Delaware Valley Tackle

Spinner baits are notoriously non aerodynamic. There may have been mild environmental conditions you didn’t notice, breeze etc? Also, spinners are often much heavier than their listed weight with blades, skirts and trailers added. I doubt you’re looking at anything mechanical

If you’ve ever used a mid tier ABU, Lews or Pflueger, the Carbonlite compares favorably

I also see no downside to U40.

I’m happy to fix your reel or even troubleshoot with you if you contact me.

As we often discuss, M, MH etc are subjective terms with no industry standard to define them. For example, two rods may both be rated to cast 1/4-3/4, one labeled M and another MH. The MH may have more backbone making it a better choice in heavier cover. Look at the lure weight rating first, then think about the cover and be sure you have the power you need. Whatever designation the manufacturer puts on it means little.

Thank you

I keep a spool of elastic string to tie on guides when I can slide a band on

In close, accurate target casting is where they shine.

I can’t for the life of figure out why they’re doing this unless the real goal is to discourage service altogether to sell replacements which may even be an unintended consequence. After the warranty period I’d service them as usual if they were mine but I don’t want to be on the hook for telling anyone else to do it.

This is like a reunion seeing all the names again.

The cause of missing inserts is at least partially due to handling. Reeling weights into the tip, poking snags free, rod lockers, bumps, bangs, crushes etc. ? nothing to do with braid. Yes some higher quality guides take more abuse before showing signs but none are immune. The only fix is replacement of the guide. Tips are easier, both can be diy if you’re handy and not overly concerned with cosmetics. A professional repair won’t break the bank either.

I have a handful of old pistol grips I’ve salvaged.

The step up from SLX to Curado is real but not game changing. Unless you want or need DC I’d look Chronarch or Metanium.

I like the bands out near the tip. Surgical tubing needs to be double over to get the tension I want which makes them bulky

Also not a fan of split seats. Never saw a real advantage on the water. A water break free surface prep and full adhesive coverage will save you headaches

The application is right for casting tackle but your reasons are contradictory. The reel won’t make a difference in hook set, however the heavier tackle will in circumstances. Skipping casting tackle can be done for sure but spinning makes it way easier especially if you’re backlash concerned. Quality wise you can hardly go wrong at your price point.

Assuming you didn’t lose a part, chances are the AR sleeve is upside down fat end faces up toward the spool. If you can’t get it send it in at your convenience.

Fishing is supposed to be fun. If mastering bait cast tackle is taking from the experience by all means move on with what you know and enjoy. For anyone reading that’s considering trying casting reels I strongly encourage you to do so.

The SLX is a variation of proven shimano platform. Buy and use with confidence

Modern braid and quality SS guides should be fine together

Excessive amount or “thick” grease do not make gears smooth. I don’t believe the interface of reel gears is precise enough to require indexing. I’ve seen no evidence or second hand proof of “wearing in”. It’s common though for reels to have a little more feel and/or sound after being freed up by cleaning. It’s not a sign of anything wrong. You can fine tune to get a preferred feel thoroughly cleaning and repacking frame bearings may help. It varies by reels.

Bad idea

There’s a new Gen Revo winch that just came out.

Brake noise is often misdiagnosed as bearing noise. Keeping the drum and tabs clean and lightly oiled is good practice.

I agree with Mick regarding the over emphasis on technique specific rods. The way to look at them is that they are exceptionally good for the suggested technique, as a matter of opinion by the builder/seller/ designer etc. ymmv. As for your arsenal you should be good unless you want to punch mats etc. Just match them to baits that load and cast well taking note of the cover you’re fishing. With that in mind, I’ll throw a fluke on casting tackle in cover but prefer spinning tackle in shallow, clear open water. Exposed hook and long casts. Also for skipping docks