I started out using Flexcoat Rod bulders epoxy for gluing rings and attaching handles and seats. I then made a change to the U40 stuff that is about the consistency of vaseline. As a result I haven't used the Flexcoat for several months. I didn't think that it would matter because I thought the stuff had a ridiculously long shelf life. When I used it yesterday the clear one of the two parts had changed. The clear had become partially crystallized or something. Then when it was all set up it was more brittel than usual. It hasn't been in the cold or extreme heat or in direct sunlight and I have had it for less than two years so I was just wondering if anybody knows why this happened, if it has happened to anybody else, and if so if anyone has found a way to keep it from happening.

Oh ya, my first clue that something was wrong was when the syringe I use on the clear part was stuck closed and when I finally broke it free the tip had a solid piece of the epoxy part in it even though only one part had come into contact with that syringe. There was solid crystal pieces along the inside of the syringe as well.

Thanks
James

This is normal for most all epoxies. The resin tends to crystalize when exposed to cool temperatures or over long periods of time.

Simply loosen the cap on the bottle and zap it the resin in the microwave oven for perhaps 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat if necessary. Allow the resin to cool before using.

You should find this restores it to like new condition.

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I would have never thought to try that. Thank you, I was going to throw it out, and I can't afford to be throwing things out. Thanks again, you are always a life saver.
James

I have had this problem as of late (live in Ohio where it has been COLD) I have been putting my finish and epoxy in some warm water 30 min prior to using and have not had a problem since.