BB,

I have been running 18# and 20# Maxima UG as a mainline with no issues of fraying. The one tip I'll pass along is filing the edges of the tow bar after it has been cut and before you you pull it through. This will alleviate the rough edges.

You could also leave the tow bar intact and tie the leader directly of the barrel swivel under the plug. The only issue is getting the plug to run true. A good solid knot on top of the tow bar is the key here..

I have also ran the J-plug styles of plug with this setup. Just add a barrel to the split ring under the plug and tie the leader off directly.

You're heavier mono should be ok- never tried it, and I don't see the action being killed too much (similiar weight to the old wire loops we ran). It's worth a shot I have only tied directly to the barrel swivel (as shown). If I want to change setups, I just changed rods.. It also gives me opportunity to keep checking the knots.

Let me know how your setup works...