Well I Got It
I purchased the table in question a couple of weeks ago. A friend of mine and I went to Playtime Billiards in Kalamazoo and picked it up. I got it home and it took me a long time to get it set up. For the record, I am NOT a table mechanic. This was only even the second time I've done a table before (third time if I get credit for doing my existing table twice). :thumbup:
Anyway, I'm very pleased with how the table plays overall. I do understand what JC was saying about this table being a little bit chintzier than the GC's. I will probably have to buy all new pockets for it. Just about all those recessed thingamajigs broke off. I tried to glue several of them back on and I've had mixed results. But overall, I think this table is a very solid, well built table. Of course, I don't have a whole lot to base that on.
It's not real fast but it's been pretty humid in my basement and I haven't had the dehumidifier going. I was able to get 5 rails when I hit it up and down at break speed. If it dries out a bit I think I will be happy with it. I haven't upgraded the cloth yet. So I might put something on later that's a bit faster than the 860. Maybe 860 HR???
I really wanted to tighten up the pockets but I didn't want to have to replace the cloth right now. I was pretty excited that I managed to pull back just a portion of the rail cloth, just enough to replace the facings. It was pretty tight in a couple of spots and I'm not sure how well the cloth is going to hold up in the side pockets. Only time will tell.
Anyways, I just wanted to thank all you mechanics for sharing your knowledge, even if it is done in a cryptic fashion at times. I sort of like that you have to hunt for some information. The way I figure it, only those that are REALLY interested in learning stuff from this forum will be able to. Those that do the drive byes probably have a hard time figuring stuff out.
Also, keep in mind that giving up information to us DIY'ers might lose you a bit of business up front, but I'm fairly certain in the long run it works out in your favor because I know my limitations and I have gained a whole new level of respect for what some of you guys do. A level of respect that is only gained after trying to install table on your own.
I wasn't sure what to do with the old table. It was an old AMF - Grand Prix (I know what are the odds?). I chose to just junk it. The center slate was broken to pieces and several of the rails had been nearly beaten to death by someone that didn't know how to put feather stripping back in. I just said a silent prayer and sent it on its way. I did save the end caps and I did find a place for one of the end rails.
***Just a note***
I mentioned previously that this was the same table that the Rempe vs. Efren match was played on. I meant to say that it was the same model. Now having viewed that match and seen my table I don't even think they are exactly the same. I believe they have different stains. Just setting the record straight.
Thanks again guys.