Hello all,
I would like to know approx how much tension is required when wrapping the guides. What I have been doing is tight enough to have to put a little pressure on the guides for final alignment. Kind of walking it to it's final resting place. Some one told me it should easily moved but what is easily? If I can move the guide is it OK? I know the tension will be less at the tip section . I just don' twant to over do it.
TIA
Mark Schulte

Sounds like you are right on to me. All the thread needs to do is hold the guide in its desired position without allowing it to slip or accidentally move. Certainly the thread assists in final securing of the guide to the blank, but the finish is what I would call the backbone to bonding the guide to the blank. I wrap mine to where if I accidentally, bumped the guide against a support, it probably wouldn't dislodge, but it would require a couple of fingers "working" it to position the guide. (much like what you described). Wait for others input, to see what the majority rule is. I know there is much more concern with wrapping too TIGHT. This can crush the blank, or cause the guide to gouge into the blank over time. If anything, I would always stay on the light side of tension.
Elrod

Agree with Elrod. After a couple of rods you will get the feel of what is too tight.

Also, you can vary the tension depending on what size thread you are using, what guides are being installed and what the wall thickness of the blank you have.

After a little pratice you well get to know the right tension. As you wrp youwell descover that may have to add or lession your tension. One thing I do know is to much tension can cause a rod to fail under stress I use just enough tension to easily move the guid with two fingers.
Good luck Bob

here is something else you might try. temporarily wrap your guides in place with thin rubber bands, making sure the tips of the guide feet is exposed. I use those large skinny rubber bands that I cut to make a nice long band. now align the guides. now start your wraping, trying not to bump the other guides. after you wrap up to the edge of the rubber band remove it and continue wrapping that foot. I generally finish wrapping the rubber band on with a 1/2 hitch. so all I have to do is pull the exposed end of the rubber band and it will generally unwrap it self and will be suitable to be used again. doing this minimizes if not eliminates having to adjust the guides after wrapping. You still have to be concerned with the tension you put on the thread when wrapping.

Kerry