DIY Cue Tip Replacement: Six Easy Steps
Tip need replacing ahead of the big game? CueCases have your back with this handy five step tutorial.
Disaster strikes! You’ve just checked your tip and realised you’re in desperate need of a replacement ahead of that all-important game at the weekend. Fear not and consult our easy to follow step-by-step instructions.
#1 Remove the Old Tip
The first step to replacing your tired tip is removal of the old cue tip. For this you will require a sharp knife or razor blade. Taking the upmost of care (you’ll be needing those fingertips for your upcoming game) gently cut off the tip, getting as close to the ferrule (the metal cap located just under the tip) as possible. Carefully scrape off any remaining glue using your blade
#2 Get Sanding
Next, you need to ensure the end is smooth and clean by giving it a sand, 60 to 80 grit sandpaper is ideal here. Aim to get the surface as level as possible. It’s prudent to ensure the tip is clean and free of any remaining glue by wiping the end with a cloth dipped in nail varnish remover. The acetone will help to dissolve any lingering glue residue.
#3 Prepare
It’s now time to start preparations on your new tip. Grab the tip and place it flat side down on a piece of fine sandpaper (400 to 600 grit is optimal). Gently sand to create a rough surface for the adhesive to adhere to, ensuring it remains level. Then, sparingly apply tip cement or your adhesive of choice (superglue should do the job just fine).
#4 Apply the New Tip
Carefully line up your tip to the stick and apply a gentle pressure to remove any air pockets. Use a cloth or paper towel to remove any excess residue (doing a thorough job here will save you time and effort later on) and wait for around an hour to allow the glue to fully dry.
#5 Finish
Finally, when the glue is dry, grab a fine grit sandpaper and proceed to sand the edges of the tip to smooth and create your desired shape, ensuring the tip is the same diameter as the ferrule. Take this process slowly to ensure you don’t remove too much. A tip shaper can be used in the final stages to produce your shape of choice. Finish with just a touch of water on the tip (don’t get it too wet) and burnish the sides with a piece of leather to create a smooth finish that holds its shape.
With practice this process can become second nature, leaving you free to concentrate on the job in hand… potting those balls and defeating your opponents, fresh cue tip at the ready!
