JET Method for stringing on a CP with fixed clamps
At the GSS symposium last Oct JayCee actually strung 4 racquets using the JET method on different machine types (a lockout, drop weight, LCP and Stringway). With slightly different tweeks to the technique for the LO machine he got the exact same results in each frame. So, the technique works in all machines as long as you know what you are doing.
Cheers, TennezSport
Hi Larry,
Here it is in a nut-shell, detailled instructions for the type of machine that is used by most of the stringers in tennis shops and Pro-shops.
As you rightly say "the technique works in all machines as long as you know what you are doing" - with the following instructions, it should be easier to learn how to do it.
To make the most of it, stringers can join us at the GSS Symposium, late September this year in Saddlebrook, Tampa, FL.
Cheers mate,
JB
This presentation of the JET Method for a CP electronic machine with fixed-clamps, has just been posted on the GGTennis Blog. There's more to this way of stringing than just lowering the tensions to less than 50lbs. the overall approach to stringing a racquet is fundamentally quite different from the most frequently used methods of stringing mono-filament and hybrid strings.
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JET Method - your Online Guide to How and Why?
Many of our blog followers are likely aware that Tennis Warehouse has picked up L-TEC Premium strings to make available to internet customers. The purpose of today’s blog entry is to give those who are purchasing L-TEC Premium strings online the means to string them so that they can achieve the best possible results. Toward this end we are proud to present the JET Method of stringing for constant pull stringing machines using fixed clamps.
OVERVIEW :
The JET Method of stringing combined with L-TEC Premium strings provide players with an equipment advantage delivering the best possible on-court results.
There are 3 major components of the method that should be implemented in unison to achieve optimal results.
- Analyzing and calculating the player’s ideal string bed tension.
- Choosing the best L-TEC Premium string(s) to improve the player’s game.
- Applying the exact set tensions and the JET Method of stringing to achieve the precise overall string-bed tension required by the player.
There is a very precise methodology and tools that allow the stringer to string at lower tensions. The stringing technique/method preserves the elasticity of the string and ultimately allows the string bed to hold the desirable playing properties for an extended period of time.
REFERENCE TENSION :
Twenty-four hours after stringing a racquet the overall string-bed tension will measure from -4lbs to -6lbs lower than the tension that was originally set on the machine.
After 1 hour of play there will be a further loss of tension of at least -2lbs.
The JET Method of stringing progressively increases the overall string-bed tension up to 3lbs higher than the SET Tension on the machine for a 16*19 string pattern and up to 5lbs higher for a 18*20 string-pattern.
Therefore, to obtain a similar overall string-bed tension when using the JET Method, the Reference SET tension should be reduced from -7lbs to -10lbs depending on the machine and the string-pattern. The Reference SET Tension on the machine is much lower, but the feeling of stiffness in the string-bed will be quite comparable. The vastly improved comfort, power, control and spin, as well as the capacity to hold tension and maintain an initial playability for much longer than usual stringing methods, are the most evident advantages of the JET Method of stringing.
RACQUET PREPARATION :
If necessary, carefully use an awl to enlargen the grommet holes on #6 main (16 main pattern) or #7 main (18 main pattern) for tie-off. (This will be either top or bottom depending on where main strings end.)
Enlargen the grommet hole on the third cross from bottom of frame for tie-off. (Depending on pattern, this can sometimes vary. The objective is to tie-off as close to the 2nd to last cross as possible).
MAIN STRINGS :
- String first four center mains on each side at reference tension.
- Next 2 (on 16 mains) or 3 (on 18 mains) reduce tension by -4lbs.
- On a 16 main pattern after pulling main #6 skip over to #8. Increase tension +4lbs (to reference tension) before tensioning. (#8 will be pulled at reference tension). On an 18 main pattern after pulling #7 skip over to #9. Increase tension +4lbs before tensioning.
- Fill-in main #7 (on a 16 main or #8 on an 18 main) which will be the last main. Adjust tension by adding an additional 4lbs (reference tension +4lbs.)
- Tie off on main #6 (16 mains) or #7 (18 mains).
CROSS STRINGS :
- IMPORTANT: Each cross string must be held under tension at least 20 seconds before clamping off. We recommend weaving the next cross while the previous one remains under tension.
- Start first three cross strings at same tension applied to the last main string tensionned before tie-off on each side. (+4lbs over the reference tension)
- After installing 3rd cross string, reduce tension -6lbs and install the rest of the cross strings (This will be reference tension –2lbs)
- After stringing 3rd last cross, loop over and weave final cross. Increase tension +6lbs.
- For last cross string fill in second from bottom. Tie off on 3rd cross from the bottom.
Always give professional finish by straightening strings using The String Thing!
Some points to keep in mind :
- This presentation of the JET Method is intended for stringers using an electronic constant pull stringing machine with fixed clamps.
- In the quest for stringing perfection, this is not the ideal stringing machine. However, by using the JET Method conscientiously the results can be remarkably good.
- If you have the choice of pulling speeds, always select the slowest.
- Wait 5 seconds before clamping off each main and a minimum of 20 seconds before clamping each of the crosses. (weave in the following cross whilst the previous cross is being tensionned, this can save a lot of time).
- To become a competant stringer capable of giving top quality string-jobs when applying the JET Method requires many hours to learn and to practice this craft. It is necessary to control the results obtained string by string with a Stringmeter to understand where you are losing tension and where you need to improve your techniques to overcome these weaknesses in your way of working.
- To aim for the end results on the court for your player requires strong motivation and real passion for your profession. Without your will to improve as a stringer and the capacity to put into question your habits in the way you have been stringing for years, you will not be able to acquire the efficiency in this craft necessary to obtain JET Method Certification. You may well improve your results for your players and that would be a very good start, it may even encourage you to continue to learn to become a much better stringer, even a craftsman. Now it's up to you!
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