List of rackets that can be capped/ capping guide

well because i got used to it it got easier for me
the firs time was pretty hard, the fourth time SO much easier
and @catpower i would say iprestige ones are the hardest ones to install
 
What about the Prestige Team? Think it had a 102 sq in head.

the prestige team caps are 660 and can only be used in the radical Team 660, the MG5000 (i think its this one), the satellite tour and the classic tour 660 and eventually other 660 frames!

it's very simple really.. people keep asking the same questions over and over...

Tipically (notice that i said tipically)

there is 600, 630, 660 and 690...

everytime there is a radical and a prestige that size, it must fit!


there is no 600 rad and no 690 prestige...
 
Just got done capping few of my old Head 89.5 sq in racquets (Club Pros, Comp Pros). The best way to heat up these cap grommet is to put them in the dryer for couple of minutes and it became nice and soft. I found this out by accident while I was capping these racquet and doing laundry in my garage:). It took me less than 5 mins to cap one of my racquet.
 
Anyone here successfully capped the Head Club/Comp master with flexpoint team cap grommet? It has 102 sq in and 18x19 string patterns. Also would Head Prestige midplus (102 sq in) grommet fits? Thanks
 
Bumping the thread and all, but I'm having a problem capping my radical mp. The problem I am having is that the top grommet on each side of the frame won't go into the hole all the way, as if something is blocking them, even though the hole is free of anything that might block it. Do any of you have any advice as to how to get the top two grommets in? I have never had this porblem before, infact this is the 4th racket I have capped, and the first one that I have had any problems with. Could it just be a bad grommet set? Thanks in advance...
 
Bumping the thread and all, but I'm having a problem capping my radical mp. The problem I am having is that the top grommet on each side of the frame won't go into the hole all the way, as if something is blocking them, even though the hole is free of anything that might block it. Do any of you have any advice as to how to get the top two grommets in? I have never had this porblem before, infact this is the 4th racket I have capped, and the first one that I have had any problems with. Could it just be a bad grommet set? Thanks in advance...

What method did you use to heat and soften the grommets up? I think with tough holes u have to use a lighter and an awl...
 
Bumping the thread and all, but I'm having a problem capping my radical mp. The problem I am having is that the top grommet on each side of the frame won't go into the hole all the way, as if something is blocking them, even though the hole is free of anything that might block it. Do any of you have any advice as to how to get the top two grommets in? I have never had this porblem before, infact this is the 4th racket I have capped, and the first one that I have had any problems with. Could it just be a bad grommet set? Thanks in advance...

Check the hole size in the frame and then check the corresponding grommet nib diameter. Sometimes, it's necessary to enlarge the frame hole just a bit using a Dremel. Once completed, the grommet strip will usually slip right into place.
 
Check the hole size in the frame and then check the corresponding grommet nib diameter. Sometimes, it's necessary to enlarge the frame hole just a bit using a Dremel. Once completed, the grommet strip will usually slip right into place.

Well, it was the very top grommet on each size, and they appeared to be the perfect size to fit into the frame, but they won't go all the way through, they sit there halfway in...
 
I must be an idiot, because I'm just not clear on why this is such a big deal. Why is capping so important? Do you guys really think it makes that much difference? And why? If having a racquet capped changes things radically, why don't more players do it? This all seems like some kind of esoteric nonsense to me.
 
I must be an idiot, because I'm just not clear on why this is such a big deal. Why is capping so important? Do you guys really think it makes that much difference? And why? If having a racquet capped changes things radically, why don't more players do it? This all seems like some kind of esoteric nonsense to me.

Think of it like adding lead around the entire hoop of the frame, without adding too much weight. It increases stability, looks nice, if done correctly, and, in theory stiffens up the head by a few points...
 
Think of it like adding lead around the entire hoop of the frame, without adding too much weight. It increases stability, looks nice, if done correctly, and, in theory stiffens up the head by a few points...
OK, I can understand the weight aspect - but there are myriad ways of accomplishing the same thing without going to the lengths mentioned here, aren't there? You could put lead tape under the bumper guard, for example, though I guess that doesn't add the weight all the way around the head. I don't see the aesthetic part of the equation being that significant, but, if you're a constant tinkerer who wants to have a stick that is unique, I'm sure that matters. The stiffness bit, though, seems a trifle far-fetched. But I suppose if you believe it works, then it does. ;) Still, thanks for the explanation.
 
