Dead Rails

[Counterspell]

I have a AESchmidt table, it is approx 5 years old. The side rails near the side pockets seem a little dead the closer you get the pocket, the ball comes off the rail with more of a thud sound. Any tips on fixing this problem? Would tightening the rail bolts help?

Also what cloth do you recommend for a home table.

 

[Club Billiards]

I have a AESchmidt table, it is approx 5 years old. The side rails near the side pockets seem a little dead the closer you get the pocket, the ball comes off the rail with more of a thud sound. Any tips on fixing this problem? Would tightening the rail bolts help?

Also what cloth do you recommend for a home table.

Tightening the rail bolts will help if they are loose. Give the rail a tap with the meat of your hand and see if it makes the same thud sound. If so, it could be movement in the rail or loose hardware, or even a loose blind that you're hearing. A loose rail could also cause the ball to come off a little dead, since the movement in the rail is absorbing some of the energy of the ball. Or it's possible your rubber is going bad and needs replaced.