Expert: - 5/27/2008

Question
Hi,  I am a stroker.  I dont have alot of revs but I am not at the bottom of the barrel.  What i need to know is that I need a ball for oil so what kind of pin should I get to make the ball hook in oil but not angular.  More on an arch. I want to get the Cell.  I hear it is good on oil but do not know a think about the pin distance and stuff like that.  I dont know  the difference.  Can you explain this to me so I cna understand and know what I am looking for in a ball.

Answer
Rob,
The dynamics of the core will create a strong flaring ball when the core is taller than wide and has big Differential Radius of Gyration or Diff numbers (.060 is max).

The lower the Radius of Gyration (RG) the more readily the ball wants to change direction (more angular, flip).

A strong combination of RG and Diff provides more hook but by evaluating what works well for you (and since you prefer arcy) the Diff numbers should be strong. Your speed and the lane condition effects what works best and influences surface adjustments.

What do you throw now? and what works best for you? Can you identify the Pin distance to your Positive Axis Point (PAP)? Strokers are not known for ball speed but you may be firm (for the condition, or how you play the lanes) and that causes your rev rate to not match up effectively.  

If you have a strong ball (like a Cell), setting it up strong (a leverage layout-Pin to Positive Axis of 3 3/8 to 3 1/2) will influence it to react sooner on the lane and provide maximum flare potential. Most current equipment rolls very early laid out as above (some stuff ROLLS OUT). Your driller needs to evaluate your speed, revs, lanes, etc. and suggest some choices. Hard to recommend when I can't see you bowl!!!

I strongly recommend when dealing with oil, I use surface to manage the front part of the lane (oily heads) and layout to compliment the bowler and create strong movement on the backend.

Thanks for the questions. Let me know what you throw.