My 4.5 cents. I broke the tip on my Orvis Trident last summer. Emailed Orvis, they said $25, 6 weeks, we'll fix it. Next day an email, would I like to upgrade to a Helios for 1/2 price while I waited. Being not having just fallen off the turnip truck, $25 vs $350, I'll wait thanks. 6 weeks later, a NEW Helios 5 wt. Whooa!! For $25!! Next week, my check for $25 comes back! Double Whoooa! I guess when companies change hands things change a lot the old ways are lost or forgotten or the new price of doing business. I also had a very nice experience with Ross on some spare spools. Carp, I feel for you. You figure you'll get the same service you have for years. In my experience only Beans and Orvis have stayed the course. Keep the stakes, fish em and be glad you have enjoyed them. And then there are lots of nice rods out there for replacement as needed.
Good luck.
Mike