Just to follow up on this. I took the bearings out a cleaned and re lubed with light oil. Made a huge difference, I actually have no desire to upgrade bearing or reel. After using this reel and becoming more experienced with a pin I'm actually very happy with my purchase and will not be purchasing another reel for as long as this set up is performing. Took me awhile but I know completely understand it really has nothing to do with the equipment it's how it's used, maintained and mostly how what under the water is presented. Can have the best of everything and means nothing if you don't present to the quarry properly. Sure is cheaper this way...lol