Hey all, I've built a few rods using rod varnish on the threads, and I've done fine without having any sort of rod turner. I've just used light coats and rotated the rod frequently as it was drying. I'm going to do my first build using epoxy, like a normal person. After watching videos, I'm a little concerned that my technique might not fare so well with epoxy. Is it practical to coat threads with epoxy while turning the rod by hand, and not result in lumps where the epoxy ran?

Thanks!

Scott, depending on temp., it takes around 2 hrs for epoxy to set up so it won't run. Rotating the rod every 10-15 mins for that two hours will give you an even finish.

As for applying it while hand rotating, it certainly can be done, however I much rather prefer applying my epoxy while it is rotating at 20+ rpm: this gives you the nice clean edges.

Yes, most people start out applying finish by hand. You will need to block out a 4 hour or so window that you can be near the rod. once the finish is on you will need to turn the rod 180degrees every 5 minutes or so for about a 1/2 hour then you can go to 10 min interval for awhile eventually you will be able to work out to a 20 min or so interval. Keep the container of unapplied epoxy near and you can check it as it sets up and this will give you an idea of how long you can wait before rotating the rod. Usually it takes about 4 hours or so for the epoxy to cure to the point it won't sag. Every batch is a little different. I now use a rotisserie motor that turns about 7 rpm to apply and cure. I applied by hand for several years before finding the motor.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 12/02/2012 11:14AM by Bruce Johnstone.

There is a great article on applying epoxy to wraps in this sites "Library" above.

You guys are awesome. Thanks for the answers and the tips.

make or buy a motorized dryer

less babysitting ya put a coat on check once or twice

Go out and have a nice dinner

Bill - willierods.com

Comments deleted



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 09/20/2016 05:17PM by John E Powell.

Not quite sure why you are anxious to change. Permagloss gives an outstanding finish, and is more conducive to hand wrapping and finishing due to the fast curing time. Many builders use it exclusively, even though it takes several coats, it is very clear and tough.

If you are looking to try a 2-part finish on your hand wrapper, I would pick one that is on the quicker curing side, like Flexcoat lite. Threadmaster is a great finish but the curing time is long and you will be turning for several hours before you can let it go. If you like the looks of the finish and want to make the switch to 2-part, I would second the recommendation of getting a drying motor, and practicing on the amount of finish to use. You'll have a learning curve moving to the new method.

Terry