Cary just got me two glass rod blanks (Diamondglass) to work on. I’ve got a question on the plugs for the blanks … where does one find them? I think I found the right stuff from Custom Tackle Supply, but I’m just not totally sure. And how is it adhered to the inside of the blank? This may be more of a project than I thought it would be!! :shock:
Betty, I am thinking about doing a glass rod - what plugs are you talking about - what do you need to plug?
The male end of the ferrule. In completed rods they’re always plugged with cork? rubber? Is there epoxy involved? Just “stuffed” in there? Where do you get them? <at least I’m not the only one with the questions!>
I’ll have to look at my old Fenwick - it never occurred to me. Where did you get your diamondglas blanks?
Direct from Cortland. Cary called them and got them for a song. They’re really beautiful!
On the last graphite rod that I built, I bought some cheap rubber stoppers from the hardware store. I had to cut them down and sand them to fit. Then I epoxied them in and trimmed the overhanging end with a razor blade. Took some time but it ended up looking good.
HTH,
Erik
I’ve built several glass rods from cutting one piece blanks to create two piece rods. I never bothered with the plug - the plug is not necessary to the function of the rod. However it does provide a much more professional appearance.
I would recommend something flexible to plug the blank with though. I found early on mixing graphite with glass produces tragic results due to the difference in the way the two materials bend. You want something that will give as the rod is bent…
How about a cutting a little section out of the appropriate sized O-ring and using that for a plug? That’s about the consistancy of what I see in some of my fly rods that have plugs.
Cheers,
MontanaMoose
Kewl!! Will get out the calipers and get “o” rings or rubber plug at Ace Hrdwr!! Thank you!
Have you considered using silicone caulk?
Just apply a small amount just inside the male ferrule until completely filled and wipe excess even with opening.
It’s impervious to water and remains flexible. Besides, it’s intended to be used as a seal, which is exactly what you want…isn’t it?
BTW, no measuring, trimming or sanding required.
Betty, you’re welcome !
Bugsy, wow ! Good idea, even easier !
Betty, see above !
Cheers,
MontanaMoose
MM,
I can’t take credit for it. Looking at a few of my rods, it appears that’s what (at least some of) the manufacturers are doing.
I saw/heard this method of ferrule plugging some years ago but can’t recall where. Tried to find a link to post but couldn’t find any. It may have been pre-internet.
Betty, I use RV silicone. Little dab’ll do ya. There should be enough to do a couple hundred sections in a tube. 8) Are these tip over butt instead of ferruled sections?
A little dab of Rod Bond epoxy works fine and since its the best stuff for reel handles and reel seats you are bound to have some :lol:
I usually just mix up a dab of U-40 and fill the end of the ferrule with it on glass if it needs it…really easy to work with.
Betty,
I saw your question while I was surfing and stumbled on another web site. You asked about end plugs. I just use Seam Grip. (the liquid equivalent to duct tape 
) Fill the hole then clean off the excess and let it set up. (Aqua Seal would do the same thing). They dry flexable but stay fixed in place. Its the same stuff I use to repair waders, ThermoRest mats, float tubes, tents, etc…Its a must have in my emergency kit.