Tips on Rod Wrapping
- from Start to Finish Fly Rod
Building
by Ryan Seiders and Dan Smith
To protect your rod wraps, you will need
a clear, durable protective finish. The best finishes are two
part epoxies such as Flex Coat High Build
or Flex Coat Lite Rod Wrapping Finish which remain flexible
and protect the wraps throughout the life of the fly rod. Do
not confuse "rod wrapping finish" with "rod builders
glue", as they perform totally different functions.
NOTE: Flex Coat Lite has lower viscosity
than Flex Coat High Build Finish. This formulation was designed
for thinner coats. However, a thin coat can be achieved with
both finishes (See Helpful Tip #12). More
on FLEX COAT'S Rod Wrapping Finish.
It is helpful to rotate
the rod on a small (6-200 RPM) gear motor while applying
the finish. Most rod builders find it easier to apply finish
at higher RPM.
In addition, it is best to dry the rod
by continuously rotating it on a small gear motor. However, for
a level finish, the gear motor should not exceed 30RPM.
If you do not have a small gear motor,
the rod can be rotated 1/2 turns by hand as needed to prevent
sagging of the finish. As the finish begins to cure, the rod
will require less frequent rotation.
1. Before beginning, sight down the rod
to make sure the guides are properly aligned. Minor adjustments
can be made prior to applying finish.
2. Before mixing, be certain the Flex
Coat A and B resins are at least above 75. If they are not, heat
them by methods described in Helpful Tip #1.
3. Measure
equal portions of resin (part A) and hardener (part B). Mix
at least 2 cc of each part using a syringe or 10 cc of each part
if using a measuring cup.
4. Combine the two parts in a mixing cup
or similar container.
5. Mix the finish thoroughly with a non-porous
stirrer. The mixture will initially appear marbled, then will
become cloudy. As you continue mixing, the finish will begin
to clear with visible marbled streaks. It is essential that you
continue mixing until all marbled streaks have disappeared.
6. While rotating the rod, use a small
brush to apply the Flex Coat to the
wraps. Extend the finish slightly over the end of the wrap to
completely protect it. After applying finish to all the wraps,
inspect each wrap individually and apply or remove finish as
needed to achieve an even, level finish.
7. Depending on the thickness of the finish
and the room temperature, the rod should be rotated from 1 1/2
to 2 1/2 hours. Flex Coat Finish will dry to the touch in
approximately 6 hours. Avoid contact with the finished wraps
for 24 hours. You may wish to apply a thin second coat of finish
at this time. This coat must cover the entire first coat to ensure
a uniform finish.
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