Hey guys, I just got a Shimano Calcutta 400B
today to go on a "light" 20# rig.
7.5' Team Allstar IM10 graphite. the reel is spooled w/ a 20# spectra/17# big game split for a
total of 390 yards. Upon testing this evening, I
can't get more than 35-40 yards on a cast, & I'm talking everything I've got! This dude has got the Variable Brake system, but it doesn't tell which positions increase or decrease weight offset. I usually take both the weight rings off my ABU 4600's for best distance, but this thing has 6 weights for obviously more finite adjustment
FYI- I'm a "dumb-thumb" caster and my friction brake is set for 1.5oz lure weight.
SOMEBODY ENLIGHTEN ME QUICK!
I leave for Baja next friday
-B

http://www.texasfishingforum.com/.ubb/ultimatebb.php?ubb=get_topic;f=22;t=000707

If I did that right you can look at this forum even tho it is for a curado they are very similiar. You can try and lighten on the spool brake more. If this reel as a level wind and you are trying to surf fishing that will also slow you casting.
How does the spool spin if you put it in casting mode and just spin it with you thumb.
When I buy a new reel the first thing I do is take it apart and take the heavy grease, replace it with oil, but I keep my reels very well maintained. If you take it apart be very careful for the springs, them babies fly when they come out.
It sounds to me something is no tight?
If not machined correctly the spool may be rubbing the frame or maybe a bad bearing. These two are rare but I have seen them usually there is a ding on the edge of the spool from mishandling. Let me know if this helps or you figure out what it is. I have been taking apart Shimano and penns for the last 20 years. I know them pretty well.

Which position on the brake counterweights
allows for more inertia? out or in? The manual tells how it works but not how it adjusts.
I will put a lighter lube on the rotating parts & bearings & see if that works. there are no interference problems.that link answers everything

thanks,fishaholic!
-B

SWEET! Works Great! switched lube to a light oil
and went to 3 in 3 out combination and instantly got 50 yards w/ half the effort. after all the subsequent cranking (ughhh!) warmed the reel up, I re-adjusted the friction brake and am now "dumb-thumbing" 55-60 yard casts! thanks!!!
-B

no problem, let me know if I can help with anything else!!
Remember to get the best results if you pull one out make sure you do the same to the opposite side.