, seal, and maintenance

Ceramic and hybrid bearings (Apex and Edge)

• Run with or without oil. Without oil, less friction but slightly more noise. With oil, a bit more resistance but quieter and longer-lasting.
• Edge is available with Orange Seal for more protection against dirt and moisture, or without seal for minimal resistance and maximum spinning pleasure.

Stainless steel bearings (Core)

• Always oil. For big baits and saltwater, additionally apply light grease.

The lighter the bait, the more important precise, smooth-running bearings are. For heavy baits, the casting weight itself provides momentum, so a robust stainless steel bearing is sufficient.

Your reel contains even more bearings

Besides the reel bearings, there are other bearings inside the reel:

• Worm shaft bearings, for line lay
• Pinion gear bearings, on the main shaft
• Knob bearings, in the handles
• Level-wind bearings

The biggest effect on casting distance and smoothness comes from the reel bearings, so start there. If you want to overhaul the entire reel, get a complete set.

View complete tuning kits

Conclusion

Bearing tuning is easier than you think and makes a noticeable difference. Whether more casting distance, smoother operation, or simply replacing old bearings: with the right size and the appropriate class, your reel runs smoothly again. Measure quickly or use the Reel Finder, select your class, done.

Tight lines and always free bearings
Danny