My Abu reels have been great reels. I did have to send my first c4 reel back as I had the same problem as RockLizard. All my Abu reels are baitcasters. I am not sure if yours was a baitcaster or spinning reel. I use Shimano spinning reals but there are certain things that are not good for them. I have learned not to dunk my spinning reels in the water as they start to seize up but are still good after a good cleaning. I have one Shimano Corsair baitcaster. I did some work on friends drift boat trailer and he sold it new to me for $10. I would not pay full price for one. The drag is not good and I have lost fish after tripping the thumb bar when setting the hook.