hello all, i have not posted a question in many years because i always found answers i needed. i am building 7 float rods at the same time, usually i will be building 1 or 2 at a time. what i would like to do is wrap all the rod before i apply the epoxy, because i do not have room to setup to wrap and epoxy as i build. i apply two coats of epoxy per rod, therefore it would take my about two weeks before i get to the last rod. my concern is will the wraps lose tension by the time i get to the last rod. using ncp thread, can i apply cp to help to maintain the thread tension. will applying cp to ncp thread affect the epoxy. any suggestions would be helpful. tight lines and keep up the great work.

regards kelly

Kelly

Once the guides are wrapped they should stay intact unless disturbed by rough handling.

If you store the rods in a dry, dust free place and keep handling to a minimum, you will have no problem.

I would consider placing the rods in a tube or plastic sleeve to protect them from contamination or occasional handling.

Before you get ready to apply the finish, inspect the wraps for dust or damage from storage.

Have fun

John

p.s.
IN addition to John's comments.
Always triple check the guide alignment on a rod - just before applying finish.

Lets just say - it seems that sometimes guides get "work shop twisting syndrome."

I purchae a roll of 3 inch wide plastic tubing that lasts a very long time. In addition, pick up an impulse sealer. That way, just before shipping and or delivering, insert the rod, with any paper work wrapped around the rod into the plastic tube and you will be able to deliver a dust free rod to your user.

I don’t think loosening will be a great factor, but thread choice could help. Nylon tends to stretch more than polyester. John made a great point about contamination in storage. Silicon is destructive to rod finish and can become aerosolized from the use of various products.

The thread will not lose tension. If you put the rods in a quiet room and do not disturb them there is little chance that anything will be upset prior to finishing them. I know some guys will wrap the rods with saran wrap if they will not be applying finish for several days or weeks.

If you are going to apply CP, I would not do it until a day or two prior to finishing. That way, if anything has found its way onto the wraps the CP will seal it from the epoxy.

............

thank you all for you help very helpful, good point to place the rods in a bag to protect it from dust. we have a cat so stray cat hair are always an issue.

Kelly,
U line is a great source for purchasing clear plastic tubing on a roll.
Then, pick up a used impulse sealer to ceal the open ends of the tube after placing a rod in the tubing. (essentially a plastic open bag on a roll)

[www.uline.com]

On facebook market place there are a bunch of used impulse sealers starting at $10 on up.

Best wishes