Delaware Valley Tackle

I’ve handled these and agree they are a fine collection.

U40 cork sealer is a water based polymer. All it does is provide a thin film to repel dirt and moisture. It’s not slippery, doesn’t harm the cork or change its properties in any way.

KVD l&l is a polymer based product that bonds to the line. Products like wd 40 and reel magic contain petroleum distillates that actually slightly degrade mono and fluoro softening them which makes them more manageable. KVD is better for the environment to boot.

That’s not a screw that requires any torque at all but you see that already. Loctite might be enough if there’s some threads left I can’t tell from here. Don’t jb weld it tight or you’ll never get the side plate off. You can jb weld the hole them drill and tap to original size. Again, we’re just spit balling here sight unseen

I second the ML spinning rig for versatility from the bank.

Since there’s no industry standard for H or MH and baits and cover vary, a suitable rod might be labeled either way. In the scenario of full size hollow body frogs over pads or matted grass, rods typically labeled as H work best. Something rated up to 1oz with a beefy butt.

7# of drag is sufficient for 20# mono or fluoro. More only increases chances of damage to rod and reel as well as failure of line and connections.

Your product choice is correct. Fill deep holes in layers for most solid repair. Consider finishing with U40 cork sealer. No it doesn’t change the color or make them slippery.

True, no two mechanical devices are actually identical. It’s common to notice slight differences. What you’re seeing could be variations in lubrication, time on retail shelves, use/ break in, etc. You’re on the right track in putting a hard season on each then doing a deep clean.

Short answer, no

Those gears nor bearings have not worn out so quickly. What you feel is just the result of a very light weight rigid frame transmitting feel similar to a high end rod. Frequent cleaning and a little extra grease can treat the symptoms temporarily but just mask it.

First, I haven’t been able to talk to anyone at Pure Fishing since the Covid lock down so I feel ya. I have the fix for the binding. Call or email me and I’ll help you out.

Yes on the friction ring. Send it at your convenience if you wish.

The Avid spinning mh blank is a touch lighter power rated 3/8-3/4.

No blank is arrow straight but a bend that deep in the blank is unusual. Whether or not it indicates potential failure is conjecture but better safe than sorry.

Two different reels with different focus: light weight performance vs super rigid smooth.

Forward royalties to……

Excluding the enthusiast pursuit of BFS, 10# line is a light as I use on bait casting tackle.

Gear ratio and smoothness are unrelated for the most part. The perceived difference in feel could be caused by any number of environmental, mechanical or design causes. It’s impossible to diagnose sight unseen.

I don’t buy the theory of pulling the bait away from the fish. If they want it, they’ll get it. If you’re having short strikes it’s due to fish mood, bait size, retrieve speed or cadence, possibly color.

There are two basic philosophies in blank manufacturing. Thin wall / large diameter and thick wall / small diameter. Both work equally well just two ways to skin a cat.

If problem persists send it in and I’ll take care of it. No amount of grease or over tightening will cause your problem and I’ll be surprised if changing drag washers corrects it.

A 5” true Senko is pretty heavy. I cast them on Mh casting rods. Your rod is light powered for them. More finesse baits like 3” senkos, Ned’s, trick worms etc on sharp thin wire hooks should work fine. Obviously landing bigger fish will mean judicious use of drag and actually fighting the fish. Gentle handling and revival prior to release may be called for.

If you don’t have a compressor get a can of compressed air and can of electrical parts cleaner. Alternate until debris is removed. Use eye protection. Oil when done.

I just had one in for cleaning that had been used hard pike fishing. It’s well built and holding up to heavy duty. A good value in baitcaster reels.