Brunswick Pool Table: Restoration Guide

Brunswick pool tables are steeped in history, with the company being one of the oldest and most renowned manufacturers of pool tables. Restoring one of these antique tables is a meticulous process that requires attention to detail and a good understanding of the table's unique features. The restoration process involves several steps, from identifying the table's age and model to carefully disassembling, repairing, and refinishing the various components.

Disassembling the table: use a flathead screwdriver or needle-nose pliers to remove staples

Disassembling a pool table can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and approach, it can be accomplished successfully. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process of removing staples from your Brunswick pool table using a flat-head screwdriver or needle-nose pliers:

The first step is to gather your tools and materials. Make sure you have a flat-head screwdriver that fits the staples securely. If the staples are small or located in tight spaces, needle-nose pliers can be a useful alternative. Needle-nose pliers are long and narrow with pointy, curved, or angled tips and insulated handles for a comfortable grip. They are designed to fit into cramped areas that may be inaccessible to other tools.

Once you have your tools ready, locate the staples on the pool table. Examine the staples and determine whether they are screwed in or simply pressed into the surface. If the staples are screwed in, you will need to use your flat-head screwdriver. Place the flat tip of the screwdriver into the head of the staple and turn it counterclockwise to loosen and remove it. Be sure to apply just enough force to turn the screwdriver without slipping out of the staple's head. Choose a screwdriver size that fits the staples securely to avoid slipping.

If the staples are pressed into the surface, you can use either the flat-head screwdriver or the needle-nose pliers for removal. To use the screwdriver, insert the flat tip under the staple and gently pry it out by lifting or twisting the screwdriver. For the needle-nose pliers, open the jaws and position them around the staple. Gently squeeze the handles to get a secure grip on the staple, then lift or twist to remove it. Be careful not to apply excessive force, as this can damage the surface of the pool table.

Removing staples from your Brunswick pool table requires patience and precision. Take your time and work through each staple, ensuring they are all removed safely. Once you have completed this step, you will be one step closer to recovering your pool table!

Removing side rails: use a wrench to unscrew bolts

To remove the side rails of a Brunswick pool table, you'll need to unscrew the bolts that hold them in place. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Gather the Right Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools on hand. You'll need a wrench that fits the bolts on your pool table. It's recommended to use a box-end wrench or a socket wrench for this task. In addition, you may want to have some penetrating oil or lubricant, such as WD-40, to help loosen any rusted or stubborn bolts.

Prepare the Work Area

Clear the area around the pool table to ensure you have enough space to work comfortably. Place a drop cloth or cardboard under the table to protect the floor from any falling debris or scratches. If there is felt or cloth on the rails, you may need to remove it carefully using a staple remover or a screwdriver.

Loosen the Bolts

Locate the bolts that secure the side rails to the table. Spray some penetrating oil or lubricant onto the bolts and wait for a few minutes to allow it to soak in. This will help loosen any rust or corrosion. If the bolts are extremely rusted, you may need to use a wire brush to remove as much rust as possible before applying the penetrating oil.

Unscrew the Bolts

Fit the wrench onto the bolt head and hold it firmly. Apply steady pressure and turn the wrench counterclockwise to unscrew the bolt. If the bolt is particularly tight, you can use a breaker bar or a pipe extension to get more leverage. Just slide the pipe over the handle of your wrench to extend its length and provide extra torque. Be cautious when using extensions, as they can increase the risk of stripping the bolt head.

Remove the Side Rails

Once all the bolts are removed, carefully lift and set aside the side rails. Place them in a safe area, preferably wrapped in blankets or bubble wrap to prevent damage. With the side rails removed, you can now access the underlying components of the pool table for further maintenance or restoration.

Remember to keep track of the bolts and other hardware you remove during the disassembly process. It's a good idea to mark or label the parts and their locations to make reassembly easier. Taking photos at each step can also help you remember the correct positioning of the side rails and other components.

