Owning an Olhausen pool table is a statement of quality and a commitment to exceptional gameplay. However, even the most meticulously crafted slate requires regular attention to maintain optimal play conditions. Leveling your Olhausen pool table is not merely a matter of adjusting a few legs; it is a precise process that ensures the roll of the cue ball is predictable and fair. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step methodology for achieving a perfectly level playing surface, transforming your table into a consistent and reliable arena for skill and strategy.
The Critical Importance of a Level Playing Field
The integrity of every shot in pool and billiards hinges on the fundamental principle of a level table. A surface that is even by just a fraction of an inch can cause a ball to veer off its intended path, leading to missed shots and significant frustration. For an Olhausen table, which is designed for professional and high-level amateur play, maintaining this standard is non-negotiable. An unlevel table introduces variables that are impossible to compensate for, effectively nullifying the quality of the craftsmanship and the accuracy of the player. Understanding this principle is the first step in appreciating the necessity of this maintenance procedure.
Gathering the Essential Tools and Preparation
Before beginning the leveling process, preparation is key to ensuring efficiency and accuracy. You must assemble the correct tools to measure the table's status precisely. Standard bubble levels are insufficient for the precision required; you need a dedicated torpedo level for tight spaces and a robust 3-foot or 4-foot leveling ruler. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary tools to adjust the leveling feet, typically a wrench that matches the size of the leveling nut. Clear the playing surface of all balls and debris, and position your work area with ample light to read the measurements accurately throughout the entire process.
Step 1: The Initial Rough Level
The first phase involves establishing a general level across the table's length and width. Position the torpedo level on the surface of the table, primarily along the rails and key points of the bed. The objective here is to identify which legs require raising or lowering. If the bubble is significantly off-center, note the direction; if the bubble is to the right, the left side is too low, and vice versa. This initial assessment provides a roadmap for the more detailed adjustments that will follow, saving time and reducing the number of iterations required to achieve perfection.
Step 2: Precision Measurement with the Leveling Ruler
While the torpedo level offers a good indication, true accuracy is achieved using the leveling ruler. Place the ruler flat across the table, spanning from one rail to the opposite rail, ensuring it rests on the top of the cushions. Place your bubble level directly on the center of the ruler. The goal is to have the bubble perfectly centered, indicating that the height at both ends of the ruler is identical. Rotate the ruler 90 degrees to check the level across the width of the table. This cross-axis measurement is critical, as a table can be level from side to side but significantly off from front to back.
Adjusting the Leveling Feet System
Olhausen tables utilize a sophisticated system of adjustable feet, typically featuring a locking nut and an adjustable bolt. Once you have identified the low side using your measurements, locate the corresponding foot underneath the table. The adjustment principle is straightforward: turning the bolt clockwise will raise the table at that point, while turning it counterclockwise will lower it. The locking nut secures the bolt in place once the desired height is achieved. It is vital to make incremental adjustments—no more than a quarter turn at a time—and re-measure after each adjustment to monitor progress and prevent over-correction.
The Final Verification and Refinement
After making the necessary adjustments, you must conduct a final verification to confirm the table is completely level. Repeat the cross-ruler measurement process across the entire surface, checking at least four points: the center, the head, the foot, and the sides. The bubble on your level should remain perfectly centered at all locations. If a slight discrepancy persists, it might be necessary to adjust a neighboring foot to compensate, as the table's structure works as a connected system. This stage requires patience and a keen eye for detail to ensure the surface is flawless.
Maintaining Perfection: Environmental Considerations
Leveling an Olhausen pool table is not a one-time event but an ongoing maintenance task influenced by the environment. Houses settle over time, and seasonal changes in humidity can cause wood components to expand or contract, subtly shifting the table's position. It is recommended to re-check the table's level at least once every six months. Furthermore, avoid placing the table near windows, doors, or heating/cooling vents, as these can cause uneven expansion or vibration. By integrating leveling into your regular care routine, you protect your investment and guarantee that the table performs exactly as Olhausen intended, shot after shot.
