I build 90% bass rods; but a very good friend has asked me to replace the guides on 4 ocean rods for him. My question is regarding the epoxying of the under wraps. Is it recommended that epoxied be applied to the under wraps before wrapping on the replacement guides? Or, wait and apply epoxy after the replacement guides have been installed? I am wondering about the penetration of epoxy through the underwraps. I am using Threadmaster epoxy, if that matters.

Your opinions are appreciated.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

Either way will work. If you work quickly and get the finish on the wraps while it's still very liquid, it will make its way to the under wraps just fine. Some builders will epoxy the under wraps, let that set/cure for a few days and then overwrap and finish the top wrap. It's an extra step that isn't absolutely necessary, but may provide just a tad more strength, if such a thing is really needed. I suspect the rod you have now was finished in one step by the manufacturer.

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One reason to epoxy the underwrap first is it makes it easier to do a good looking over wrap, due to easier thread packing.
Norm

Tom & Norman,

Thank you for your replies. The rods are 7' casting and spinning rods rated for 30 to 60 lb test. I've done several ocean rods in the past with under wraps and did not epoxy the under wraps first. I found the over wraps to be a little more difficult without epoxy on the under wraps. I don't think strength is an issue just easy of warping the over wraps.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

I would suggest using "A" thread for the underwrap and "D" over. That will help keep the overwrap from pulling down into the thread below. Putting on a coat of finish before overwrapping is the best way for two reasons, 1. it makes it easier to over wrap and 2. it expels the air from the underwrap keeping the bubbles to a minimum in your finish coats.