I have been running into an issue with plug work.  Not sure whether it is related to the plug cutter or the curing/mix of the plug.

I try to be very careful about the ratio of plug/hardener and gently mix to prevent air entrapment.  Temperature in my basement was a little cool (around 68F), so I allowed a full 24 hrs.  The plug inside the dam was hard, no air bubbles on the surface.

When I cut down the plug, there was a very rough texture:

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af243/sberkhous/Mobile%20Uploads/20141230_115527_zpsc70d4662.jpg

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af243/sberkhous/Mobile%20Uploads/20141230_115702_zps61c5195f.jpg

After
After finishing up the plug work and cleaning up the ball, the plug isn't aweful (besides the color match ), but there are a few tiny "pits" that show up:

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af243/sberkhous/Mobile%20Uploads/20141230_122538_zps2d16b0a9.jpg

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af243/sberkhous/Mobile%20Uploads/20141230_122549_zpscaac769c.jpg


http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af243/sberkhous/Mobile%20Uploads/20141230_122622_zps32513761.jpg

This one is going to be redrilled back through the plug material, so not too big of a deal, but otherwise, I think it should be possibly to do a little better job and eliminate the pits.

Has anyone else ran into this before?  Am I missing something or missing a critical step?  Any suggestions to try?

I'm using the Pro's Choice plug material from Innovative.

Thanks,
Scott

The picture of the plug cut down before finishing appears normal. Usually bubbles are caused by the plug curing too fast for the air bubbles to rise out of the mixture. Try mixing the plug slower and/or coloring on the darker side so they aren't as apparent. You should also be filing the plug with a bevel knife after cutting it down. If these don't help try switching brands of plug. I've always had good luck with Brunswick's plug (better for lower temperatures) and Ebonite's Power House Everclear plug (be careful as this can get too hot too quick if mixed really aggressively.)

Hope this helps

Thanks for the advice everyone.

Scott

Yes, measuring cups.