I must be an idiot, because I'm just not clear on why this is such a big deal. Why is capping so important? Do you guys really think it makes that much difference? And why? If having a racquet capped changes things radically, why don't more players do it? This all seems like some kind of esoteric nonsense to me.

People like it so get over it.

Well, it was the very top grommet on each size, and they appeared to be the perfect size to fit into the frame, but they won't go all the way through, they sit there halfway in...

Do you mean the very last frame hole at 12 o'clock on each side? Post a pic.

Again, it sound like the last frame hole (on both sides) may be a bit too small for that last grommet nib. If you can, also pull the grommet strip out of the last 4-5 holes and post a pic.

Which Prestige CAP grommet set are you using (Microgel, iPrestige, Youtek, LM, etc.)?
 
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People like it so get over it.



Do you mean the very last frame hole at 12 o'clock on each side? Post a pic.

Again, it sound like the last frame hole (on both sides) may be a bit too small for that last grommet nib. If you can, also pull the grommet strip out of the last 4-5 holes and post a pic.

Which Prestige CAP grommet set are you using (Microgel, iPrestige, Youtek, LM, etc.)?

I'm using the MicroGel/Youtek grommets, and yes, I mean the last nib in each side at 12 o'clock, I'll post a pic if I can't fit it within the next day or so...
 
Check the hole size in the frame and then check the corresponding grommet nib diameter. Sometimes, it's necessary to enlarge the frame hole just a bit using a Dremel. Once completed, the grommet strip will usually slip right into place.

seems kinda scary, but if you say you've done it with success good on ya.

i almost wonder if it would better to shave some of the grommet tube down just a hair (on the non-loadbearing side, mostly of course).

maybe just a good sharp drillbit would be best?

anyhow, good luck with the battle, OP!
 
seems kinda scary, but if you say you've done it with success good on ya.

i almost wonder if it would better to shave some of the grommet tube down just a hair (on the non-loadbearing side, mostly of course).

maybe just a good sharp drillbit would be best?

anyhow, good luck with the battle, OP!

Yes, I've done it and the Dremel (with the proper bit) works the best :)

It seems the frame hole is just a hair too small for the grommet nib. It happens as sometimes the frames (from newer models) have slightly different sized frame holes in various locations.
 
Yes, I've done it and the Dremel (with the proper bit) works the best :)

It seems the frame hole is just a hair too small for the grommet nib. It happens as sometimes the frames (from newer models) have slightly different sized frame holes in various locations.

so do you generally just have to open the outer side of the hole? or all the way through?
 
In the immortal words of Sgt. Hulka, "Lighten up, Francis." All I did was ask a question - no need to get snippy.

I must be an idiot, because I'm just not clear on why this is such a big deal. Why is capping so important? Do you guys really think it makes that much difference? And why? If having a racquet capped changes things radically, why don't more players do it? This all seems like some kind of esoteric nonsense to me.

Was responding more toward the attitude than the question :)
 
Was responding more toward the attitude than the question :)
I didn't say I was right to feel that way - just that the importance of all this was/is lost on me. I was yearning for an explanation, and, instead, I get cheek. I should have known better. ;) (I did get my explanation in the end. It still all seems a trifle silly to me, though - like debating about adding lead tape to a vibration damper, or the advantages gained by using 18-gauge monofilament nylon on the top and bottom cross strings only. If you think it makes a difference, good for you. I kinda doubt it does, but that's just me. So I guess you were right about my attitude after all, eh?)
 
Don't ask dumb questions full of unfounded opnion then.
How do you know my opinion is unfounded? And I don't think the question was "dumb" at all. Can you prove that the caps make a difference in how your frames play? Legitimately? If not, your opinion is just as "unfounded" as mine. I had several Kneissls with the spoiler thing, which covered up the stringing groove, and having that piece on there made not one identifiable bit of difference in how the frame played. None. If it works for you, great. More power to you. Obviously, you're not alone. Enjoy your hours laboring over a hot glue gun and a smoking Dremel; I'll be on court, playing.
 
I didn't say I was right to feel that way - just that the importance of all this was/is lost on me. I was yearning for an explanation, and, instead, I get cheek. I should have known better. ;) (I did get my explanation in the end. It still all seems a trifle silly to me, though - like debating about adding lead tape to a vibration damper, or the advantages gained by using 18-gauge monofilament nylon on the top and bottom cross strings only. If you think it makes a difference, good for you. I kinda doubt it does, but that's just me. So I guess you were right about my attitude after all, eh?)

