Just finished my first rod a 13' heaver. I put three coats of TM light build for my finish. Now I guess I'm wondering how long should I wait before taking it out and casting it? Im excited to go try it out but not at the expense of having to repair it right off the bat lol... Put the last coat on the first guide about 18 hours ago. It isn't tacky but feels softer than the guides on the tip section that I finished about 5 days ago.

MINIMUM 24 hours and better 48 for that many layers

Really that soon? Had no idea... Was thinking at least a week.

I'm thinking a week from the last application too. I don't use TM, but most epoxy finishes are similar, and will look and feel cured in 24 to 48 hours, but the cure is not complete for several more days.

48 hours, but I prefer 2 weeks.

Remember, this is a rod, if it is for you that you will own for years. Why be in such a hurry to use it. Use one of your other rods from your rod rack until the time goes by to get a really hard finish.

Enjoy the fruit of your labors for years to come.

Be safe

TM lite? 24 hours. I have it timed so I can get it to customer as soon as possible.........................

Speaking in general terms, without regard to shop temperature, etc., (which will play a large role) you are generally safe from most ills in about 3 days.

If you needed to get it on the water in 24, you'd want to keep the rod in a very warm place - 90F at least, for those 24 hours. You can apply the epoxy in a room at a lower temperature to facilitate pot life, but once the epoxy has begun to set, move it to a much warmer location.

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the longer the better.I let mine sit at least a week before using them.

Thanks everyone for the info. Going on vacation next week so I'll just let it sit till then. Better safe than sorry I put a lot of time in on so waiting another week isn't really a big deal.....

Sorry for the double post



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/06/2016 08:11AM by Michael Sing.

Thanks everyone for the info. Going on vacation next week so I'll just let it sit till then. Better safe than sorry I put a lot of time in on so waiting another week isn't really a big deal