tld star 15/30 pinion gear problem?

[jzman]

I recently purchased a barely used tld star 15/30.  I followed the tutorial on it and noticed the same problem as some members have had of the pinion and pinion gear sometimes being stuck after being in freespool.  It will take a sharp turn of the handle or movement of the spool for the reel to properly engage.  I checked the pinion gear and noticed two pronounced scratches (maybe gouges) where the gear meets the spool and I think it is the problem.  I'm thinking the spool is getting stuck in the scratch especialy the scratch on the bottom.  Did anyone else noticed this in their reel?  The area is raised so will I be able to sand down this area or do I need a new pinion gear?

[alantani]

usually there is a burr somewhere that is causing the pinion gear to hang up.  that would be my first thought.