I have an H2O Xpress reel that I noticed wasn't moving the spool up and down. Figured out the little peg on the oscillating gear broke off. Is this worth trying to get a replacement gear? Its about a $60 reel so not super expensive but I'm disappointed that I can use it now. I haven't been able to even find the gear for this brand. Only ones from Shimano. Any chance they're universal size?

Good luck locating that gear. Probably have to find out who made the reel for Academy or look on the schematic that came with it. That may be able to tell you where to locate one.

You probably won't find a gear for that. There is a reason those reels are so cheap.
I'd spend a little bit more to get a good named brand reel that will last longer and have more available parts.

buy a shimano.

Take it back to Academy and deal with a manager in the fishing department. Be nice and tell him how much you like the reel. They usually have very good customer service.

Thanks for the suggestions!

It always costs more to buy cheap stuff.