Shimming a blank to ferrule???

[chumtini]

What (if any) is the best way to shim a blank into an Aftco #ferrule? These are tuna rods with seeker blanks to aftco #2 SBSC. They're a little long and cutting down the tip is not an option. If I cut from the butt, then the dia is too small for the ferrule. HEEELLLPPP

[FAT CAT MX]

When using a uni-butt, you do need to cut the blank (from the butt) to maintain the blanks designed action. That usually requires making bushings in order to align the blank properly into the ferrule. You can make bushings from everything from masking tape to pieces of the cut off rod blank. Some guys use drywall tape. Most important to use a good slow cure epoxy for a strong bond.

[FLATLINER]

drywall tape is all i use. I was using masking tape, but the tape keeps cement from getting to the blank fully. drywall tape (mesh) allows cement to get all throughout the bushing.

Kevin

[54bullwinkle]

I personally dont like using masking tape, drywall tape is fine if you dont have to go too thick. Wrap it until it fits and hold the wrap with a drop of superglue to keep it wrapped. (keep the corners flat) Use slow curing epoxy. I cut mine with a little acetone so that the epoxy reaches the blank. Make sure the tape is fully saturated to the blank.

If I have to go thicker I use coffee stirring sticks. There are thin ones and thicker (Starbucks) size. Cut them 1/4 inch shorter than the depth of the ferrule. I glue them around the blank end with 30 min epoxy, holding them in place with zip ties. I leave some space between them for the glue. When it hardens I remove the zip ties. They sand easily if you have to.
Make sure you mask off the blank and ferrule for both ways, as this can get a little messy.

PS... I just switched to Storabuts and am selling my aftco uni's if anyone is interested

[chumtini]

Thank you gentlemen. I need to go from 0.75 to 0.875" diameter. So, I need to fill a 1/16" gap all the way around. Might stop for a cup of coffee on the way to the drywall store on the way home tonite.