I would first have a good schematic print of how that thing goes back together before you even open it up. Some things do go SPROING! when you least expect it. There are several levels of gearing that must go back together exact. If you are mechanically inclined no problem, just get a print first.

You mentioned that your reel dosen't cast as far as it did when you first purchased it. Changing the gear retrive ratio will not make it cast longer distances. The only thing that can make it do that is to insure that you have the proper amount of line loaded on the spool. How much line you have lost over the year due to break off could be part of the problem or not loading the spool completely initally. Although a good lube of the gearing will help smooth the retrive lubing the drag washer in Abu Garcia bait casting reels is Not Recommended by the manufacture.

Here is a link, click on tips and select bait casting reel tips.

http://www.abu-garcia.com/home.cfm

[ 01-19-2002: Message edited by: SkaGuy ]