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Change out leadcore when it is degraded to the point that it will not do what you want it to do. There is no rule of thumb; it all depends on how much usage, exposure to UVs and abrasion etc.

A method to check out leadcore
1. Check the line for ware, especially at the knots. Wind the leadcore onto a spare reel and exam it while winding.
2. Perform a pull test to determine the breaking strength. Wrap the line on a mandrel and covering it with cloth prior to securing into a vise, making sure that the line is not stressed by the vise jaws. Wrap the other end around an appropriate fish scale; use a cloth if the scale’s hook is not round.

For example, using 18 lb leadcore with a 6 lb test leader then a reasonable minimum breaking strength might be 12 lb.
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Gus