Fishing reel maintenance tips and hints from Bob Hulme and Bjorne Evermann from the Abu Garcia team (USA office and Sweden plant).

Rule N.1:
Keep it clean! Never lay it on the ground and wipe it often

Rule N.2:
Make it clean before storing it. Clean off any dust, mud, filth at the end of each fishing trip.

Rule N.3:
The worm gear level wind system is sensitive. Lubricate it lightly up to once a month with proper oil (teflon or silicon based oil) + follow reel booklet lubrication instructions.

Rule N.4:
Apply some oil to the reel handle, too. It needs it.

Rule N.5:
Salt-water anglers should rinse it off with fresh water gently after each fishing trip. Mind the water getting inside. Again, rinse it GENTLY.

Rule N.6:
Apply silicon spray regularly and cautiously (not on the line! In case, remove the spool). Then wipe it down to remove the excess spray.

Rule N.7:
Loosen the drag before you store it!

Rule N.8:
Store it in a bag or case an put it in a dry, clean place to prevent dust accumulation.

Rule N.9:
Don't over lubricate!

Rule N.10:
Once a year or more frequently, completely disassemble for a thorough cleaning and lubrication or send it to a reel repair service.

Rule N.11:
Never lubricate the drag washers of an Abu Ambassadeur reel. The Abu Garcia drag system is designed to function without lubrication - unlike other baitcasting reels.

...and if despite everything the reel breaks down or stop working properly (soon or later it will happen) wanna look where to go for a fishing reel repair service?

From my page on Fishing Reel Maintenance tips and hints to the fishing reel main page