How do you know when to replace drag washers? I have a 560 Slammer and the keyed metal drag washer under the spool has about 5 different circular marks. Does this mean it should be replaced or maybe can just be polished?

If the drag is sticking or not working well after cleaning it, then I would replace the fiber washers. I have not had to replace any of the metal washers on my reels. If it works well, then leave it alone.

Drag washers are pretty cheap. When in doubt, replace them. The scars on that washer were probably due to some sand that got in there and then you cranked down the drag and it cut into the washer. It probably is embedded in the soft washer. I would replace the soft washers at least every season anyway the metal as needed. Sometimes you will flatten the soft washers and you can actually bottom out the drag screw before enough drag is produced. This can be rather annoying when you are on the beach and the bite is on.

Thanks Guys - Sandman you are right they are cheap I am going to pickup a set.

How do you remove the washers on a penn 6500??

Take the spool off the reel. There is a clip that holds the drag washers in the spool under where the drag knob screws on. The drag stack will come out of the spool. Pay attention to the order the washers are in and be sure to put them back in the reel the same way...

If you have the original paper work that came with the reel, then you should have the diagram showing the process and parts ID.