Tip guide suggestions.

[Mike_Bennewitz]

Hi guys, I am new to the Rod and Lure making forum, but am considering to dabble in making my own rod when I can afford it (darn college prices sap me dry each semester).

However, I have a few quick questions. I have a Gander Mtn Guide Series spinning rod that I am bringing in next week to get replaced. The tip top guide has a broken ceramic ring insert. I tried to remove it with a lighter and pulling, but 1: the ceramic ring's remains crumbled after heating up and 2: there is wrapping around the tube of the tip top because it is a little longer than most replacements. Due to the wrap I cannot remove it. I went through trying it over and over with a lighter today and it won't budge.

Now on to my next question. I had been told Gander will let me keep the old rod and if that is true I will replace the guides with a stronger material set. I use Berkley Fireline on this rod but will stick to mono on the new one. Does anyone know of a good material that holds up to braided line? This will be a dedicated Channel Catfish rod and the new one will be a walleye/bass rod. PM is a good way to get ahold of me as I don't always get into this forum when I visit HSO.com. Thanks!

[upnorth]

Mike it really isn't clear to me what you are asking?

Normally the tip top guide is held on with only a high temp hot glue. The rest of the guides are held on with thread and a thread epoxy.

Not totally clear what you are trying to remove?

[Brad B]

Mike,

if you want help fixing it let me know by sending me a PM. I just fixed a rod for another member on here and he was happy with the results. I'm in Monticello.

[Ross Pearson]

Light a candle or alcohol burner, put the metal tube of tip top over the flame, pull on the ring of the tip top with pliers straight away from the rod. Any hot melt tip top glue or epoxy should release. Any ceramic tip top guide can be used as a suitable replacement.