for first timers. new members, or even veterans that just need a quick answer

[cbar45]

Don't have that reel, but to clarify, are you saying the drag feels "sandy" now after things went back together?

For carbon washers, just apply grease evenly and thoroughly, then pat off the excess with a rag. No need to try and get it super dry.

[Congerslayer]

Here's a picture

Yes, that is the greased drag, lol.

Might explain why  it feels essentially dry still.

PS: I figured the lack of free spool out, the grease I smeared on the left, non drag side of the reel apparently was enough to cause some 'binding' not actual binding but enough to stop the reel from actually spinning freely. Not sure it would actually impact casting much but not willing to risk it so whiped it off. I see why our favorite free-spin fanatic, the one and only Alan Tani just uses Corrosion X spray, instead of grease, since a little excess grease seems to wreak havoc on freespinning.

[Congerslayer]

How the greased iternals looked before I wiped them down again:

[Congerslayer]

Also, I trued my best toblook for it but couldn't find any info on thrust bearing, I will probably upgrade all bearings but does anyone have a source for a fitting thrust bearing that can be sourced 3rd party or will I have to get myself a measuring tool and go look for myself?