How to Install Graphite Shaft Extensions

Golf clubs can be lengthened to either fit a taller-than-average person or simply to increase the velocity of the club head at impact to achieve additional distance in your ball flight. Special inserts can be purchased at most golf outlet stores or club-fitting vendors at golf courses. Most clubs can and should only be lengthened up to two inches in order to maintain the shaft's integrity. When altering the club's length -- longer or shorter -- always make the alteration at the butt, or grip end, of the club.

Things You'll Need

  • Knife
  • Solvent
  • Washcloth
  • Epoxy
  • Shaft-lengthening insert
  • Double-sided tape
  • Replacement grip
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the existing grip by cutting a small incision at the mouth, or shaft entry point, of the grip. Keep cutting to a minimum and rip away the majority of the grip using your hands, because graphite can be damaged easily.

    • 2

      Pour solvent over the newly exposed portion of the shaft and scrub away any remaining residue with your washcloth.

    • 3

      Drip epoxy onto the serrated portion of the insert and firmly press it into the butt of the shaft. It should fit snugly and not require excessive effort to install.

    • 4

      Allow the epoxy to set for six to eight hours.

    • 5

      Wrap double-sided tape over the portion of the shaft that is to be covered by the replacement grip, taking into account the added length of the shaft. In other words, a small portion of the formerly covered area will now be visible once the new grip is attached. Because of this, don't tape to where the former grip extended.

    • 6

      Pour solvent into the new grip until it is nearly full and shake vigorously, plugging the holes at either ends with your thumb and index fingers. Be sure solvent saturates the entire inner wall of the grip.

    • 7

      Dump the solvent out of the grip and onto the newly taped portion of the shaft. Forcibly slide the grip over the taped area. Slide until the butt of the extension is flush against the butt of the grip.

    • 8

      Wipe away remaining solvent and allow the club to set for another six to eight hours.