Quote Originally Posted by apb View Post
Preheating the mold definitely helps with the pours. I usually run several pours through the mold before putting hooks in. Once I've gotten a couple of good pours, I'll add the hooks. Using soft lead will also help with getting good results. Tire weights have plenty of other materials besides lead and can cause problems. Might be ok for sinker molds. Get some good lead at your local plumbing supply.

Andrew
I agree with two or three runs with no hooks makes a big difference, especially in the barb/collar area.