Installing plastic pockets

S

steveharn

AzB Silver Member
Silver Member
We converted a ball return table to plastic drop pockets. We thought the metal ball return guides were responsible for nicking the balls. Not sure of that now. We put 3 or 4 tacks in each pocket to secure them. Some of the heads were protruding and the new balls are nicked again. We put black electrical tape over the heads and now I see some black spots on the red 3. Tape bad idea? What should we do to correct this problem. Not sure what type of tacks to use to secure the pockets. Thanks for any help. Black oversize Gandy.
 
steveharn said:
We converted a ball return table to plastic drop pockets. We thought the metal ball return guides were responsible for nicking the balls. Not sure of that now. We put 3 or 4 tacks in each pocket to secure them. Some of the heads were protruding and the new balls are nicked again. We put black electrical tape over the heads and now I see some black spots on the red 3. Tape bad idea? What should we do to correct this problem. Not sure what type of tacks to use to secure the pockets. Thanks for any help. Black oversize Gandy.
Click to expand...

I use my 1/4" inch crown stapler to fasten the ears of the pockets because the heads of the staples sink into the plastic of the pocket liner ears, yet still hold the ear to the sub-rail very good. Any use of tacks or nails for the most part is going to leave something for contact to nick the balls sooner or later. One other thing you can try and do is mount the nails/tacks in an area where the balls can't hit them when being pocketed, try below the center of the balls first.

Glen
 
I am having the same concern, as I am about to install plastic pockets.
I was planning to keep an eye on yard sales this spring to see if I can find a black leather coat that is cheap. I would cut it up and use the leather to line the pockets.
 
pocket tacks

I have seen people go to the hardware store and buy screws that come with a plastic snap that cover the screws. I would use some locktite if you are going to try this.Thanx, Ron
www.lccsbilliards.com
 
You can use staples as mentioned above or you can use a nail set to slightly drive the tacks/nails into the plastic beyond flush. 1 tack or nail on each side is sufficient. Dab a bit of black marker on the heads so they won't be noticeable.
 
Where?

Where are you putting the tacks? If you are putting any thing in the back of the pocket you're putting it in the wrong place. I like to use two round headed brass nails in the tab on each side of the leading corner of the pocket that extends over the sub-rail. That's it! If the sub-rail and pocket are installed properly it is not possible for the ball to contact to head of the small brass nails.
 
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