Rodbuilders Epoxy Question

[C-Man]

Guys,

I just recently finished removing all of the cork out of one of my All Star flipping sticks; I removed the foregrip and installed a split rear grip (with the corresponding winding checks). Here are my questions:

1) How do you create the epoxy "ramp" between the winding check and the cork? I have read that some people use 5 minute epoxy, any specific brand or would the stuff that they sell at the hardware store work. Any specific brand better than others.

2) What do you guys recommend to use when mixing epoxy and or thread finish, pumps or syringes? Where is a good place to get these supplies?

3) I will be using thread in the area between the two split grip corks in order to make it a clean finish. I will be using "D" size thread, can I mix "D" size thread (black) with a gold or silver accent with "A" size thread, or should I keep them all the same size?

4) What size thread do you recommend to use on the hook keeper? I will be using a hook keeper similar to the Kisler rods. I was planning on using "D" size.

Thanks...

[Luke]

1--for the Epoxy by the winding check and the cork i just brush on the Epoxy like normal it will dry smooth on the turner
2--i use a syrenge when i mix my Epoxy but i dont know if it matters one way or the other
3--i dont think i would mix the sixes of thread such as A and D the D is thicker and it might show really bad when it is covered with epoxy it also might get a step where the 2 sizes meet
4--i use size A thread for everything on a Bass type rods if i make a rod that is for heavier fish such as Catfish or Musky then i will use D on the Guides and all

[pbtriton]

C-Man,

I'm not really sure what you mean by " creating the ramp between the cork and winding check ", but what I think you mean is this.
The cork should have been sanded down prior to installation to the blank, that is what creates your ramp.

For epoxing the winding check to the cork, 5 minute epoxy will work fine, just work quickly. Take a toothpick or popsickle stick a smear the epoxy to the back of the winding check, and push up on the cork with your thumb. Clean any extra off with alcohol.

2. buy a kit of "flexcoat" high build or " U-40 Dura Gloss Supreme ". The kits will come with 2 parts of epoxy and cups to mix it in, along with stirring sticks. Follow the directions exactly .
It does not matter weather they are pumps or syringes......what matters is that you mix it in exact parts.....the cups provided in the kits will have marks on them for this.

3. If you are going to wrap the section between the split grip.....use size A thread only......size D is for larger type rods. Unless you need extra weight in this area to balance the rod (doubtful), I would not wrap this area. Thread will add weight to the blank and this kind of defeats the purpose of what you've done, (create a split grip reduces weight and makes rod more sensitive).
I would wrap next to the upper and lower winding checks for 3/8" or so, and let it go at that.

4. use all size A thread on all wraps on the rod.

some places you might want to check out are:
http://www.anglersworkshop.com/
and
http://www.anglersworkshop.com/

they will have the epoxy finish you will need.
You are also going to need a dryer to turn the rod while the finish cures and levels out.

good luck, rod building is a rewarding craft.....takes lots of practice.

[TeamFATBOY]

Here's a link that I've used that was pretty good for making a split grip,
http://www.georgescustomrods.c...p.htm