If you are "handy" with mechanical devices the reel is pretty simple, when you put it back together be sure everything goes back in the correct notch all the way or the spring could propel parts in to the lake while fishing. The reels I am familiar with come apart with moving a ring that holds the cover on, you probably move it to the left and lift it off. Depress the lever before removing to release all the spring energy. A part of needlenose pliers or forceps and a small screwdriver should be about all the tools you should need. WD40, light oil and a light grease will provide adequate lubrication.

If you have a rod you are comfortable letting him make few cast with take him out and let him cast a modern flyrod. I'm guessing he will be looking for a graphite rod and a single action reel. Cabelas and BPS both had outfits well under a C note that cast better and are more pleasant to use than a quarter pound reel and old glass rod. At new 5 wt and a single action reel with a decent drag can make the day much more pleasant.