Disassembling A Brunswick Pool Table

If you need to move a Brunswick pool table, it's best to disassemble it first. This is because Brunswick pool tables are extraordinarily heavy, with a slate playing surface and a solid wood structure. To take apart a Brunswick pool table, you'll need a few tools, including a socket wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, and a drill. The process involves removing the bolts, rails, pockets, felt, slate, and legs. It's important to keep the hardware components together in a plastic bag and to be careful when handling the heavy slate pieces. Reassembly is the opposite of disassembly, and it's recommended to install new felt after relocating the table.

Removing the staples and pockets

Removing the Staples:

First, identify the staples that need to be removed. These staples are typically found underneath the table and are used to secure the leather drop pockets in place. Put on eye protection to safeguard your eyes from any falling staples. Lie on your back beneath the table and use a flat-head screwdriver or a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully remove the staples. Be cautious as you dislodge them, as they can easily fall. Once all the staples are removed, place the pockets in a box and set them aside.

Removing the Pockets:

Now that the staples have been taken out, it's time to detach the pockets from the table. If pocket liners are present, remove them first. Then, focus on the screws or staples that attach the pocket straps to the table. If you don't have a staple remover, a flat-head screwdriver can be used to pry the staples out. Leave the pockets in place for now. This step is usually easier to perform from under the table.

After completing these steps, you will have successfully removed the staples and pockets from your Brunswick pool table. Remember to stay cautious throughout the process, as staples and screws can be small and easily lost, and the pockets can be delicate.

Unscrewing the side rails

Locate the Rail Bolts: Begin by identifying the bolts that secure the side rails to the table. These bolts are typically found underneath each rail, with around three or four bolts per rail. For older Brunswick pool tables, you may encounter special bolts with two holes. In such cases, you'll need to order a forked tool from a pool table supply store for removal.

Gather the Necessary Tools: Ensure you have the right tools for the job. A standard socket wrench is usually sufficient for removing the rail bolts. However, for older tables with special bolts, you'll need that forked tool. Additionally, wear eye protection to safeguard against any falling staples or debris.

Remove the Rail Bolts: With your wrench, carefully loosen and remove the bolts from underneath each rail. Place the bolts in a safe location, such as a plastic bag, to ensure they remain together and easily accessible for reassembly.

Separate the Rails: Once all the bolts are removed, carefully lift and separate the side rails from the table. Depending on the model of your Brunswick pool table, the side rails may be a single piece or multiple sections. If two rails are connected at a corner, you may need to gently flip them over to detach them. Set the rails aside, being cautious not to damage the side pockets.

Bag the Screws and Label Components: As you work, it's essential to stay organized. Place the screws and bolts in a bag or container to keep them together. Additionally, labelling or marking the components as you disassemble them will make reassembly much easier.

By following these steps, you can efficiently and effectively unscrew and remove the side rails of your Brunswick pool table. Remember to work carefully, especially when dealing with older tables or delicate components, to avoid any damage or mishaps.

Detaching the felt

If the felt is stapled, use a flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to carefully remove each staple. Take your time with this step to avoid tearing the felt, unless it is worn out and you plan to replace it. Once the staples are removed, carefully fold the felt and set it aside.

If the felt is glued, start at one corner of the table and gently pull the felt away from the slate in a slow, backward motion. Be extra cautious when pulling the felt up around the pockets to avoid tearing. As with stapled felt, once removed, carefully fold the felt and set it aside.

After removing the felt, you will be able to access the slate bed, which is typically made up of three separate pieces that can weigh between 150 and 250 pounds each, or a single piece weighing up to 800 pounds. It is recommended to have an assistant to help lift and move the slate pieces safely.

Lifting the slate

First, use a screwdriver to carefully remove any staples or screws holding the felt in place. If the felt is glued on, gently pull it off the slate in a slow, backward motion, being extra careful when pulling the felt up around the pockets. Once the felt is removed, fold it neatly and set it aside.

Next, locate the screws holding the slate in place. These are usually found at the corners of the table but may also be along the sides and centre beam. If the screws are covered with beeswax or putty, carefully scrape it off with a screwdriver to expose the screw head. Using a drill, remove each screw holding the slate in place.

After all the screws are out, it's time to lift the slate. Most tables have a playing surface made from three slate slabs, each weighing around 250 lbs. Get a couple of friends to help and move the slabs carefully to the side, as a scratch or chip could ruin the table. One-piece slates can weigh up to 800 lbs, so enlist several strong people to help move these.

Disassembling the frame

Step 1: Flip the Table Over: Start by turning the table over so that its legs are pointing up in the air. This will give you access to the bolts that secure the legs to the outer frame. It is recommended to have an assistant help with this step to ensure the table is flipped carefully and safely.

Step 2: Remove the Table Legs: With the table flipped over, you will now be able to access the bolts holding the table legs to the outer frame. Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts. Place the bolts in a plastic bag for safekeeping. Once the bolts are removed, carefully set the table legs aside.

Step 3: Unbolt the Table Supports: Brunswick pool tables have a support grid made of wood that interlocks and is bolted together. Remove the bolts from the interlocking points and place them in the bag. Then, carefully remove the table supports one at a time.

Step 4: Separate the Side Walls: After removing the table legs and supports, focus on the side walls of the table's base. Remove the screws holding the blocks inside the corners of the table. As you unscrew these, the side walls will come apart. Be cautious to prevent the walls from falling and damaging the finish of the wood.

Step 5: Final Steps: At this point, the frame should be mostly disassembled. Any remaining steps will depend on the specific model of your Brunswick pool table. Carefully inspect the frame for any additional connections or components that need to be addressed. Remember to collect all the hardware (bolts, screws, etc.) and keep them organised in the plastic bag for easier reassembly.

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