Removing Flexcoat?

[Artful52]

Rebuilding an old rod and have removed all the guides but there is a thin Layer of flexcoat that I cant seem to get off. Anyone know how or have any ideas ...Thanks in advance for any help.....Art

 

[CANE86]

I think you can use acetone.

 

[JasonM]

Use an exacto or razor blade and make a slice just through the flexcote and thread parallel to the rod. It will then peel off.

 

[AKSkim]

Acetone Msds

I think you can use acetone.

I don't about removing flexcoat from a bamboo rod.

But if you do use ACETONE here is the MSDS for it. Please read before purchase and use.

Be safe.

Acetone MSDS

 

[JeffK]

Flexcoat should be a thermoset epoxy or polyester so solvent isn't going to be effective. Epoxies are great, but they are hard to remove when you need to.

Need to cut. I want to highlight JasonM's comment on parallel. If you slip with the blade and it is parallel to the rod the blade will slide the rod. If the blade is facing towards the rod and slip you will cut a few fibers and weaken the rod.

 

[JasonM]

I only use acetone for cleaning the blank before applying flexcote and wrapping. It's good for removing sticky stuff, but once the flexcote hardens and is set, about all it does is make shine better. I wasn't thinking it was bamboo though. I am pretty sure most bamboo rods do not use flexcote, but they use the spar varnish in a thinned out formula dipped in a tank. I have redone some old bamboo rods and the best stuff that I have found for removing the varnish is the environmentally safe citrus remover. I couldn't believe how well it peeled the finish right off of the rod. Take your time and cut slowly with the exacto and you will be fine.

 

[nate]

The blade is the way to go. Try heating the blade over an alcohol lamp flame or a candle. It really makes the job much easier.
Prolonged exposure to acetone can break down the resins that hold the rod fabric together. The blade suggestion might seem a long and labor intensive task, but it is likely the best method to remove the unwanted finish.