Another source is John's Sporting Goods in Everett. John's family has owned this store for years and he is the Shimano and Abu Garcia authrized repair shop in WA.

What he told me was to spray the reel down with WD-40 after use in the salt, a light coating, and then wipe off the excess. I think the idea is that it will protect the finish and displace any water that tries to penetrate into the moving parts. ??? I was skeptical, as I read so often to spray a reel down with fresh water.

When I took my buddy's reel in for maintenance, John showed me the inside of the spool where water had gotten inside and totally rusted the spool. He again emphasized the WD-40 method.

I do as John said as an experiment now for about a year. So far no problems and it does keep the finish looking nice. I think he told me to be careful not to over oil the reel also. I just use a drop on my levelwind or sometimes spray it with Zep lubricant. (The Zep is my own idea because it works so well for other items, I love the stuff)

Please post whatever you learn as you call around!