View Full Version : I don't get it? Polishing a ball gives traction on the back in?
MICHAEL
04-28-2012, 11:21 AM
I talke to the pro the other day about polishing and waxing the ball. It seems to me if you wax a ball, the wax would fill in the groves in the ball that cause traction. Sorta like a snow tire with the treads full of mud/snow? How does the wax, when polishing not casue the same issue? I would think it would be better to have a very clean ball without the wax in order to get the traction you want past the oil area?? I know these are probably stupid questions, just would like to know how it works.
bowl1820
04-28-2012, 12:49 PM
I talke to the pro the other day about polishing and waxing the ball. It seems to me if you wax a ball, the wax would fill in the groves in the ball that cause traction. Sorta like a snow tire with the treads full of mud/snow? How does the wax, when polishing not casue the same issue? I would think it would be better to have a very clean ball without the wax in order to get the traction you want past the oil area?? I know these are probably stupid questions, just would like to know how it works.
Coverstock texture changes are a important part of bowling. To help match up ball with conditions.
As a rule of thumb
coarser sanding makes a ball hook less, but earlier. (it smooths out the reaction)
smoother surfaces hook later and harder. (because of retaining more energy and revolutions)
of coarse this depends on the conditions at the time.
When you polish a ball, your basically wanting it to skid farther.( make the tire tread not grip as much in the oil.). By doing this the ball also retains more energy and rev's for hooking down the lane.
Also the ball will travel that extra 6" to 1 foot further out of the oil before turning to the pocket
Think of it like when a car starts hydroplaning on a wet road. The tires are spinning and your sliding down the road, then BAM! your tires hit dry and off you go.
Polishes are not really waxes, some are compounds with a grit component which alter the grit on the ball. Others are like fill in glazes (for lack of a better term), which will leave the underlying grit and there are variations in between.
MICHAEL
04-28-2012, 03:16 PM
thanks again for the answers! Cover stock sure has changed in the last 40 years. I have played golf for many years, but now I could care less!!!! I have bowling feaver!!!
And I don't want a cure!! I have had some good games and almost a 300 last June 298!! I think the last time I was that excited was on my wedding night!!
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