Reel bearings

[Nay-aug]

Why are most of the reel bearings behind the spool only shielded on one side. Wouldn't a sealed, lubed for life bearing (double shielded) be better. Obvious answer is so it can be lubricated, but double shielded bearings gives you all that without worry. Double shields are used in many heavy duty industrial applications? Your thoughts?

[oc1]

There are threads here about how to pry the shields offf with a needle so the bearing is easier to clean.  Once the shield is removed it may be impossible to replace.  Shields can keep out particulate debris but can't make the bearing water poof.  Boca Bearing and Amazon have small reel-size bearings with double rubber seals.

Some industrial pump bearings constantly flush clean water into the bearing and let it run out around the seals to keep out salt and grit

[jgp12000]

I have never tried to pry off the SS shields only the plastic, can it be done?

[tincanary]

I have never tried to pry off the SS shields only the plastic, can it be done?

Yes, I did that to the bearings I sold to you lol.  I use an awl to pop the retaining clip, then the shields come right off.  I run spool bearings without shields, so much easier to clean, plus crud doesn't get trapped inside.

[Nay-aug]

Thanks for the comments, yes a lighter grease does make sense and cleaning. Grease in the lubed for life bearings maybe too heavy! Sorry for the multiple post.

[jurelometer]

There are threads here about how to pry the shields offf with a needle so the bearing is easier to clean.  Once the shield is removed it may be impossible to replace.  Shields can keep out particulate debris but can't make the bearing water poof.  Boca Bearing and Amazon have small reel-size bearings with double rubber seals.

Some industrial pump bearings constantly flush clean water into the bearing and let it run out around the seals to keep out salt and grit

Agree.


Those metal shields provide significant benefit.  They help keep lubricants in and contaminants out.  They do not contribute much at all to moving mass or friction, which is why nearly all ball bearings of this type come with shields, and why fishing reel manufacturers choose to use them.

Those "sealed" ball bearings with rubber shields do add a bit more to friction.

It has become a common practice here to remove shields on ball bearings that are involved in revolving spool casting.  The only advantage I see is that it makes it faster to completely clean the bearings.  I don't do it on my reels, and have always questioned this practice, but there are plenty of members  here who  do reel maintenance  as a business that swear by it. 

-J