Removing a putter shaft can be a necessary task for golfers who want to replace a worn-out grip, adjust the length of their putter, or install a new shaft altogether. While the process can seem daunting at first, it’s actually relatively straightforward with the right tools and techniques.
Tools Required
To remove a putter shaft, you will need the following tools:
- Heat gun or blow dryer
- Vice
- Putter shaft clamp or grip remover tool
- Wrench or pliers
- Solvent or rubbing alcohol
- Cloth or paper towel
Step-by-Step Guide
- Remove the grip – Using a grip remover tool or a utility knife, carefully cut or peel away the old grip. Be careful not to damage the shaft or any of the underlying materials.
- Heat the hosel – Using a heat gun or blow dryer, apply heat to the hosel of the putter. This will help to loosen any adhesive or epoxy holding the shaft in place. Be sure to heat evenly around the hosel for a few minutes until it’s hot to the touch.
- Secure the shaft – Once the hosel is heated, secure the putter shaft in a vice. Use a putter shaft clamp or a soft-jawed clamp to protect the shaft from damage.
- Loosen the shaft – Using a wrench or pliers, twist the shaft gently back and forth to break the adhesive bond. If the shaft still won’t budge, apply a small amount of solvent or rubbing alcohol to the joint to help loosen the adhesive.
- Remove the shaft – Once the adhesive bond has been broken, gently pull the shaft out of the hosel. Be careful not to twist or bend the shaft as you remove it.
- Clean the hosel – Use a cloth or paper towel to clean any remaining adhesive or debris from the hosel. You may need to use a solvent or rubbing alcohol to remove stubborn residue.
Precautions
Before attempting to remove a putter shaft, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure that you don’t damage your club or injure yourself. First, make sure that you’re working in a well-ventilated area and that you’re wearing gloves and eye protection. You should also be careful not to overheat the hosel or twist the shaft too forcefully, as this can cause damage or breakage.
Heating
the Hosel Heating the hosel is a crucial step in removing a putter shaft. To do this, you can use a heat gun or a blow dryer on the highest setting. Hold the heat source a few inches away from the hosel and move it around evenly to avoid overheating any one spot. The hosel should be heated for several minutes until it’s hot to the touch.
Securing the Shaft
Once the hosel is heated, you’ll need to secure the shaft in a vice or clamp. A putter shaft clamp is specifically designed for this task, but a soft-jawed clamp can also be used. Be sure to tighten the clamp securely to prevent any movement or damage to the shaft.
Loosening the Shaft
To loosen the shaft, you’ll need to twist it gently back and forth. Use a wrench or pliers to do this, but be careful not to apply too much force or twist too forcefully. If the shaft still won’t budge, you can apply a small amount of solvent or rubbing alcohol to the joint to help loosen the adhesive.
Removing the Shaft
Once the adhesive bond has been broken, you can remove the shaft from the hosel. Gently pull the shaft straight out of the hosel, being careful not to twist or bend it. If the shaft is stubborn, you can try twisting it slightly as you pull to help loosen it.
Cleaning the Hosel
After the shaft has been removed, you’ll need to clean the hosel to prepare it for a new shaft or grip. Use a cloth or paper towel to wipe away any remaining adhesive or debris. You can also use a solvent or rubbing alcohol to remove any stubborn residue.
Tools Required for Removing a Putter Shaft
| Tool | Description | Usage | Cost (approx.) | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heat gun | Electric tool that blows hot air | Softens the glue holding the shaft to head | $20 – $40 | Amazon, Home Depot |
| Putter wrench | A tool that tightens or loosens the hosel | Loosens the clubhead from the shaft | $15 – $25 | Golfsmith, Golf Galaxy |
| Rubber vise clamp | Rubberized clamp that holds the club | Protects the club from scratches | $10 – $15 | Dick’s Sporting Goods |
| Safety glasses | Protective glasses for eyes | Protects the eyes from flying debris | $5 – $15 | Walmart, Target |
| Utility knife | Sharp knife for cutting | Cuts grip and tape | $10 – $20 | Home Depot, Lowe’s |
Steps to Remove a Putter Shaft
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the grip using a utility knife, cutting from the top to the bottom of grip |
| 2 | Heat up the hosel using a heat gun for 30-60 seconds |
| 3 | Secure the putter in a rubber vise clamp |
| 4 | Attach the putter wrench to the hosel and turn it counterclockwise |
| 5 | Gently twist and pull the clubhead off the shaft |
| 6 | Clean off any residual glue or debris |
| 7 | Trim the shaft if needed and install a new grip |
Precautions to Take When Removing a Putter Shaft
| Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Wear safety glasses | Protects eyes from any flying debris from the putter shaft or clubhead |
| Keep heat gun away from hands or body | Prevents accidental burns from hot air |
| Use a rubber vise clamp | Prevents the club from getting scratched and also holds it securely in place |
| Don’t apply too much force | Prevents the club from getting damaged or the shaft getting snapped off |
| Be careful when using a utility knife | Avoid cutting too deep and damaging the shaft or yourself |
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing a Putter Shaft
| Mistake | Description |
|---|---|
| Not heating up the hosel enough | Makes it harder to remove the clubhead from the shaft |
| Applying too much force to the putter wrench | Can damage the hosel or the clubhead itself |
| Not using a rubber vise clamp | Can damage the clubhead or shaft or cause it to slip out of the hand |
| Not trimming the shaft correctly | Can cause problems with swing weight, length or stiffness |
| Not properly disposing of hazardous materials | Used heat gun, glue or other hazardous materials need to be disposed of properly as per local regulations |
Benefits of Removing a Putter Shaft
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Ability to customize | Allows the player to swap out the shaft and grip to fit their preferences |
| Repairing club | Allows the player to fix a broken or damaged shaft or clubhead |
| Saving money | Allows the player to re-use an existing clubhead instead of buying new |
Conclusion
Removing a putter shaft may seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done relatively easily. By following these steps, you can remove your putter shaft without damaging your club or your new grip. Remember to take your time and be gentle with your equipment. Good luck!
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