Instructions for Bumpers on a Pool Table

Remove the old bumper by prying it from the rail, or side of the pool table, with a flat-head screwdriver. Remember that the bumper is glued to the rail, so be careful not to damage the wood on the pool table.

Sand any dried glue on the wooden rail with a piece of sandpaper. Also sand the rubber side of the new bumper to remove any mold release residue.

Pour a little lacquer thinner or ketone on a clean towel. Rub the towel on the rail to remove any remaining debris.

Place the new pool table bumper along the rail and test-fit it. The distance between the bottom of the bumper and the pool table slate should be 1 7/16 inches if using a regulation 2.25-inch diameter ball. If using a non-regulation ball, multiple the diameter of the ball by 63 percent. The result is the correct nose height for the bumper.

Apply contact adhesive to the back of the rubber bumper and to the wood surface on the pool table.

Align the top edge of the bumper to the top edge of the rail. Eye it to verify that it is straight and contains no waves.

Press the bumper to the rail and hold it in place for a few seconds to allow the glue to stick. Let the bumper sit overnight.

Trim away excess rubber on the bumper with a utility knife or other trim tool. You want the bumper to be flush with the flat end of the rail.

Apply adhesive to the ends of the rubber bumpers again and hold them to the rail for a few seconds.

Apply adhesive to the bumper facings, or felt. Stick the bumper facings to the bumpers.