Expert: Chip Aki - 8/18/2009

Question
i want to know the best way to determine where the balance hole goes on a ball to balance it. if your over in weight top/side etc. how do you know where and what size hole to use?

Answer
If a current ball is in need of correction, the extra hole has to be placed in the area of the problem.  As an example, if there is too much right side weight, the hole would have to be place on the right side of the ball.   This is pretty much the same formula when placind an extra hole due to a layout choice.  When placing the extra hole on the side of the ball, you can affect the reaction based on where you place it.  If you place the hole on your axis, the balls flare potential can be tamed down a bit.  If you place the hole past your axis, the balls flare potential can be enhanced.  These adjustments can make the ball go into a roll later or sooner.
The important factor in extra hole placement is to try and keep the ball from tracking over the extra hole.  When correcting a previously drilled ball, or a new ball with a high flaring layout, is not always possible.  In that instance, use the smallest hole possible to bring the ball back to legel specifications.

All of the bowling ball websites have information on hole placement when drilling a new ball.  This information will also give you some ideas on where an extra hole would need to be placed when making ball corrections.

At most, you are going to be able to change the balls weight and/or balance by 1 to 2 ounces.

Good luck,
Chip