I got a 2500 Stradic FM in the mail today and it is scratchy/loud when free reeling. My other FM is the same way and I’ve had 2 Vanfords that were like that but not as bad. Both of my Tatulas and a Sustain FJ I used to own didn’t have this issue. Is this common in the Stradic/Vanford reels? How have ya’ll quieted them down? They are still smooth and I’m sure when in use it won’t really matter but still. Thanks

Every Shimano reel i own makes noise, even my Ultegra i just got.

 

All of my Daiwas are quiet, whats funny is that they are the Revros, which is the cheap one.

 

If its smooth and feels good keep it and fish it till you forget about it, if not maybe send it off if it really gets on your nerves, or try adding some oil or grease. Since a lot of reels today come with too much or too little.

I got a JDM 23 Stradic 3000XG back in October......incredibly smooth and quiet.

 

 

My Twin Power began that way, and now it's the smoothest and quietest reel I own - a total jewel from finesse to beast.  

I think it most likely has to do with the X-protect labyrinth seals wearing in.  

@PBBrandon

How did I quiet it?  I went fishing.  

Yes, it was annoying at first.  I though it was related to rotor/spool.  I removed the spool, it did the exact thing with no spool.  That's the labyrinth seal that keeps salt water out of the rotor bearing and complex (Stella) A/R roller bearing.  The seal is made to move water outward - away from those bearings.  

I'm glad it's there - Revros doesn't have one.