Hello to all, I've been following this forum for a long time now and it's been a huge help to me in getting started rod building. My dad recently gave me an old Garcia Conolon 2553T 9 1/2ft Fast taper, medium action surf rod. It's in very good condition except the butt guide was accidently broken during his last move. I plan on replacing the guide and plan on displaying the rod as is. I was wondering what was used originally to seal the guide wraps, it doesn't look as though epoxy as we know it today was used on them. This rod was purchased in the early 1960's. Any info would be appreciated.

Older guys would know but I think rod varnish was used. I think Guberod made this stuff as many others I'm sure did. I would fix that rod and use it if it was me!!

To get the same look as the original, you can use 3 or 4 coats of exterior clear gloss urethane.

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Guys, thanks very much for the feedback. I have a guide and thread on order and will try to get it as close to original condition as possible. That rod really takes one back to the early days of surf fishing.

Don't be afriad to take this old surf rod fishing. You may be surprised as to how confortable a fishing tool it is. I fish my late Dad's old surf rod often. It brings back good memories.

I HAVE TWO TO RESTORE ALONG WITH THE REELS Larry

Ben,

Here is short vintage video you may like on Garcia Conolon:

[www.youtube.com]

I still have one of their fly rods, and I too would not hesitate to still use it today. I had it out in the yard last summer with the first line I ever had, a straight line no taper; how under the Heavens I ever learned to cast, let alone fish, with that line I'll never know.

Chuck