I used a Quantum Iron IR3 Reel for trolling for Trout for at least 10 Years and it never let me down. About 6 Years ago I purchased Quantum Controller CN20LC that sat in my Fishing Bag all that time without being used. The plan was that if had a problem with the IR3 I would have a new reel to replace it with. Last fall I installed the new reel and it lasted for about 4 hours of trolling and I landed a 5 lb. Trout. While reeling in my second Trout which was smaller the reel failed and I had to bring the fish in by hand.When I took it into a Reel and Rod repair shop in town, the owner showed me a little fiber type washer had broken and that caused the reel tension to not work.
I contacted Quantum and they told me that if I shipped it to them, they would repair it and I would have to pay for the repairs. I was not very impressed to say the least.. Four hours of fishing out of a $100 dollar or better reel and that was the brush off that I received from Quantum. I am now using a Daiwa and I have my old IR3 for backup.