You know they say about opinions... :)
 
How do you know my opinion is unfounded? And I don't think the question was "dumb" at all. Can you prove that the caps make a difference in how your frames play? Legitimately? If not, your opinion is just as "unfounded" as mine. I had several Kneissls with the spoiler thing, which covered up the stringing groove, and having that piece on there made not one identifiable bit of difference in how the frame played. None. If it works for you, great. More power to you. Obviously, you're not alone. Enjoy your hours laboring over a hot glue gun and a smoking Dremel; I'll be on court, playing.

I happen to like the way the cap adds eveny distributed weight. Like the way they look capped too, kinda cool....super cool pro like.

I have Head Radicals that are uncapped as well and are leaded up instead to add the weight. Like you say they play good too with the lead, probably just as good.

Bottom line IMHO with all sports eqpt is if the user thinks they have a magic wand then they do. It instills confidence and belief in the mind of the user that all opponents will be vanquished by the magic wand. This might be more true in tennis than any other sport because it is just you vs. the evil creature on the other side of the net.....we all need a magic wand to have the advantage.

Kinda the open heart, clear eyes can't loose mentality.
 
How do you know my opinion is unfounded? And I don't think the question was "dumb" at all. Can you prove that the caps make a difference in how your frames play? Legitimately? If not, your opinion is just as "unfounded" as mine. I had several Kneissls with the spoiler thing, which covered up the stringing groove, and having that piece on there made not one identifiable bit of difference in how the frame played. None. If it works for you, great. More power to you. Obviously, you're not alone. Enjoy your hours laboring over a hot glue gun and a smoking Dremel; I'll be on court, playing.

Yes, weight, stiffness, balance. It protects the head of the frame. Looks good, but who cares? Go post in a thread that has subject matter you care about instead of posting your ignorance in threads with subject matter you clealy don't understand or care about.
 
Yes, weight, stiffness, balance. It protects the head of the frame. Looks good, but who cares? Go post in a thread that has subject matter you care about instead of posting your ignorance in threads with subject matter you clealy don't understand or care about.
Gee whiz. I was genuinely interested in a legitimate explanation of this whole capping thing, despite my skepticism about it - and I get you telling me to go away. Yes, I am ignorant about how capping really can affect a frame - hence my question. If I wasn't curious, I wouldn't have bothered to ask. As for your comments, weight and balance can be changed by adding lead weight - which seems a lot easier than doing what you guys are talking about. The stiffness thing seems like it would be negligible to me. But I was looking for someone to give me some substance, not just "It really does make a difference, and you're a moron if you don't understand that." If you think I'm just looking to be disruptive, you are very wrong. But you look like you just want to pick a fight, so maybe I'll just gve up on asking.
 
I happen to like the way the cap adds eveny distributed weight. Like the way they look capped too, kinda cool....super cool pro like.

I have Head Radicals that are uncapped as well and are leaded up instead to add the weight. Like you say they play good too with the lead, probably just as good.

Bottom line IMHO with all sports eqpt is if the user thinks they have a magic wand then they do. It instills confidence and belief in the mind of the user that all opponents will be vanquished by the magic wand. This might be more true in tennis than any other sport because it is just you vs. the evil creature on the other side of the net.....we all need a magic wand to have the advantage.

Kinda the open heart, clear eyes can't loose mentality.
Thanks for an actual response to my query, without all the hostility. I appreciate your honesty about the "magic wand" aspect, because I think the individual nature of tennis makes us all susceptible to that kind of thinking. (And the fact that it looks cool does matter, at least psychologically, as is evidenced by all the threads on here about paint jobs and frame graphics.)
 
Quick Primer for Installing CAP Grommets

A TT member emailed me, earlier, asking for advice on CAP grommet installation. Perhaps, it may help someone else out (and I won't have to sort through tons of old email if asked the question in the future) :)

- - - - -

[FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif][FONT=Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif]The first thing to do is look at the little plastic nibs (protrusions) on the CAP grommet strip. You'll notice that some of them are a bit larger in diameter than others. These are usually tie off hole locations (for stringing) or starting knot locations. The Prestige tie off locations may be different than the Radicals.

Now, when you've located the larger nibs on the grommet strip, compare the corresponding frame hole to make sure it will accommodate the nib. You may need to very slightly enlarge some of the frame holes (or you may not). When the frame hole is too small for the grommet strip 'nib', that's where the difficulty begins.

