typical drag washer configuration

[alantani]

there is one last possibility.  in the case where the threads of the star and/or the threads of the drive shaft are loose, worn or damaged, the star could actually "slip" one row of threads.  i was seeing that problem it avet lever drag reels, where the preset knob was slipping under a load.  in the case of a star drag reel, if the star was going to slip, the problem would occur while you are setting the drag, so you would notice immediately.   

it would suddenly go from righty tighty to righty loosey!!!!

[Lunker Larry]

You might be on to something Alan. I have seen residue from the threads in the star drags from forcing and over tightening. It may be something as simple as that. The design of these reels is for the quick adjustment with just a flick of the finger to either loosen or tighten the drag so it wouldn't take much to cause the star drag too loosen.

I think this has been pretty much beat to death LOL. Thank you all for your input. Much appreciated.

LL