Hello everyone,

I just picked up a pristine South Bend 24-9'. It's almost perfect but has a little "hitch" about 2/3 the way up the 2nd section. I suppose that it's a bit of set. Any way, I have seen lots of information about heating straightening a blank, but it's always discussed an unfinished rod. I have no intention of rebuilding this rod - it looks new other than the set. So, what I want to know is, can I apply the heat and straighten techniques to a wrapped and finished rod to straighten it, or will I screw up the finish and/or wraps? If not, if it's safe, what's the best technique to use? What do I need to look out for that I wouldn't normally?

Regards,
Jeff