Delaware Valley Tackle

If your grease is migrating you're using too much. Anything more than a film between mating surfaces is wasted. Hot sauce grease is horrible as it gums up as had been stated. Any of the greases you use now are good.

You see the common thread that "heavy" is a subjective term. Choose rods that load appropriately to cast well (lure weight rating) and with enough backbone to land fish in the cover you'll fish. A little trial and error is inevitable but part of the fun. Posting inquiries on specific rods here will likely get multiple replies.

I agree that if you want to attempt diy it's probably fixable. Otherwise replace it. I've never seen a gear bend before. If want to email me some pics I'll help you diagnose.

Super Tuning is polishing of friction pints that affect casting. Bearings, drag etc are supplemental upgrades that can further enhance reel performance. Reels with free floating spools like many Daiwas and Revos do not benefit from super tuning yet many shops will still sell you the service. I will not. If you have model specific questions feel free to contact me.

There's a couple devices available and ways to fabricate them. The problem is, the shorter the butt, the more weight is required to get the same feel. I never add weight to my own rods. If you want to kick it around some more feel free to give me a shout.

A qualified Rod builder can splice the broken Rod making it good as new. Probably for less than $75. St croix blanks are available to have just what you want put on it. I hardly ever use a fore grip anymore on bass rods, but the excess threads are trimmed off the seat and a ramp or check is in place.

I've used all three with excellent results. You can muddy the water even more with Rodgeeks, Phoenix, AMT Bushido. Rainshadow and MHX are hard to beat bang for the buck wise (or otherwise for that matter)

Ill be happy to take care of your reel and/or discuss it with you. Contact me at your convenience.

Reels should be deep cleaned periodically. I start at annually, and adjust according to use and if symptoms appear. In between the best thing you can do is keep them free of visible debris, dry before storing and oil accessible spots that appear dry.

For one thing, the heavy and mh maybe very similar since there is no standard for the terms. Consider Why the pro and builder each suggests what they do. Then factor in where and how you fish and use your own sense to decide. I have heard some suggestions by successful pro anglers that I just don't buy. Listen with an open mind but decide for yourself.

Agreed these are the going rate.

Ya that's a steal.

The glue used in a tip top repair kit is a higher temp glue than regular hot melt adhesive you might see in the craft section.

If it's the part rippin/lips referred to he is correct. Those are sometimes called a slide washer and can be a problem on certain models. A dab of grease between the washer and frame can help hold them in place and oiling the contact between washer and thumb bar is appropriate.

Gears are directional so they need to specifically for a lefty. The gears from other models with the same frame and gear case will work. When a model with the gearing you want is available commercially it's almost always more cost effective to add or swap a reel out. If you decide to proceed contact me fit assistance.

You have the basics covered. When circumstances allow, I'd look at adding a finesse spinning setup ML/XF and Hvy 7'6" flipping setup. You don't need all five in the boat. The boater should give you an idea what to expect in where and how he'll be fishing.

I'm a proponent of the PQ as a great value reel especially on sale (which is regularly). I'd hesitate to pay a lot if any extra for a painted up one. Bearing count is next to meaningless. I've heard insider commentary that the pq that comes in combos is different which is disappointing. I doubt they'd shoot themselves in the foot by passing off an inferior model as limited edition.

The selection is somewhat limited as well. St Croix, Rainshadow, MHX have robust lines.

Overall build quality and performance are comparable in models with like features and price point. Longevity wise, Shimano has a very good track record that's hard to argue with.

"Locked down" is the off position.

The E and older various models

The model kit listings can be helpful, but not a substitute for first hand experience. It's not as cut and dried as it appears on the surface. Let me know if I can help.

Wish you a speedy and full recovery. Get well soon. You can't fish for a while, but on the bright side, the off season leads to some uh............." interesting" forum threads!

There are multiple bearing sizes that fit specific applications as well as materials and ABEC ratings. You would need a spool pin removal tool as well got your reels. I strongly suggest you or anyone reading this, contact me via, email or phone to discuss ways to improve reel performance. Mike

Fast action, but soft tip. Med power is usually sufficient for the baits I throw.