The rookie,
TheBowlingKid25 and smitty8288 are right.
Actually its all correct match up with the condition, speed, rev rate, rotation and tilt. "Generally" for length drillings, if one's speed is high, placing the pin below fingers might be a good choice. This reduces the flare and saves it for the backends while reducing the length in comparison to pin up drillings. If that is not enough and still skids through the break point, placing the pin closer to PAP might work (4 to 4-1/2). However, as I said before, its all about correct match up and experiment will find out the best way. Please keep in mind that surface preperation is still the biggest factor on the reaction. You may need to fine tune it also. Any experienced ball driller can decide closer solution when he/she watches one's game.
On the other hand, Robert Smith uses 5-1/2 pin to PAP distance with pin above fingers for long/heavy oil patterns. Think about his rev rate and speed.. That works for him..
Regarding your tripleX, again its too hard to suggest something without watching your actual game, but here goes my two cents:
TripleX is pretty aggressive ball for me for medium to heavier lanes, especially if there is some dry down the lane.
Since its medium conditions, wood surface and medium everything for you, I suggest:
If you are a high tracker, place the pin 5 to 5-1/2 from your PAP, over the fingers. Place the RAD/MB in strong position, around 5inches from your PAP.
If you are a low tracker, place the pin 5 to 5-1/2 from your PAP, under the bridge. Place the RAD/MB in strong position.
Please check the location of the CG before you get your tripleX. If you want skid-snap ball, "usually" you don't want a big weight hole. Therefore if you can find one with CG shifted left from the pin-MB line (talking about a righty), that should work better.
Hope this helps,
Burak
Edited on 11/23/2004 5:48 AM