i have built something in the neigborhood of about 20 rods, and this has only happened to one of them. i built an all star 1208 spinner two falls ago. i did everything the same with this rod, as i did with those before and after. now, for the 3rd time, the tip has come loose and i have to re do it. the epoxy cracked at the base of the tip tube, and now spins on the rod. when i do tips, i use hot melt rod tip glue, wrap up to and over the tube with thread, then finish with U-40. i can't understand what is wrong with this ONE rod? any thoughts?

Maybe one size too large and all them River fish flex it enough to crack the glue?

Maybe its the River Water . . . disolves everything else :p


Are you using the same top over and over? Maybe time to try from scrach

the tip is the right size. i did switch to a new tip after the first time it broke, though.

this is a common problem i have had in dealing w/ all star blanks. email me.

I use 5 minute epoxy. put some on both the rod tip and inside the tube with a toothpick.

Be sure you get all the surfaces wet with epoxy then slide the tip on. Don't rely on the epoxy from one part spreading to the other. I put enough inside the tube such that some sqirts out the end when slid onto the tip.

Also be sure to clean the rod beore applying the epoxy. i use acetone damp on a wrag. not sopping wet , just enough to wipe off any surface film.

By now , after 4 attempts , there's probably lots of crap on the tip. you may need to lightly sand with 400-600 grit before the next attempt.

I've been lucky and never had a problem this way. I gave up on hot melt for just the reasons you are describing.

I use Fuji Hot melt glue sticks on graphite rods never had it come loose. the Gudebrod does not seem to hold as good.

:btu: what Mike said