What effect does reel spool size have on spacing for the butt guide? I have a set on hand for my next build, and am thinking I want to build for a 30 size Quantum Energy PT reel. This is the reel from my collection with the largest spool diameter.

Spool diameter plays a role as does line size and type. Smaller spools and/or smaller-limper line can generally stand having the butt guide a little closer, while larger spools and/or larger-stiff line require the butt guide be a little farther out.

The Quantum 30 isn't extremely large. I'd start with the spacing provided with the MIcroWave guide set and cast it a bit. Then move the guide in two inches, cast a few more times, then push it out a couple beyond where you started and try that. If one seems better than another, go with it. You may find, however, that the recommended spacing works very well.

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Thanks for the super fast response.

We have found that the provided spacing works very well for size 1000-4000 reels. Please by all means do not be afraid to play with stripper spacing by an inch or so. We would love to hear your feedback as well. Thanks.

_______________________________
God Bless, Don Morse

800-516-1750 ext. 1207 / don@americantackle.us

Rod Building..... It's What We Do.

Don @ American Tackle Wrote:
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> We have found that the provided spacing works very
> well for size 1000-4000 reels. Please by all means
> do not be afraid to play with stripper spacing by
> an inch or so. We would love to hear your feedback
> as well. Thanks.


This is what I did with the first Microwave rod I built: start with the recommendations, and do copious amounts of test casting, moving the guides around, to see what works best. You don't want to get lost in Theory: always let what you see in front of you dictate how to build the best rod.

And now the guy wants another one from me. I'm really sold on the benefits of these guides.

That's great news Chris.... we hear stories like that everyday.

_______________________________
God Bless, Don Morse

800-516-1750 ext. 1207 / don@americantackle.us

Rod Building..... It's What We Do.

I am also looking to start a rod. I have not built a rod in 30 years. Prior to this layoff I built maybe 20 total. I am not concerned about gearing up for building. I have some things I can use to spin it or I may just do this one by hand. My question is about spacing. I don't want to hijack this thread in any way so please tell me if I should start another thread-this is my first post BTW.
In speaking with a guy that has done a few rods with the micro guide he tells me they are super tiny which makes sense. How do people mount thse tiny guides for testing? I will use a 200 series reel but this isn't very helpful because of the variation in the height AND the spool sizes change from manufacturer to manufacturer. I am also concerned about getting the first 2-3 guides (or just the stripper???) correct and have heard that the spool diameter and spacing of the guides will "limit" the rod to a certain size reel. Is this a hard fast rule?
Again please let me know if it is OK to put this question along with this thread or tell me to start another.
Thanks

Howard,
Folks use masking tape, elastic thread, rubber bands, and my favorite is the use of small elastic bands used for dental work. You can obtain tiny bands in diameters down to .1 in or so. Slide enough bands on the rod to take care of any current or future testing needs. Slip the guide of choice under the band, and do your line tests. As you wrap, and get the guide held in place, use a sharp pair of nippers to cut the band so that you can finish the wrap.

If you space the first or stripper guide as far as needed for the largest size reel planned to be used on the rod, you can always use a smaller reel with the same setup. Normally an initial spacing of 20 inches from the face of the reel is close to a good starting point for the Microwave guide. Carry on from that point.

Be safe