Been asked to re varnish a fibre glass rod.
can I dilute Bullards CPX or should I just apply it straight from the bottle?

Phillip,
Use Perma gloss.

However, if you use perma gloss, test in a small spot before using it to be sure that the finish does not destroy the current finish on the rod.

phillip,
I have not used Bullard CPXtra so cannot offer advice. But I have used, and will continue to use, U40 PermaGloss which is probably the industry standard blank finish. If desired, a second coat of PG can be applied in 1-2 hours WITHOUT SANDING whereas the CPXtra requires 24 hours and NEEDS TO BE SANDED; that alone queers the use of CPXtra for me! I may be incorrect, but I think CPXtra, as the name implies, was originally intended as a Color Preserver while PG was formulated as a blank finish (and it works very well as a minimal thread finish as well).
From your description, you will be “re varnishing” the blank, not simply re-coating it = very good idea. Use a razor blade held 90* to the surface and length of the blank to scrape the existing finish off; it will chip / flake / pop off the blank quite easily but WEAR EYE PROTECTION!!! If required, LIGHTLY scuff the blank with 400-600 grit sandpaper to blend any marks in the surface. Apply the PG with a fine-cell foam cosmetic pad.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Straight from the bottle.

Philip - Both CPXtra and PG cannot be diluted. Both are very thin (like water) to start with and if what you have is thick, your bottle is likely unusable as the curing process has begun and cannot be reversed. A new bottle of either would be the best route to ensure a good, clean result.

Mark - While you are correct that CPXtra was probably originally developed as a possible color preserver, it is also a moisture curing urethane product very similar to PG. Sanding before a second coat is a suggestion & not a requirement. The preparation of the blank before application (& method of application) will determine if sanding is necessary. With proper preparation, a one coat application (or a second coat without sanding between coats) is possible and common.

Thanks, VooDoo.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.