FT16 Ground Sleeve
Assembly Instructions
Bill of Materials
A (1) Ground Sleeve
B (8) ½"x 1 ½" Hex Bolt
NOTE: Immediately unpack all components and cross check against bill of materials. Report any shortages to First Team customer service at 1-888-884-6677.
1. First, thread (1) ½"x 1 ½" hex bolt into each welded nut. This is to make certain that the bolts will thread into the nuts without cross-threading. Leave the bolts threaded into the nuts.
2. Once you have determined that the nuts and bolts thread together properly, locate and dig a 20" wide x 36" deep hole.
3. Carefully position sleeve into hole making sure that lower set of tightening nuts are just above where the concrete level will be. It is also important that the sleeve be square with your playing surface.
4. Mix and pour concrete around the outside of the sleeve. DO NOT allow concrete to seep inside sleeve from underneath! Insert broom handle or other pole to vibrate concrete around sleeve to eliminate any voids. To assure a level installation, it is advisable to plumb sleeve by inserting a 2"x4" into sleeve and checking with a level.
5. STOP! Allow a minimum of 24 hours cure time before continuing installation.
6. Insert 4"x4" square post into sleeve and tighten into position on all four sides using the (8) ½"x 1 ½" hex bolts provided.
7. Check post with a level to make sure it is installed plumb both front to back and side to side. The (8) ½" x 1 ½" hex bolts can be used to adjust the post if it is slightly out of level.
8. Next, fill the voids inside the sleeve with a very fine, dry sand. This will further stabilize the post. Bagged sand can be purchased at most home building supply stores.
9. Finally, continue installation of your basketball system as per the instructions provided with the unit.
