Expert: Chip Aki - 2/27/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I have a Track Animal ball that I would like to get more of a hook out of. I throw pretty straight but get some reaction at the end with my current layout, which I thought would allow a more aggressive hook. It hasn't worked that way. I would like to get more of a banana-shaped arc out of it. It is currently drilled for axis leverage, with the pin just to the right of the ring finger and the balance hole 3 and 3/8" to the right of the pin. I was wondering if the 12:00 leverage drilling pattern would work better for what I am trying to accomplish, moving the balance hole down about as low as the thumb hole on the same vertical axis line that it is now on.
Answer -
Axis leverage should produce an early roll and calm breakpoint.  IF you go with the rev-leverage type of layout, you may get a bit more arc and hook, but may not be a big enough gain to put that much plug and money into the ball.  

Try sanding the ball a bit before you consider plugging.

Good luck,
Chip
Hey Chip- thanks for the tip about sanding my bowling ball. I was thinking about doing that. What finish would u recomend on my track animal ball, and i was also wondering how you sand a ball? Do u have to have professionally done or can u do it yourself? If you could also give me a ballpark prise on sanding a ball that would be great also. -Thanks-
-Lucas

Answer
You can sand a ball by hand.  I would start with a 400 grit wet/dry sandpaper and if you want a bit more bite you can go to a 320 wet/dry sandpaper.  You can also use a green or burgandy scotch brite pad.
Just use a circular motion and a spray bottle of water to control the dust.
At my pro shop, I charge $5.00 to do this on my ball spinner.  By using a spinner, you can sand the ball according to the ball track and the sand lines to affect the reaction.  For the most hook, locate the bowtie of you flare pattern, and place that at the top of the ball in the spinner and sand.  Then flip the ball 180 degrees, and sand again.

Good luck,
Chip