Hello all. I have aquired a new project rod, its a Scot G series rod, a G 85-5. Its my understanding that this is an old graphite rod and is of moderate action (which I prefer). This factory built rod has the toughest epoxy resin on the windings that I have yet to deal with, its super hard and very tough to remove.

I am hoping to save the original Scott script on the rod, even though it is faded somewhat. The epoxy is over top of the logo, no problem. I am leaving it there, but I am cleaning up the blank using 1000 grit sand paper and water. Slowly, it is coming along.

Naturally, some of the ridges of this factory un-sanded blank are getting slightly rounded, but I dont mind. I am being careful to keep them visible, I want the rod to at least look a little bit as it was when new.

So, I am asking... can I use a rod finish right over the epoxy and blank together, or do I have to remove all of the epoxy to do this?
Do you think it would be ok to use spar varnish instead of rod finish?

I have only used the spar varnish on my glass rods, I have been very pleased with the look and feel of the finish. Can I get away with this or not? Thanks

Jesse

You have many options here. Generally epoxy on guide wraps can be removed, provided you remove the wraps as well. Slice the finish and thread on top of the guide foot and simply peel everything off. Rewrap and refinish.

Now if you're not wanting to remove the guide wraps the chance of getting the epoxy off is slim. But yes, you can clean what's there, scuff lightly with Scotchbrite, and refinish with fresh epoxy.

Spar varnish is fine, but I'd look for something that is made specifically for outdoor use, gloss finish. Some type of urethane wood or boat finish.

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

The finish on the guides is Probably Yellowed ??? Your choice but clean thread and finish will make it look a lot better

Bill - willierods.com

I totally stripped the rod, some of the threads and underlying epoxy were extremely hard to remove.

The rod has been used hard, it has some wear, so, I want to refinish the blank. The rod needs to be refinished completely, it is now just a blank. A beat up blank. Soooo...... rod finish (I dont have a fast turner to apply this and keep the rod moving) or, do I just use spar varnish?

I have been very pleased with the spar varnish on my glass rods, I have not used it on graphite. What do you recommend?