Shimano Stella reel maintenance

[tysdad115]

I go here http://fish.shimano.com/content/sac-...e-centre1.html

Download the service/warranty request form and send it to Irvine , CA Always fast service. I had a few minor issues in 5 years..they didn't replace my grinding line roller once, and once my bail screw was left loose. But I check it over when I get it back. Overall I'm happy with their service, and I beat my gear up.. the Stella is not meant to be dunked, trust me!
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

[numbskull]

Originally Posted by tysdad115

the Stella is not meant to be dunked, trust me!

THIS.....Amen.

When the reel first came out there was a whole lot of internet misinformation that the stella was every bit as well sealed as a VS or ZB. It was wrong. Shimano was clear when I asked them that the reel was not meant to be submergible and my experience backs that up. I have had my 5000sw fail abruptly (i.e., nearly seize up) twice because of water intrusion from momentary dunking or repeated splash exposure (yeah I'd not expect a reel to fail suddenly from water intrusion but what I think happens is that the tolerances inside a stella are so close that salt crystals form and jam the main gear). I quit using it in conditions where this is likely to recur and reluctantly switched to a VS150 instead. That said, the stella is still my favorite spinning reel to fish and the nicest reel I've ever used.