Q: I have a rod ferrule that is stuck, and I can’t seem to get it apart. Any ideas on how to break the hold?
-unidentified phone caller
**A: **It is rare that two people cannot separate a stuck ferrule if proper technique is used. Fiberglass, graphite and boron ferrules should be put together by a one-quarter twist of the two sections as they are joined. It is imperative that you twist in the opposite direction when separating them.
Here is a method requiring two people that almost always works when trying to separate hard-to-crack ferrules: Each person grips one section with one hand and places the other hand on the other rod section. It is important to have one hand of each person on opposite sides of the ferrule. If not, the ferrule may receive uneven pressure, which can damage the rod. The rod is then twisted in the opposite direction of assembly.
For an individual with no additional help, gripping each rod section with a rubber “jar opener” or similar rubber material may give enough gripping surface for separating the sections.
