Okay, I'm looking at getting a 2nd casting reel and have my eye on the all new Shimano Caenan 150. I know most Shimano guys will tell me Shimano reels start at Citica but the fact is I don't have the money for those, I am eyeing some eBay auctions for the Caenan and should be able to get it at a much more reasonable price for my wallet. Anyhow, I notice that the Caenan doesn't have the adjustable brake dial on the side like my Lew's does...my question is how do you adjust the brakes than?

Open sideplate, adjust brake pins.

OIC...thanks!

And I recommend that you place a tiny drop of oil on the break pin(s) you decide to use. It facilitates the brakes sliding more efficiently.  Until the new Chronarch and Curado series this year, all the Shimano brakes were as you have in the Caenan.  Try starting with two.  Enjoy.

Be careful oiling centrifugal brake pins. They can be made sticky. Best to just keep them clean. 

16 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

Be careful oiling centrifugal brake pins. They can be made sticky. Best to just keep them clean. 

What's the best way to do that?

Just wipe them down with a small amount of alcohol 

so maybe use some rubbing alcohol on a q-tip?

I should have added that I use Oust Met Oil on my brake pins,  Works great, at least it has for the last 16 years.

If you are on a budget, why not another Lew's?  My Lew's Tournament MB cost me $119 and is every bit as good as my Shimano Curado, which was $50 more. I think Lew's are the best around for the money.

Also check out the Diawa Tatula.  I bought one recently for $99 and have been impressed.

I might actually look at the new Daiwa Fuego which American Legacy Fishing has on sale for $77. It has 12 bearings and the Magforce Z cast control, looks good too.