I own a few Spheros 8000's and I love them. However, I have never had to do much more than a simple flush of soapy hot water after every trip and a nice lubing a few times a summer. I haven't encountered your particular issue. Sorry!
That being said, I now use my VS 200 95% of the time and the Spheros reels have become back-ups. (although for the money they are a GREAT reel)
VS is the only way to go!
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