Weight

[bbf]

How much weight does d2t add when using it as a sealer and topcoat? Or is that over kill? I usually use dn to topcoat repaints. Want to start using d2t on my hand made cranks. Thanks

[Cliff Logue]

You will be fine if you just stay with one coat. I think it alters suspending jerkbaits more than anything else. I try to put it on as thin as possible when I use epoxy

[Vodkaman]

Yes, epoxies do add weight, but not as much as you might think. This is because they also add volume. As the lures volume increases, it can carry more weight (Archimedes).

Epoxy has a specific gravity of 1.2, but only the .2 part is added ballast. So only 1/6th of the weight of the epoxy applied actually counts as ballast. As Cliff pointed out, this is mainly a concern for those building close to neutral buoyancy.

Dave

[bbf]

Thanks for the replies.

[BIG M]

Dave, you make my head hurt. As usual you are correct but I did it another way. If the bait sinks with two coats then that's too much. On balsa you will be fine with a seal coat and clear coat. You could go another route and use a different clear coat and I would suggest Flex Coat ultra v high build. It's thinner, longer working time, and uv stuff in it so the baits don't turn yellow. Devcon turns yellow from heat also, not just direct sunlight.

Check out the rod building finishes for a new clear coat.

[bbf]

Thanks big m for the reply. Im actually building some from basswood. So Im trying to determine my balast weight. Working on getting a scale! I prob. shouldve mention that in the original post. Ive talked to you before about the ultra v. Just havent gotten around to getting any yet.

[BobP]

When I build baits, I work to a final weight by adding up the components, ballast, body, and finish. On an average bass bait, say 2 1/4", the finish including a D2T undercoat and topcoat adds about .02 oz to the weight of the finished bait. A single coat of D2T would add less, so that's not much. I build some flat sided bass baits from basswood and use .35 oz as my target weight for a slow rising bait. Digital scales are cheap and a good investment.

[bbf]

Thanks bobp for the insight and help. Im actually building some flat sides. Hopefully have my scale in a week of so.....