Abu Black Max is probably around $80 out the door. Felt like a pretty decent reel even compared to reels twice the price.
That's the reel I have. The reel is actually pretty decent, I like it quite a bit. The gear was worn down due to my error, I forced it when something got jammed in the level winder. It still works, just not sure for how much longer or if it will slip.
It just seems kind of wasteful to just get another reel when the problem is just a tiny tiny piece of plastic. All other gears are brass but for this one piece. Guess it's just the way things are these days, you're encouraged to replace rather than repair.
I emailed Abu Garcia. They want $10 shipping in for the part. I got the reel and a 9' MH rod for $70 all in. When I took it apart, the tolerances didn't look as tight as I'd expected, hence wondering if the part is pretty generic.
Thanks though. I figure I'll use it for now and hope for the best. At least I know how to take apart my reel now and know better than to spaz out when frustrated with my reel.