Faulty Reel?

[scombroid]

I purchased a spinning reel online just 3 weeks ago, it is a Daiwa Shinobi Plus 3550 (see http://www.gerrysfishing.com/shop_detai ... 09&tabID=1). The reel had been working a treat on my first 6 outings, however this evening I headed out again (had first blank in 7 outings) and found that it has become very stiff on the retrieve.

Also, when the switch at bottom of reel is flicked to let out line you really have to pull at the line to get the reel to release it. The last time I used the reel I caught a few bass and laid the rod & reel down on the wet sand a few times - could this be the problem that it has collected sand inside?

I am wondering whether to open up the reel to try and clean it out in case sand is the issue, or whether to return it to supplier. Surely a reel should be able to be placed down on wet sand without this stiffness developing? I fear if I open the reel I may void any warranty I have on it.

Any tips / advice / info on similar experiences would be much appreciated !

[The Austrian]

hard luck with the new reel, seems that sand has been washed into it, check out the post here for a direct link to Daiwa.

[scombroid]

@The Austrian thanks for the tip, I think I'll contact Daiwa directly as suggested and see what they advise