Picked up a AG Pro Max 2 reel at Gander Mountain closeout sale. Spooling it up today and noticed line would come off reel too easily with thumb bar clicked so attempted to adjust the break. Tightened it all the way down and line came off the spool just as fast. Only gave it a few turns the back the other way and brake knob went flying off along with two click washers and click spring. The ball bearing and retaining spring appeared to be in place, so I put click washer back on, click spring, another washer and then the knob and now it's still not working. Looking at the parts sheet the order is Brake knob, click washer, rubber washer, friction washer, click spring, click washer. However it doesn't appear that the rubber and friction washers are anywhere to be found, and I'm 90% sure they didn't fall to the floor when the knob popped off. Anybody have an idea what's going on here? Did I get a reel with missing parts or is brake knob assembly just not together right? I don't have long to get it resolved because the Gander Mountain will be closed for good by next weekend, and I sure as heck don't want to have to deal with mailing a new reel back to AG for servicing.

Go directly back to GM.  Get your money back. Just tell them the reel did not work period. Do not even mention you looked at it or took it apart.  If they give your money back consider a Diawa Exceler from Tackle Warehouse. It is a very nice reel, and is on sale for $50.  These reels sold for $99 just a few months ago.

I'd swap it out for another.  It's not worth the hassle.