The LM Radical was notorious for being very difficult to install CAP grommets, as the frame holes were too small for certain Prestige CAP grommet nibs. The frame holes on the Radical simply needed to be enlarged (diameter), slightly. If you must do this, use a Dremel tool.

So, starting at the bottom of the frame near the throat, begin installing the grommet strip. Gently use a stringing awl (preferably with a dull tip) to guide the grommet strip into the frame holes. Continue this until you reach the top of the frame. It helps to have a few stringing awls handy as the grommet strip has a tendency to 'pop' back out of the frame. If you leave the awl in place, the grommet strip will stay in place. As you move closer toward the top of the head, you can usually remove the awls closer to the throat without an issue.
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I must be an idiot, because I'm just not clear on why this is such a big deal. Why is capping so important? Do you guys really think it makes that much difference? And why? If having a racquet capped changes things radically, why don't more players do it? This all seems like some kind of esoteric nonsense to me.

Sounds like opinions not questions to me.
 
They are questions. Hence the question marks at the end. Yeah, I'm skeptical. But I'm asking because I want to have someone prove my skepticism wrong. Why be so hostile?

It was you who appeared hostile and judgmental, initially. We were simply responding to that perceived hostility.

Some think that CAPping the Radical makes the SW too high. I disagree. With a leather grip and CAP grommets the Radical weighs right around 12.2 oz and 4-5 pts. HL. with increased head stability. It's an (even more) excellent frame once modified slightly.
 
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I should have known that I was walking into a hornet's nest by questioning the efficacy of such delicate customization. I was trying to have a bit of fun with the whole thing, throwing the gauntlet down as it were, but I didn't anticipate just how seriously you guys take all this stuff. My mistake. I'll just go away now - still not really getting it, but happy to let y'all have fun. Sorry for the intrusion.
 
here is a pic of an uncapped and a capped liquidmetal radical, you can see that the grommets end in relatively the same place, the microgel grommets are just a few millimeters longer (yes millimeters)
IMG_1547.jpg


here is a pic of the grommet strips ending for i.prestige grommets, FXP prestige grommets (the non shiny orange one), and microgel grommets, the i.prestige and microgel grommets are both on liquidmetal radicals, and the FXP prestige grommets are on a FXP radical
IMG_1545.jpg


here is a pic of the sides of the rackets, note they are not all lined up
IMG_1544.jpg

To the OP.

So the racquet on top of the last pic uses i.prestige caps right?
I've searched through TW site to find these, and there was this one:
"Head Intelligence i.Prestige XL Mid+ Grommet"
Is that the one?

Thanks.
 
Hi! Sorry is some of my questions seem noobish, but I just want to have the things clear so that I won't have to ask these things many times.

1. If I tried to take off the old grommets, are they attached to the frame with some kind of glue of something, or they are just attached to the holes fitting them?
2. When taking off the grommets, do I just take them out just like this, I mean, just grab them with the fingers and pull them out?
3. As for putting the grommets, is just fitting them into the holes enough to fix the grommet in its place?
4. and specifically for DANTESPARK33 AND THE ONE WHO PUT THE CAPS ON THE Tfight. I want to CAP the Diablo mid, for it has the same head size. The thing is, I know the string pattern doesn't fit, but the Diablo has two mains less, so could I use as a solution just cutting off one hole at each end of the CAP so they would fit into the 16 by 20 pattern? But notice, when I say on each end, it might be in the 12 oklock area and it could be in the throat area. Do you think it would be viable.
Thanks a lot in advance.
 
Guys, if you think that it is not possible, just say it so plz, and if you have reasons for that - even better, but tell me something about it at least.
Thnks.
 
Ok short answers -

1. Just attached to the holes no glue etc
2. Yep grab them and pull them out
3. start from the bottom put them in the holes and work up
4. i've personally never tried putting CAPs into anything other than a prestige or a radical but because the string patterns don't match up i would say no
 
But what about that guy in this thread who managed to CAP a tfight, I sincerely doubt it has the same pattern as the prestige, so there gotta be some way to cap other raquets, only that I don't know how...
 
Sorry for the double post. Just wanted to mention that if I had access to some CAP grommets I would experiment or at least take a good look at how it could be sorted out, but here in Bishkek there is no chance of finding any grommets, only ordering them from TW, but it would be too much money for me for just an experiment.
 
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