Taking apart an Olhausen pool table might seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance, it becomes a manageable project for any dedicated owner. Whether you are relocating to a new home, conducting extensive maintenance, or simply need to access the slate for repairs, understanding the proper disassembly process is essential. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to ensure you handle this valuable piece of equipment with care, protecting its integrity and ensuring a smooth reassembly.
Preparing for Disassembly
Before you remove a single bolt, preparation is the most critical phase of the process. An Olhausen table is a heavy investment, and rushing this step can lead to damage or injury. You will need a spacious, flat area to work in, ideally the room where the table will eventually be reassembled. Gather your tools, which typically include a professional socket set, a sturdy Allen wrench set, a tape measure, moving blankets, and heavy-duty moving straps. Clearing the area of all furniture and ensuring a clean workspace will prevent scratches and streamline the entire operation.
Removing the Pockets and Rails
The initial phase of disassembly focuses on the table’s visible components, starting with the rails and pockets. These parts are often interlocked and secured with bolts hidden beneath the felt. Using the appropriate socket wrench, carefully loosen these bolts. It is advisable to number or label each rail and pocket as you remove them to ensure the rebuild matches the original factory configuration. This meticulous approach preserves the precise leveling and bounce characteristics that define an Olhausen playing experience.
Detaching the Slate
Arguably the most delicate step involves separating the slate from the frame. The slate is the heavy, dense stone core that provides the smooth playing surface, and it is the most fragile part of the move. You must remove the bolts that anchor the slate to the frame slowly and evenly. As you loosen each bolt, support the slate incrementally to prevent it from cracking under its own weight. If the table has multiple slate pieces, handle each one with extreme care, as they are heavy and difficult to reposition without specialized equipment.
Handling the Frame and Structure
Once the slate is free, the structural frame of the table can be addressed. This usually involves removing bolts that connect the legs to the main body and detaching any center rails that provide structural support. Because the frame is still substantial in weight, a two-person lift is strongly recommended. At this stage, you should wrap the individual components tightly in moving blankets and secure them with stretch wrap to prevent dents, scratches, and hardware loss during transport.
Transportation and Storage
Moving an Olhausen table requires more than just a truck; it requires strategy. Never lay the table flat on its side, as this can severely warp the frame or distort the slate if any weight pressure is applied. If possible, transport the table upright, with the slate facing the cab of the vehicle to minimize shifting. If upright transport is impossible, the slate must be placed flat on the floor of the vehicle, with the heaviest wood components oriented to balance the load properly.
Reassembly Considerations
Disassembly is only half the battle; reassembly requires the same level of precision. Upon arrival at the destination, reverse the process carefully. Place the slate securely in the frame, ensuring it is level before tightening the mounting bolts. Then, reattach the rails and pockets, verifying that the spacing and alignment are correct before re-stretching the billiard cloth. Patience is the key to success; taking the time to align each component correctly will guarantee that your Olhausen table functions like new.
