I have a 7000C3 and am happy with it for the most part. The drag is not as good as my spinning reels but it casts well. I use it mostly at the canal so sand is not really a problem. I don't have much experience with the 6500 series myself but I know you can get a new one for a good price from Mike at M&D's website
www.capecodtackle.com
http://www.capecodtackle.com/Merchan...ore_Code=cct01