I am in the process of ordering guides for a spinning rod I am building. The blank calls for a size 4 tube on the tip, however, a size four tube seems to be rather snug and will not leave any space for the adhesive. Should I consider moving up one size to a size 4.5 tube to allow for the adhesive or stick with the recommended tube size? Thanks in advance for your recommendations..

Jim Smith

I would use the recomended size, scuff the tip of the rod for adheasion, load epoxy inside the tip top, place it on and wipe off excess.

I watched flex coat's dvd and they did recommend scuffing the tip to get good adhesion. So based on that and Duane's advice I'd scuff that tip and see how it fits then.

Scuffing the tip is not meant to change the size. Scuffing should be done on any surfaces that are going to be adhered together. It's purpose is to provide a "water break free surface" (see library above) If you are taking material off of the tip you are asking for trouble. Actually, you want a tight fit. As long as the surfaces are wet with the adhesive you will get a good bond.



Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Mike is correct. All you need is a very thin amount of adhesive on a properly prepared (water break free surface) to achieve a good bond.

Jim, one other thing you might consider when ordering TT's is to order one size above and one below the specified tip size. This accomplishes two things. First, you are assured a correct fit and second, you are building an inventory of various TT's to be used later on.

Regards......Doug@
TCRds

on several blanks that i have ordered the finish has a build up on the tip which makes it thicker and is extreme tight fit for the tip top
check this and if that is the cade just take a razor blade and gently scrape the finish off a little ata time until the top fits like it is suppose to
just be careful not to scratch the blank

david williams

Order a size bigger, ALWAYS. Especially if you order 1's & 2's at a time & do not want or need an inventory of tip tops. WHEN the blank comes with a larger size than in teh catalouge (this is common thoughout the industry) - you're tip top will fit. If you want you can build up teh blank with a small bit of finish and you'r tip will fit. On larger blanks, build up with thread.

I also do not know what you guys are using for tip top adhesive, but hot melt glue for arrowheads is the best stuff, bar none. Stays glued in teh heat, doesn't crack in teh cold - perfect.