Topic: Merkel rod replacment

[DrNoisewater]

I know this is an old topic and a longshot, but anyone know if possible to replace a Merkel rod?

I bought a used gray marble coin-op and one of the goalie rods needs replacing.  All of the others are Merkel rods.

Or is replacing with a new Tornado replacement rod the best option?

Thanks.

[johnwallan]

Just wondering what your intention and/or application is?  Are you trying to restore a table cosmetically, setting it up as a collectable for resale, looking for performance gains over current rods, or are you looking for durability for a public table environment?  I'm by no means an expert, so I won't offer an opinion.  I do think context will help others answer your question.

[kgstewar]

A while back, I searched high and low to see if anyone had Merkel rods for sale, and struck out. Best bet might be to find another gray marble with Merkels and use it as a parts table, but finding one that is cheap and Merkel-filled is probably going to be equally difficult.   

If it were me, I'd get a new Tornado rod, replace the bent one, and then keep my eye out for future Merkel opportunities.