I'm building an 8wt graphite rod and plan to install a Rec RFTS aluminum reel seat. In this situation, looking at the ID of the RFTS, I'm a bit concerned with how slick the machined aluminum surface is (glass like). I plan to install a urethane foam arbor and ream to fit blank. I am not an epoxy bonding expert. Should I lightly scuff the ID of the RFTS to enhance bond between shim and reel seat ID? My epoxy of choice in this situation would be Rod Bond (unless advised otherwise). As always, info appreciated.

Do this- [www.rodbuilding.org]

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Look at the surface preparation article in the library.

Thank you. I've got to remember to check the library!!!!!!!!! It's a newbie thing......

I would degrease the seat inside and outside with solvent DNA for example to rid the seat of any dirt,grease or oil.

Take a dowel with some scotch bright or fine emory (320) grit and lightly scuff the ID of the seat, dry wipe and your seat is ready for bonding..

The important thing is that the seat is clean and oil free before final assembly.

Any two part epoxy is sufficient, slow cure is preferable to allow time to position the seat and clean the residue before the epoxy sets.

Good luck



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 09/02/2020 11:16PM by John DeMartini.

Thanks John!

As suggested scuff the inside. Other thing I have started doing with the foam arbors is drilling holes in them. Just a line of holes at three or four points the length of the arbor. I typically do 3/32". May not make a difference but I feel more comfortable with points of continuous epoxy from blank through arbor to the seat, opposed to the very thin film you have once you slide the arbor and seat on. Rod bond is the way to go.

In terms of how most adhesives work - a thin glue line is stronger than a thick glue line. Epoxy doesn't have to be clamped for a super thin glue line and will do fine even with a little thickness to it, but it doesn't require a thick application to offer the intended strength. Parts should fit closely regardless.

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One way to easily scuff the ID of reel seats is to put a strip, about 1 x 4 inches, of scotch brite into the slot of a shotgun cleaning rod, then spin that with a drill driver inside the seat to scuff it.

Thanks for all the very helpful comments/info.

I highly recommend you read the link provided by Tony Kirkman. It is very informative, and understandable. Ot will teach you what you need to know.

Thanks, Tony, for the link.

Tight lines and frisky fish

RJF