JM PE6 drag issue

[njpete]

Bought a used JM PE6 and was having a drag issue. I set the drag to 16-18lbs at strike and periodically the drag seems to bind (rough, sticking and not smooth). It seems to only do it when the reel handle is pointing down to the floor. Don’t know if this handle position has anything to do with it but that’s what it seems like. When I reel in a little line and check the drag again, it is fine. I decided to take the reel apart and noticed a gouge in the front drag plate. It seems to be rubbing against the set plate for the anti reverse dog. Any ideas what could cause this?

[redsetta]

G'day and welcome Pete,
It appears the dog post isn't fully bedding into the set plate.
Might pay to remove the plate, check the fit of the dog post and also check it's still flat (as the plate is likely to have distorted slightly around the post).
Let us know how you get on.
Good luck, Justin