Replacing your golf grips can be expensive, especially if you go to the big box retails such as Dick’s Sporting Goods or Golf Galaxy. Regripping worn golf grips at home is a great way to keep costs low. However, a DIY regripping project only save money in the long run if you do it correctly. Golfers are best to not cut corners while regripping their clubs to save a few dollars.
The thriftiest of golfers may try to save by using golf grip solvent alternatives such as paint thinner, but is that a good idea? Everyone wants to save money but sometimes cutting costs can cost you more in the end. On the other hand, there are budget friendly alternatives to grip solvents
In the article below, we are going to cover all you need to know about regripping golf grip with paint thinner. We will look at if paint thinner is a practical alternative to grip solvent, how to use paint thinner to regrip, as well as everything else you need to know. We have a lot to cover so let’s get started!
Should You Use Paint Thinner To Install Golf Grips?
Standard golf grip solvent works in two ways. It lubricates the golf grip and golf grip tape for installation. It also helps the newly installed golf grip adhere to the golf club.
Grip solvent is excellent in performing both these tasks but it’s not the only tool for the job. While we would always recommend using golf grip solvent as our first option, you can absolutely use paint thinner to install your golf grips.
Traditional golf grip solvent’s main ingredient is Naptha. Naptha is a hydrocarbon mixture that is also an ingredient in paint thinner which makes paint thinner a great alternative golf grip solution.
Golf grip solvent does offer some distinct advantages over paint thinner. Grip solvent is specifically designed for regripping clubs. It is non-flammable and nontoxic. Paint thinner is a great golf grip solvent substitute but make sure you are in an open space to avoid exposure to excess fumes or open flames.
For those looking to save, we would suggest not skimping on golf grip solvent. Instead, there are plenty of budget friendly golf grips that you can buy that are high quality while not breaking the bank.
Wedge Guys Golf Grip Kits
The Wedge Guys Golf Grip Kit is your all-in-one solution for easy golf regripping. Complete with everything you need, this kit offers a seamless DIY experience. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned golfer, this kit has everything you need to regrip your clubs at an affordable price. Don’t skimp on golf grip solvent when there are better value options available!
How To Install Golf Grips With Paint Thinner
Installing golf grips with paint thinner is virtually identical to installing with golf grip solvent. Follow the instructions below for a detailed, step-by-step guide.
What You Will Need
- New Golf Grip
- Double Sized Golf Grip Tape
- Utility Knife
- Paint Thinner
- Bucket
- Cloth For Drying
- Mask for fumes
Step By Step Instructions
- Remove your old grip from the clubs you wish to regrip. Use a utility knife or scissors for best results. Be sure to always cut away from your body as the grip can be quite tough. Remove the leftover tape and wipe away any residue with a cloth.
- Measure the length of grip tape needed on the club shaft. Apply enough tape on the shaft to cover the length of the grip. Excess tape can be removed after installation. Also, make sure that the grip tape coves the diameter of the club shaft.
- Open the end of your new grip with a golf tee and pour paint thinner inside it. Cover the golf grip with paint thinner as well. Once the inside of the grip is covered, slide the grip over the top of the tape and fasten it in place.
- Leave the grip to dry. Leave the newly gripped clubs to dry and set in a warm room in your house. Allow at least eight hours of dry time before heading out to the course or driving range.
Can Paint Thinner Damage Your Grips?
Using paint thinner to install golf grips does carry some risk of damaging the grips. While the potential for harming your golf clubs is minimal, there is a higher possibility of negatively affecting the new grips themselves.
Paint thinner can be effective, but it’s crucial to exercise caution during the process. If not executed correctly, you may inadvertently compromise the integrity of the grip, which could result in decreased performance and longevity.
While paint thinner can work in most cases, it’s essential to follow the installation procedure carefully to ensure the safety and effectiveness of your new grips.
What Are Alternatives For Installing Golf Grips?
We would always recommend using golf grip solvent to regrip your clubs. It is not expensive, and it is specially formulated to adhere golf grips to newly tapped golf clubs. That said, paint thinner would be high on our lists of viable alternatives to golf grip solvent.
If you are in a situation where you cannot find or use golf grip solvent, below are suitable alternatives.
- Regripping Golf Clubs Soap And Water
- Regripping Golf Clubs With Rubbing Alcohol
- Regripping Golf Clubs With WD-40
Final Thoughts
Golf can be an expensive sport. Between the equipment and cost to play, many golfers look for ways to save. While there are ways to cut cost, we would advise against using paint thinner to regrip your golf clubs. There really is now substitute better than golf grip solvent.
Regripping your golf clubs incorrectly will cause you more in the long run. Use the tips above to regrip your clubs correctly and to avoid extra costs.
Once you regrip your new clubs, be sure to keep up with their maintenance Check out our article on 5 Easy Ways To Clean Your Golf Grips to make sure your golf grips last.
Hopefully you liked this article and found it informative. Check out our other blog posts if you liked this one!
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