This is my first attempt to build a rod. i am working on my station and about how far should i be placing my thread/ tensioner from the rod blank? do i want my guide to lower then then blank or level? i assume too short and i am creating a problem but to far i will be asking for hang ups and problems with tension. any pointers would be great. i will post a picture of my rod stand tonight.

Cant wait for my first build, Blue Halo fiberglass, 3 weight 3 piece.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 01/18/2016 09:31PM by Tom Kirkman.

Corey,
A picture of the setup that I use:

[www.rodbuilding.org]


Basically, my thread tensioner is about 5 inches behind and about 4 inches above my rod.

I have used it with the thread below the rod, even with the rod and 10 inches above the rod. I have found that for myself the 5 back and 4 above works well for me.

I have my rod with the top of the rod rotating toward me. Thus, I have the thread behind the rod.

Be safe

I like it Roger! Did you find somewhere to buy the thread tensioner alone?

Thanks - Marc

Keep it simple - that's all I can handle!

Marc,
Here you go:

[www.mudhole.com]

It looks great have you ever tried to use a TENSION spring on your rig it helps when you stop an go back a little for what ever reason or just stop , it would be easy to do it make your wood shorter , say about 3 inches long an put the spring out the top of the wood with a tip top on it as I have a set up just like yours with my old hack saw blade as my spring with a tip top off the end,, you will be able to gage your tension by the bend of the spring . it is slick you should try it , if you want to get spring steel try it ? the local RC hobby shop 3/32 or 1/16 or smaller inch size push rod wirer , , drill a small hole in the top or use EYE lets in the back an put an take the wirer as to when you wrap your rods , PS if you try the hack saw blade cover the teeth or grind them off ,

William Sidney
AK

Comments deleted



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

Looks like my set up is total opposite to what is pictured. Which makes me think that it is just personal prefference. I rotate blank away from me clockwise. Thread carriage and tensioners positioned in front of set up under a blank. For tensioner I used metal 1/4" rod, paper clamps and springs,and for carriage assembly I used drawer slider. Nothing fancy.

Sergiy,
When I first started, the folks at the rod shop had a setup with the thread and tensioner behind the rod.

It took a while to get used to it, but after learning, I wouldn't want to do it any other way.

I like to have my rod relatively close to me. With the thread behind the rod and the wrapper bed, the thread is completely out of the way and is easy to work with.

It is all about how you learn. If it works for you, it is a good way to go.

Be safe

Comments deleted



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 09/20/2016 05:05PM by John E Powell.