How to Assemble a Trampoline

You finally went out and bought the trampoline the kids have been begging for and lugged it home. You're officially Parent of the Year, but there's one small problem. The thing is still in a cardboard box. Someone has to assemble it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Place all the pieces on the lawn near the spot where the trampoline will stand. Sort them neatly into groups. Compare the parts with the parts list in the Owner's Manual. If you're missing any pieces, contact the retailer for replacements.
2. Lay each piece of the frame on the ground. When you have them all in place, assemble the trampoline framework, including the safety net frame. As it nears completion, it becomes more difficult to maneuver. Ask a partner to help you complete the frame. Insert all joints by hitting the joint seams with a rubber mallet. You can also lay a chunk of wood on each joint and smack it two or three times with a hammer. This takes the pressure off the joint momentarily, allowing it to snap into place.
3. Add the springs to the frame, allowing them to dangle toward the ground. If your model has open hooks, be sure they face down when pulled into position. Stretch the trampoline bed (the jumping surface) out beneath the framework. Using your partner, hook the bed to the frame springs. It is important to follow this step exactly to keep the springs from stretching improperly and the bed grommets from ripping.
4. Open the spring cover and tie it down to the grommets. The ties must share the grommets with the springs, so don't entangle them. If you do, the ties will rip when the trampoline is used.
5. Stretch the net out on the lawn until it's evenly distributed on the guide lines. Have your partner help you raise the net to keep it from tangling. Hang the net onto the frame, allowing it to overlap at the entry point. Tie the net securely to the trampoline frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your homeowner's insurance provider before trampoline assembly. Some policies premiums skyrocket or cancel altogether if you bring a trampoline into the yard. Know the insurance consequences before you put up a trampoline.
• Never assemble a trampoline without a safety net. You will reduce potential injuries with the use of a quality trampoline net.