Rod Repair

[newriverfisherman1953]

I have a rod that needs repair.  The nut that holds the reel is broken and won't stay tight.  I wouldn't mind trying to replace the handle.  Any help/ideas on how to remove the old handle and tips on replacing with a new one?  Thanks. 

[newriverfisherman1953]

I guess my real question here is: What is the best way to get the old handle off?

[happy_fisherman]

To get the handle off you can put in boiling water. This will loosen the epoxy. Be careful not to leave in water to long. Excess heat can damage the blank. You can also take a dremel type tool and cut the handle horizontal with several cuts the take a knife and scrape the handle material off. Now you will need to remove the reel seat. Uses the dremel again or a coping saw with a fine tooth blade. be very careful not to cut into the rod blank. Once the handle and reel seat are removed apply heat to the epoxy and clean it from the blank. I use a heat gun for this. Again be very careful not to over heat or cut into the blank. When you have as much of the epoxy off the blank lightly sand the area then clean it with denatured alcohol. Now you are ready to fit your new handle and reel seat. St. Croix Rods sell handle kits that will do the job. You can get every thing you need at mudhole.com.

[newriverfisherman1953]

Thanks for the info.  I will give it a try and post pics when I am done.

[MickD]

My experience with taking reel seats and grips off is that the boiling water may not be needed. With factory rods there often is not a lot of epoxy used and shims are often cardboard which makes it relatively easy to pry the parts off once you make the longitudinal cuts (I've found dremel type tool to be the best option) recommended in the previous post. Cleanup may take you more time than the removal of the parts.

One of my favorite rods now is one I rebuilt like this. I didn't like the reel seat and grip design, or the guides, but liked the action. Now it is a great rod, better than new.

[Delaware Valley Tackle]

The cork can be pinched off in chunks with a pair of pliers. The edge of an old credit card makes a good scraper that will not damage the blank. Take note of the common thread in each post: conservative use of heat and do not cut or sand into the fibers.Installing the new handle from the rear can be tricky due to the blank taper. Ream very slowly and use a wrap or two of drywall tape as arbors as needed to make a secure fit. The last thing you want is a loose, mushy grip.