Removing the old shaft?

[mazzamouth]

I couldnt find it but.... how in the heck do you get the old shaft out of a driver head? I have a driver that the shaft broke and i would like to practice putting in a new one. Is there a certain type of solution you use?

[dannyra]

Re: Removing the old shaft?

The best way is to use a heat gun. If in a pinch, you can use a small propane torch but keep your distance with it, so you don't overheat the head and degrade it.

[LowPost42]

Re: Removing the old shaft?

Yikes... you picked about the toughest project to enter into clubmaking!

I'm going to make a few assumptions here:

I'm going to assume that there's some shaft sticking out of the hosel (1" or better).

I'm goint to assume it's a graphite shaft.

I'm going to assume you do NOT have a shaft puller.

Now, that said:

Danny has pointed to the two main heat sources - a gun and a torch. The latter is faster, but can also ruin a paint job in a hurry if you're not careful. The rule with heat is to keep it moving, regardless of the source.

Anyway, if you have some shaft sticking out:

Let's also assume you have a vise. If not, a pair of pliers or vise grips will have to do.

Put the shaft in the vise. Tight. It's already broken, remember? However, if it's graphite, you may have to find the fine line between tight and crushed. It may be tough to get the head off if you're just tugging on graphite fibers.

Hit the hosel with the heat. Be generous - the shaft is already broken. Just don't scorch the paint job - nobody likes an ugly club.

Eventually you should hear a pop or sizzle sound - this is the epoxy letting go. At this point, using a gloved hand, pull the head off the shaft. (If you don't have a vise, hold the shaft with pliers or vise grips).

Now is a great time to clean out the old epoxy from the head. A drill bit works here (do the math, the hosel is 0.335" in diameter). Dremel sanding mandrels work too.

Please keep in mind the head will be hot. By reading this you waive all rights to sue. Proceed at your own risk, your mileage may vary.

[mazzamouth]

Re: Removing the old shaft?

Thanks Lowpost... yes the shaft is broke but up at the top and not down by the bottom. I dont have a shaft puller so i will try something else. Thanks for all the Info. Mike