Lifting the slate: it's heavy, so get help

Slate is a type of stone that is used for the bed on pool tables. It is the preferred material over wood because it does not warp, its weight provides stability, and it allows pool balls to roll correctly across the table. Slate tables account for about 60 to 70 percent of the total weight of a pool table. The thickness of the slate will vary depending on whether the table is designed for home or tournament use. Most typical tables have a 1-inch slate bed. For simpler travel, slate tables usually come in one large piece or three separate pieces. Tables with one-piece slate beds will typically be 3/4 inch thick, whereas 3-piece tables will have a 1-inch slate. The weight of 1-inch pieces is different from the 3/4 inch pieces.

Due to the weight of slate, it is important to have help when moving a pool table. It will take two people to move the slates. When lifting the slate, do not lift it from the bed if it is doweled—you will break it. Instead, separate it with care, keeping it laying flat. Large cardboard boxes can be useful when moving slate, laid flat to help you slide the slate and also to protect it.

If you are moving the pool table into a room, it is important to prepare the space to accept such a large addition. This will help prevent scuffing and damage to your floor, as well as making it easier to move your table around in the future. Using rubber-lined pool table feet or laying the table on a thick, heavy rug can protect your floor. As a precaution, do not put heavier tables on hardwood floor planks that could crack over time from the weight.

Removing legs: simple, just unscrew

Removing the legs from a Brunswick pool table is a simple process. It is usually the last step in the disassembly of a pool table. The legs are typically screwed into the body of the table, so all you need to do is unscrew them. Depending on the model of your pool table, you may also need to remove a couple of nuts to unsecure the legs.

• Identify the screws or bolts holding the legs in place. These are usually located at the joints where the legs meet the table body.
• Get your tools ready. You will need a screwdriver or a wrench to unscrew the legs. If there are nuts, you may also need a socket set or a spanner.
• Place the tools at the joints of the legs.
• Start unscrewing the legs one by one. If there are nuts, you may need to remove them first before you can unscrew the legs.
• As you remove each leg, keep the screws and nuts in a safe place. You will need them again when reassembling the table.
• Once all the legs are removed, carefully set the table body aside.

It is important to note that the process of removing the legs may vary slightly depending on the model of your Brunswick pool table. Some tables may have additional fasteners or mechanisms to secure the legs. Always refer to the instruction manual or seek advice from a professional if you are unsure.

Additionally, remember to exercise caution when handling the table. Pool tables are heavy and can weigh several hundred pounds. It is recommended to have an extra set of hands to help with the lifting and moving of the table during the disassembly process.

Reassembling: work backwards from disassembly

When reassembling your Brunswick pool table, it is important to work backwards from the disassembly process. This means that you will essentially be performing the reverse of each step you took to disassemble the table. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the reassembly process:

Start by placing the pool table's frame or legs in the desired location. If you were able to move the frame as one piece, you can simply position it in the correct spot. Otherwise, carefully reassemble the frame or legs, ensuring that all pieces are securely connected.

Next, you will need at least one other person to help you lift the slate and place it back onto the frame. Be extremely cautious during this step, as the slate is heavy and fragile. Make sure to handle it with care and avoid lifting it from the bed, as this can cause damage. Once the slate is in place, you can begin reattaching any removed hardware, such as screws or bolts, to secure it to the frame.

After the slate is securely attached, you can move on to reinstalling the rails. This step may vary depending on the model of your Brunswick pool table. For example, if your table has T-rails, you will need a specific bit to remove and reinstall them. Make sure to refer to the disassembly process and any relevant resources for guidance on rail reinstallation.

As you work, remember to refer to any markings or labels you made during disassembly. These will help you identify where each piece goes and ensure that you are reassembling the table correctly. If you drew a diagram or took photos during disassembly, refer to them now for guidance.

Once the rails are in place, you can begin reattaching the cloth or felt to the slate. If the cloth was stapled, use a staple gun or heavy-duty stapler to reattach it securely. Stretch the cloth tightly across the slate, ensuring there are no wrinkles or creases.

Finally, reattach any remaining components, such as the pockets, cushions, and decorative elements. Pay attention to the geometry of the pockets, as this is critical to good playability. Make any necessary adjustments to the pocket irons to ensure they are authentic and aesthetically pleasing.

Throughout the reassembly process, take your time and work carefully. If you encounter any issues or need further guidance, don't hesitate to consult a professional or seek advice from online forums dedicated to pool table restoration.

Frequently asked questions