I'm very pleased to hear that Tri-Cast have extraordinary after sales service. That is an example to follow for all tackle manufacturers.
Several years ago, I bought a TriCast John Allerton Premier Match 15 ft. I thought I bought a slim and light float rod, perfect for trotting a stick float for roach. Not so. It's a brutal piece of kit, well suited for match fishing commercials for carp. I used it twice. That's my fault. I could have done my homework, and gone for different rod.
But the finish of the rod, and the quality of the sleeve was not impressive. The one thing that was impressive, was the price. So, I will still route for Drennan.