Resurfacing Brunswick Bowling Balls: Diy Guide

Brunswick bowling balls are a popular choice for recreational bowlers and professionals alike. Maintaining your Brunswick bowling ball is essential to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Over time, the ball's surface can become worn and clogged with oil, affecting its hook potential and overall performance. Here's an introduction to the process of resurfacing your Brunswick bowling ball to keep it in top shape.

Choosing the right grit pad

When selecting a grit pad, consider the amount of oil on the lane you'll be playing on. Lower grit pads, such as 500 or 800, are ideal for heavily oiled lanes as they provide more texture and help the ball grip the lane. Conversely, higher grit pads, like 3000 or 4000, are better suited for drier lanes as they create a smoother surface, allowing the ball to skid further.

It's worth noting that different brands of grit pads may yield slightly different results. For instance, TruCut pads are designed to cut bowling balls at the grit number specified on the pad, while competitive pads may cut at a higher grit level than advertised. Therefore, it's advisable to consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific grit pad you plan to use.

Additionally, the underlying surface of the bowling ball can also impact the final result. For instance, sanding a ball with a 500 grit pad followed by a 3000 grit pad will yield a different reaction compared to sanding with 1000, 2000, and then 3000 grit pads. Understanding this interplay between grit numbers and sanding sequence will help you fine-tune the resurfacing process to match your specific needs.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that the direction of sanding can also influence the ball's performance. Sanding perpendicular to the initial track, also known as "hitting the flares," can create more friction in specific parts of the lane, resulting in a more aggressive grip. However, this technique may border on illegal in certain competitions, so be sure to check the rules before employing it.

Using a spinner or doing it by hand

Resurfacing a Brunswick bowling ball can be done using a spinner or by hand. The process is similar in both cases, but using a spinner will ensure a more uniform sanding job. If you don't have access to a bowling ball spinner, you can purchase one online or make one yourself.

• Position the bowling ball on the spinner: Place the bowling ball on the spinner with the finger holes facing upwards. This is the starting position. You will need to secure the ball to prevent it from moving during the sanding process. Most ball spinners have a locking mechanism for this purpose.
• Spritz the ball with water and soak the pads: Moisten the surface of the bowling ball with water. This helps the sandpaper grip the surface better and creates a smoother finish. Fill a bowl with water and soak the sanding pads (Abralon pads or Red Label Abrasives' Abrasilk hook and loop sanding discs) in it for a few minutes. Choose the appropriate grit level based on your goals.
• Start sanding the ball: Begin sanding the ball with the lowest-grit abrasive pad. You can start with 180 grit and work your way up to 360, 500, and 1000 grit. Move the pad in a circular motion around the ball, applying even pressure. Reposition the ball on the spinner as needed to ensure you cover the entire surface.
• Apply compound and polish: After sanding, apply a compound and a polishing agent to the ball's surface. These compounds smooth out any remaining imperfections and give the ball a high-gloss finish. Use a new cloth to spread the polish evenly until it shines.
• Clean the ball: Remove the ball from the spinner and spray some cleaner on it. Wipe the ball with a clean cloth, making sure to clean the finger holes and the exterior thoroughly.

If you are resurfacing the bowling ball by hand, you can use a home resurfacing kit. The process is similar to using a spinner, but you will need to hold the sanding pad in your hand and apply even pressure as you move it across the surface of the ball. Remember to wear gloves and safety glasses to protect your hands and eyes during the process.

Applying compound and polish

Once you have finished sanding your Brunswick bowling ball, it's time to apply the compound and polish. These steps will help to smooth out any remaining imperfections and give your ball a high-gloss, tacky finish. This will also help your ball to have a sharp reaction on the backend when you bowl.

Before you begin, ensure you have a separate, clean towel or cloth to apply the compound and polish. You will also need to set your spinner to its highest speed setting.

First, apply an even amount of compound to your ball, continuing to rotate it in the same manner as when you were sanding. Then, use a different cloth to apply the polish. Finally, clean your ball with a spray cleaner and wipe it down with a third, unused cloth.

It is recommended that you resurface your bowling ball after every 60 to 75 games, or at least once per season. This will help to maintain its performance and ensure it lasts for many years.

Maintaining your ball

Maintaining your Brunswick bowling ball reaction is essential to ensure its performance and longevity. Here are some detailed instructions to help you maintain your ball:

Basic Maintenance:

It is important to wipe your ball before every shot to remove any oil or dirt. This will help the ball roll more consistently and prevent the absorption of lane oil into the ball's coverstock. After each session, use a commercial cleaner to wipe down your ball.

Deep Cleaning:

It is recommended to use a liquid detergent to thoroughly clean your ball after every 75 games or so. This will help remove any built-up oil and dirt from the ball's surface and pores.

Resurfacing:

Resurfacing your bowling ball involves restoring the sharp edges of the pores on its surface. This process can be done at home or by a professional at a pro shop. If choosing to do it yourself, here is a step-by-step guide:

• Place the bowling ball on a spinner with the finger holes facing upwards.
• Spritz the ball with water and soak the sanding pads to moisten the surface and pads.
• Start sanding the ball with the lowest-grit pad, working your way up to higher grits. Move the pad in a circular motion, applying even pressure.
• Reposition the ball as needed to ensure you cover the entire surface.
• After sanding, apply a compound and a polishing agent to smooth out imperfections and give the ball a high-gloss finish.
• Finally, clean your ball with a bowling ball cleaner and allow it to dry.

Frequency of Maintenance:

It is generally recommended to resurface your bowling ball after every 60 games or at least once per season. However, if you notice a decrease in performance, such as reduced hook potential or improper grip on the lane, it may be time to resurface sooner. Regular maintenance will help your ball roll consistently and ensure it remains in peak condition.

When to get a new ball

Bowling balls are subjected to wear and tear and there is no definitive timeline for when to replace them. However, with proper maintenance, a quality bowling ball should last at least 5 to 10 years. The lifespan of a bowling ball depends on factors such as usage frequency, maintenance, climate, and exposure to varying temperatures.

• Visible wear and tear: Issues like a cracked coverstock, visible tracks, or a hollow sound when hitting the pins may signal the need for a replacement. While some problems can be fixed by re-polishing, resurfacing, or replacing finger inserts, significant damage like deep cracks may warrant a new ball.
• Loss of performance: Over time, bowling balls may lose their reactivity and hook potential. If you find yourself struggling to hook the ball as effectively as before, it might be a sign that the ball has reached the end of its useful life.
• Core issues: Core separation is another common issue with older bowling balls. If you hear a rattling sound when the ball hits the floor or a hollow sound when striking the pins, it could indicate a separated core.
• Inadequate weight: As your skills evolve, you may find that the weight of your bowling ball is no longer optimal for your technique or physical attributes. In such cases, it may be beneficial to invest in a new ball that aligns with your improved abilities.
• Coverstock considerations: Different coverstock materials (polyester, urethane, reactive resin, etc.) offer varying levels of friction, hook potential, and performance in different lane conditions. As your bowling skills progress, you may want to upgrade to a coverstock that suits your playing style and the lane conditions you encounter most often.
• Performance plateau: If you feel that your current bowling ball is hindering your performance and preventing you from achieving your bowling goals, it might be time to consider an upgrade. A new ball with characteristics that match your evolving skills can help take your game to the next level.

Frequently asked questions