First post from someone trying to get started in rod building. I've seen tape arbors used a lot, and read about using fiberglass drywall tape as an arbor, and know that there are "graphite" offered for sale by several supply houses. Is there much, if any, advantage to using the graphite arbors? Obviously they would add somewhat to the cost of the build; but if there is really noticeable difference in sensitivity or "feel" it might be worthwhile. Thanks in advance.

They're actually urethane foam. Because they're more rigid and much lighter than tape and most anything else, they would indeed maintain more sensitivity than heavier and/or less rigid materials. In most ways, they're also easier and quicker to install. They cost very little.

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If you have large gaps to fill, the arbors are the best solution! For all the reasons in Tom's message above.

I have used masking tape, dry wall tape and I find the best is the Foam Arbors. Unless you have a very little gap to fill then masking tape is easier.

Ohio Rod Builders

Canton, Ohio

I usually buy these about 20 at a time. When I get some new seats in, I take the extra epoxy from grip assembly and pre-glue these into my seats making a sub-assembly. That way when I start a new build they just need a ream to fit and they're ready to mount. It saves a lot of time because I can ream the grips and mount the entire handle assembly in one step.

[www.flexcoat.com]



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/25/2015 07:53AM by John E Powell.

Thanks for all the responses. More useful info as I get started. I appreciate it.