I am building a couple 4 piece rods for someone who usually builds himself but didn't have time for these. He supplied everything including the epoxy...for some reason he prefers U40 Duragloss. I usually use Flex Coat Lite, it's easy to use and looks great.

I used the U40 on one ferrule wrap and 2 of the guides. I hate the stuff I think it's way to thin. I'm fairly new to rod building but I've been using the method as described here http://www.rodbuildingforum.com/index.php?showtopic=21063 and it's has worked extremely well in the past with the FC Lite. I'm using the same method for the U40 but no matter what I do it gravitates to the middle of the wraps and leave the edges uncovered. The more I play with it the worse it looks.

Frustrated, I did the top two section using the FlexCoat. So my question is...Can I apply FC over the U40? I've lighty sanded the U40 and hoping I can use the FC.

Thanks...Rich

There is nothing wrong with the U40. Both finishes are popular and used by many with success. The difference has to be in the amount you are applying or the turning speed of your dryer. It appears that there is a difference between the consistancy of the two finishes that you are applying and you may need to adjust your application accordingly.

It isn't unusual that switching products from one you are accustom with to one you aren't will cause the differences you express to appear.

You can apply either product over the other.

I applied the FC over the U40 last night...looks great! I guess its all in what your comfortable with. I haven't given up on the U40. What I do like about it is that it has a much longer pot life than FC Lite. I need to get a scrap piece of rod to practice with. Anyway, thanks TT for the info.

Happy that it worked for you. Most epoxy brands work well when you become accustom to their unique characteristics. The differences arn't large but they are evident.