I need some tips on applying flex coat on my rod. This is my second rod and the first time the epoxy came out really cloudy and bubbly. I also think I applied too much at one time. Do I heat up the epoxy to thin it out?

You can yes Put them in some hot water for about 20 min.

two thin coats

Bill - willierods.com

Thanks! will post pics when done

A cloudy appearance is usually from not stirring it long enough.

Bubbles are generally the result of over-zealous stirring and too much brushing.

Stir slowly for at least 4 minutes (the epoxy will cloud when mixed and will clear when blended). Try not to introduce bubbles. Pouring the epoxy out onto a piece of foil and allowing to set for just a brief minute will allow most bubbles to rise and leave the mix.

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A little trick of mine for getting rid of the bubbles: After you pour you mixed contents onto the foil simply exhale your hot breath over the epoxi once or twice. Vuala!! No more bubbles!!

Apart from mixing the stuff well but not over-zealously, I have used a cigarette lighter extensively on my last two rods with considerable success (I like to think so ;-))
This has effectively removed any remaining bubbles and resulted in a nice smooth transition from blank to finish. Besides if you put too much finish on a wrap and then heat it somewhat, the excess will drop down, although you still need to make sure it's evenly spread along the wrap.

hair dryer

JLS Custom Rods
Cassadaga, NY

hair dryer

JLS Custom Rods
Cassadaga, NY

My favourite piece of aparatus is my automatic epoxy mixer I purchased from Mudhole (the even had a 220 (240) volt model for me here in Oz). I have never had a unmixed batch since buying it 3 years ago. It is awesome., I mix 4cc, 5cc and 6cc batches of Threadmaster regularly for 5 minutes (timed on my iPhone) and the mix is perfect every time. I don't now why anyone would keep mixing by hand when these little beauties are available.

I agree with Chris. Since purchasing an epoxy mixer from Mudhole, the frustrations with epoxy mixes have been eliminated. Well worth the investment.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

I have to say that epoxy mixers make life more convenient for some folks, but it doesn't do a better job of mixing. I'd say there were a few rods built before motorized mixers became popular.

The mixers are great, I'm glad folks enjoy them, and I have absolutely no problems with their use. However, until I feel I do an inadequate job of stirring a cup by hand I don't thik I'll be converting over. Each to their own...variety is the spice of life.

I like my mixer but there still sometimes is micro bubbles I transfer mine to a foil dish hit it with the alcohol burner and seems to fox the issue with bubbles

Got my own tricks and I mix with a cup with no bubbles and no foil

Bill - willierods.com