How to Replace the Gimbal on the End of My Fishing Rod

How to Replace the Gimbal on the End of My Fishing Rod

fishing rod image by Gina Smith from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Saltwater fishermen going for the large sport fish such as marlin and tuna often employ harnesses equipped with special rod holders which accept the gimbal of the fishing rod. Gimbals are the butt caps on the end of the rod that assists with pushing the rod into the harness holders or cup holders on the transom of the boat. Because the gimbal is in constant contact with the holders, typically under stress and weight, the friction erodes the rubber and plastic, necessitating the need to replace it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Replacement gimbal
  • Crescent wrench, multi-tool with pliers or vice grips
  • Fishing rod
  • Bucket of fresh water
  • Epoxy or heavy duty glue stick
  • Fine sand paper
Step 1
Soak the gimbal and the end of the rod in the bucket of water. Let both pieces sit in the water until the gimbal is swollen, as well as the end of the rod. With the pliers, vise grip or multi-tool, grip the old gimbal and twist until it begins to move around the rod. Slowly turn the gimbal while gently pulling to the direction where it slides off the end of the rod.
Step 2
Dry the end of the rod, now that it is free from the old gimbal. Once dry, smooth the rod end with the sandpaper and blow off the excess wood shavings and sediment from the sanding.
Step 3
Glue or epoxy the inside of the replacement gimbal with one light coat of the chosen material. Glue or epoxy a light coat of the adhesive onto the end of the fishing rod. Twisting gently, and to the right, slowly push the replacement gimbal onto the end of the fishing reel. Let the glue or epoxy dry and set.
Step 4
Test the new gimbal by twisting and pulling once the glue or epoxy has dried. The new gimbal should not move at all around the rod.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

Write for Trails.com
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