i was taking apart my baitcaster for the first time today to clean it. it was difficult to access some stuff. First i got the reel handle off, then got the face plate off and to the drag. But i had to go somewhere so i put it back together i swear the same way i took it apart. When i got it back together to see if i didnt screw it up it seems as if my tension knob doesnt have as much tension anymore. When i toss my 3/8 oz buzz baits and set it up when i crank the knob to its max it barely stops me from back lashing when it hits the ground. What would you guys do?

i was taking apart my baitcaster for the first time today to clean it. it was difficult to access some stuff. First i got the reel handle off, then got the face plate off and to the drag. But i had to go somewhere so i put it back together i swear the same way i took it apart. When i got it back together to see if i didnt screw it up it seems as if my tension knob doesnt have as much tension anymore. When i toss my 3/8 oz buzz baits and set it up when i crank the knob to its max it barely stops me from back lashing when it hits the ground. What would you guys do?

Did you add oil?

a little to the base of the reel handle so it reels smoother

a little to the base of the reel handle so it reels smoother

well if you didn't get too much in the under the tension knob that shouldn't make a difference. Second thought is, did any of the pieces inside the knob fall out?

well if you didn't get too much in the under the tension knob that shouldn't make a difference. Second thought is, did any of the pieces inside the knob fall out?

nope i didnt even get to the tension knob area

nope i didnt even get to the tension knob area

Well, I would check part placement with a schematic.

what reel?

not a reel many would know about. Its a field and stream verado 601. but i took it all apart and put it back together. all fixed

do you know what you did wrong?

do you know what you did wrong?

I think. I just tried to wipe up some parts to get a little access oil or grease around the tension knob and what do you know it worked. I guess Ken was right, some leaked in. thanks for all the responses.

Less is more when it comes to lube. Be careful just adding lube on top of old lube and dirt. You may do more harm than good.