Drop of oil on bearings... I had a 51e had a dry bearing... Man it was real bad... Then it would quit making noise ..oiled it, and boom, no problem no more!

when I buy a new reel, I ride it like I stole for a couple of days. That will prove that there are no defects from the factory. Then i tear it down, clean and properly lube it to my specs. Never had a problem doing it this way.

Pretty well says it!

Drop of oil on bearings... I had a 51e had a dry bearing... Man it was real bad... Then it would quit making noise ..oiled it, and boom, no problem no more!

 

Was that a brand new reel came dry or was that a used? I have never heard of shimano came dry from factory...

Yes Sir.... It was brand new... The 50/51e's are great little reels... Just a fluke I guess!

I would return it or exchange it. In a few stores, I have noticed the shimanos were that way.(floor models) I thought it was odd cause I heard such good stuff about shimanos. Went to cabelas and their citica was nice and smooth. Dont be afraid to take the next reel out of the box and check it real good before you leave the store. When I was in the same store you got yours I asked the clerk why they were that way he said he didnt know. He didnt seem too interested in selling me anything. I like the store but dont like my stores service.

I usually break it in for awhile before I clean/relube.  Like others have stated, I want to ensure everything is in working order before I open the reel up. 

I cut myself and feed it my blood. Must become one with the reel

I would return it or exchange it. In a few stores, I have noticed the shimanos were that way.(floor models)

 

 I don't think a floor model should be different than any other reel, it comes out of a box too.  From my observation most people turn the crank and check the drag on floor models, I don't see any excessive wear and tear to them, maybe less than actually fishing with them.  I'd have no qualms buying a floor model if it felt good and they gave me a discount, still has warranty.

The one thing I always do with a new reel before fishing with it is put line on it. You wouldn't believe the difference it makes.

Hootie

I put line on it, then put the reel on a rod, then tie a lure to the line

I put line on it, then put the reel on a rod, then tie a lure to the line

I think you missed a step.......Wouldn't it be easier to put the line thru those little circle things on the rod before tying on? Seems like it would be tough to get the lure thru them all.