Well, I was looking over the first spiral wrapped rod I did and noticed that with a couple of the guides (low fly guides), the epoxy has cracked/separated away from the rear of the guide by the foot tunnel. Is this a sign of too much epoxy, or using the rod before the epoxy is fully cured?? The epoxy is intact, but separated from the back of the guide cleanly. The guides are pretty flexy, so maybe they flexed and broke away from the epoxy? I cant remember how long the time was from when I epoxied the guides to when I first fished with it, so it may not have been fully cured. Any other thoughts?

Did you use a Forhan to lock and block the fly guide? There are four different materials at that point - blank, guide frame, finish layer and thread. When the blank is loaded or stressed all will have a different resistance to movement and stress levels. It is best to keep the finish thickness in that area to a minimum. The presence of any thread, the Forhan, will minimize any movement and cracking.

Russ I, 2, Tree, Fo !! & N Yo Cas Prubably 5 (CP)



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 07/15/2008 10:58AM by Bill Stevens.

Yeah, I used the Forhan lock wraps. I will keep the finish lower in that area. The finish was climbing up the back of the guide towards the ring, and thats where it separated from the rings, so it looks like too much epoxy was used!

Epoxy won't stick to the guide leg very well. It is normal for it to break away from the metal frame in that area.

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Hey, Bill, is it four or three?

Uncle Russ
Calico Creek Rods

Tim, even if you use less epoxy - capillary action will take the epoxy up the back side. Use a thin metal spatula and keep wiping away the excess ( about every 10 minutes ) until there is no longer any build up ( usually no longer than 1 hour).

When my rod is on the dryer I use a piece of thread to wick away excess finish. Simply use it like you were flossing your teeth just behind the eye. You may have to repeat if neccessary until no more finish crawls up the back of your eye.

Thanks for the great tips!!!