GonetoSeed

[Ivan]

My question for you seed has to do with hand turning blanks. My motor has gone out on me I would like to know if hand turning is an alternative. I've have two rods that need to be finished.
Some thirty or so years ago I used to hand turn my surf rods with varing success.
I am using Flexcoat High build this time around. I was using varnish back then. Any tips or suggestions.

Ivan

[GonetoSeed]

I think it is. In fact, I've started hand turning all my rods until basically set (won't sag)and only use my motor for babysitting while it continues curing (most times over night). I've found that turning by hand and progressively slowing the rotation has helped my overall finish. It seems to self-level better and I can pay attention to any bubbles that come up out of the thread or tunnel and take care of them.

The issue is patience. It takes a while and the later rotations are every 20 minutes or so. I keep the excess finish on the foil and test it to see if it has dried enough that I don't have to worry about sagging. I usually fill in the time tying flies, catching up on old FF mags or generally dreaming about/planning the first trip with the rod. How long depends on the temperature and humidity.

Have you thought of picking up an old rotessiere motor and fashioning a chuck. For example, a friend picked one up at Home Depot that had been returned with a grill for $5. It's working great.

[Ivan]

Thanks GTS. That helps. As for the rotesserie; it is currently an option. I started hitting the thrift shops. Will stop by Home Depot, Lowes and wally world tommrrow.