Hyser

Agree. Guys that eliminate the friction ring may want to use a heavier grease on the gears to prevent the bail closing on casts. Thanks for your input k3bass.

Yes, found this out too! The inner tube band is just the right thickness to get it done. Won't be buying anymore rings from Shimano. Small DC stepper motor belts turned smooth side out also work.

Sorry, Sahara 750FB. The gap between the body and and left side cover. Seems the real purpose of the ring is to cover this gap.I took a picture but unsure how to post.

I just serviced two Sahara 750FH and two Symetre 750FL reels. The rings that Shimano sent me were way too thick for this series of reels (part# RD8147). The Shimano parts guy told me that the old number was crossed to this new number. Not! Now I have to complain in hopes of returning to get a full refund. Here's what I used for replacement rings: bicycle innertube 26" x 1 1/4" x 1 3/8" cut into 1/8" wide straight strips with scissors. They are stiff enough to cover the gap leading to the gearbox. Fit perfect!