Hello again, 

 

I recently picked up a EXOPT as the title says and the tension knob is unlike any other.

at the proper tension it feels like its going to fall off, lol.

but then again, i am used to a Non-clicker knob and i guess thats how its supposed to feel.

Dont judge me on the rod, its my shortest one, and makes threading the line easier for first spooling. 

I've got the same reel. It shouldn't be loose even when backed off. I only tighten mine to take the side to side play out of the spool, and it's still secure on the reel. You can always try backing it all the way off and see if it's actually close to being off where you have it set. 

Check a schematic to be sure all the spacers are there along with the rubber ring on the threads if so equipped.