I just picked up a new Vanford 2500. It's my first new reel in probably 15 years and I'm not sure if I've just built up my expectations too high or if there's actually something wrong. Besides not being as quiet as I'd like, my main concern is the play in the handle. Or more accurately, in the opinion gear it screws into. There's a little play left to right (in n out of the reel) and backward/forward reeling play.

 

Is this normal, or could it lead to bigger problems down the road? Just curious if other Vanford owners have this same issue.

Certainly haven't noticed this in the two I own. My Vanfords lived up to my high expectations and I will be purchasing another.

 

I would contact Shimano or your retailer regarding return/exchange due to your concerns.

Made me check - I do have main gear side-play in small-frame Stradic, but not in small-frame Vanquish or med-frame Twin Power.  If you want a guess, the difference is Malaysia assy line vs. Japan-bench parts-matching.  

Hasn't been a long-term issue with hard-fished Stradic, still going strong (5 years).  

If you think about it, you always thrust inward when you wind, never pull outward (can't), so gear contact will always be total.  

 

I noticed initial scratchy wind in my Twin Power that went away with use - I suspect it was fit-up in the labyrinth seals, which ran-in smooth.  

I bought Vanford 2500 about 3 years ago and just checked it for any handle play it is solid no movement and very smooth operation.

I suggest you return the new reel for a replacement.

Tom

14 minutes ago, WRB said:

I bought Vanford 2500 about 3 years ago and just checked it for any handle play it is solid no movement and very smooth operation.

I suggest you return the new reel for a replacement.

Tom

Thanks everyone, I actually just got back from taking it back. I had them open another box to see if it had the same issue. It wasn't as bad but still noticable. So I decide to wait for the next batch to come around since I don't need it right away. 

Ive got two 2500's and three 2000's and none of them are showing the signs you are seeing. I would suggest sending back for a new one.