So I may be just crazy but how does the side plate come off my new Aldebaran that just came in the mail Saturday?  Do I have to take that screw out on the handle side or is there a quick release?  Also, in the box, there were 4 white brakes in a little bag.  Does the reel already have the brakes on the inside or are these extras?  Thanks and please let me know.  It's a beautiful reel and wow is it light!

FIRMLY push the plate down, counter clockwise. The brakes are already on the inside.

Unlike all other Shimano baitcasting reels, the plate comes off this model.

 

 

Ok thanks!  So are the other brakes in the box extras?

I've got that reel and it's phenomenal.  There's a little toggle on the back edge of the sideplate that you have to flip first.  Then proceed like was said.

4 minutes ago, The Bassman said:

I've got that reel and it's phenomenal.  There's a little toggle on the back edge of the sideplate that you have to flip first.  Then proceed like was said.

Oops!  I forgot about that.

 

6 hours ago, Big-Bass said:

Ok thanks!  So are the other brakes in the box extras?

No, they are different in weight.

17 minutes ago, Raul said:

No, they are different in weight.

Mine are the same.  The older vbs reels had different size spares.  There's actually little if any difference in weight between sizes.  It's the amount of "footprint" the brake creates that affects casting.