I have a not-very-old Tatula SV TW Limited 103HL that has either a bent spool shaft, a damaged pinion gear, or both. I'm also missing the handle cover and screw. The former may or may not be covered under warranty. The latter shouldn't be since it was certainly my fault.

 

The Daiwa Reel Repair Request Form says to send the reel to Daiwa in Cypress, CA. But their warranty page also lists authorized warranty repair centers. Am I better off sending it to Daiwa or picking a service center nearby (Tackle Trap, maybe)? Apologies if this subject has been beaten to death.

I don't think any of that would be covered under warranty. Don't see how you get a bent shaft or damaged pinion from normal operation without tearing it apart.

 

I'd just find a reputable local company. 

Send it to Daiwa if it is under 1 year warranty. If it is missing parts they may charge you for those. 

I had a Daiwa Tatula that was new and didn't sound right about a month after I purchased it, I simply completed the Service Form on their website and shipped it to their repair center along with your receipt of purchase. They took care of the repairs at no cost beside the cost of shipping to them, which will maybe cost you $9-12 USPS Priority Mail.

If you can get it warrantied by all means go that route. If not, feel free to send it in. 

2 hours ago, Delaware Valley Tackle said:

If you can get it warrantied by all means go that route. If not, feel free to send it in. 

 

I guess my question is: What's the difference between sending it to Daiwa versus sending it to a Daiwa-certified warranty center?

 

(It's on its way to the Tackle Trap so it's kind of academic at this point - I just want it fixed)

14 hours ago, jimanchower said:

I guess my question is: What's the difference between sending it to Daiwa versus sending it to a Daiwa-certified warranty center?

In the case of a B&M like TTT you get an experienced Daiwa expert who you can actually communicate with vs a faceless repair drone at Daiwa with no real shot at communication until a bill shows up to your inbox.