Ive been using braid since the 90s.i will never use under 50 lb on a bait caster.Also if your going to replace it go with Vicious No Fade Braid in 50 lb.the shallower your spool the less it can dig.i use Lews baitcasters and don't get dig with this line in that lb.test.all the other tips u got help also.
Buy a wood dowel 1 inch by 12 and wrap around dowel instead of risking damage to your equipment.