Shimano Speedmaster 20

[sparksey]

Help! I am servicing a Speedmaster 20 two speed for a friend and it was in pretty bad shape. Water had gotten in and turned the grease to sludge. I have no idea how but all the bearings seem in good shape. After stripping down, cleaning and then cleaning again I have reassembled it a few times but it has a persistant problem. In free spool the handle spins with little effort but when in gear, the handle becomes very stiff. The more drag, the stiffer it gets. Any suggestions? I am totally fine with criticism.

[JasonGotaProblem]

Pinion bearing is probably bad.

[Gfish]

Hello, sparksey! How was it when new?
Can't hurt to replace the pinion bearing and see. If that's the issue, I'd get a couple of 'em just in case.
Probably difficult to do, but check the alignment of the pressure-plate. Is the drag washer clean and level?

[alantani]

it's always the pinion bearing!!!

[sparksey]

Thanks everyone. I have ordered a new bearing and I will let you know the results once I install it.