Assembly and Review of the Spalding Beast Basketball Hoop

Assembly and Review of the 60" glass Spalding Beast Basketball Court System
Link to the hoop: amzn.to/318Id2M
ASIN: B001AQUBR0
During this assembly I also used several tools which I find invaluable in this process. I have linked those below:
Air Wedge Bags Pump: amzn.to/3o0Usrp
Kreg Track Horse: amzn.to/3ljBlH9
Socket set: amzn.to/311soeR
Knipex tool: amzn.to/3o0i7rR

[@HarMegiddo]

Great video thank you! I agree, tapping those two square beams was insane! I tightened my backboard a little more than flush and it is now way more stable. Just make sure not to overtighten so it can go up and down.

[@ERay1080]

Good on you mate, just well done, you’ve got me thinking I need to get a few things ready for this build

[@randyforce8406]

Thanks for the vid. I assembled the beast this weekend, mostly by myself. Some notes for others: The beam assembly wasn't that bad. My 8 year old helped me by holding the bottom. I pounded it vertically on my concrete pad with a 6"x2" scrap square underneath. I did not need to sand or otherwise mess with the beams. Also, just use one saw horse vice 2. That way you can raise and lower the assembly as needed by moving the horse forward/back. I did not have any issues getting the backboard aligned that way.

[@tigergray1100]

That looks pretty solid

[@WhenThingsGoSouthNJ]

I agree. At this price point, install should be simplified. Great video! Thank you!

[@Sithari66]

Great video. How is it to move it though? Is it actually portable or does the weight and size make that difficult?

[@user-vt3vc3ks9h]

Hi. Good job assembling by yourself! I've put my hoop up today but REALLY confused about tightening the lock nuts until flush. The whole backboard is slopping around like crazy! I have like 1/2" play in the elevator arms and the backboard bolts. I really want to tighten them up! you seemed to leave the same play in the bolts, did you leave them or tighten up? Thanks

[@leop1193]

Do you need the level the back board when tightening the bolts down or the rim ? Thanks

[@davidoconnor903]

From Perth Western Australia: Much kudos to you for your video going into so much detail re the important parts of the build. I built this with my two sons (16 & 20) and it took about 10 hours. First thing, how did you build this on your own, that's insane!!!! I think we conservatively spent over 2 hours just trying to get the two square beams in place. You waste time overthinking this part. We were trying to not scratch parts etc but in the end, you just ensure the two beams are correctly aligned with REAR + REAR in line. THIS IS IMPORTANT: ENSURE THE REAR STICKERS ARE BOTH ON THE SIDE (I'll stop shouting now, but seriously one guy in another video got this wrong and it was a nightmare, once done there's no going back). I put an old towel on the concrete while my son stood on a wall so it didn't fall over. You hold it with the top part facing down and the part that slips in being held by a person on a safe sturdy wall if possible. After about 3 large bangs it got started. Took another 20 or so thumps to get it done Lift about two feet and drop onto the concrete over and over. Don't hold back you can't break it. Do not do this alone, you could seriously injure yourself (do not get your 8 year to help, you need an adult). The other part is applying the sticker, a good tip to clean with window cleaner (did that). My only other observation is to take it slow and ensure you have a place to put out all the bolts etc. Each bag is associated with a specific part of the build, only open when needed. This confused us for a few mins. You will need some tools so don't start if you don't have a decent socket set and some extensions for hard-to-reach bolts. I recommend putting vaseline on all the parts exposed and over the top of the extender to seal it. This will ensure water stays out and the mechanism doesn't seize. I live in a very dry climate but things still rust and decay over time. Final word, if you can afford the professional installation, it's probably worth it. Good luck, this is a drawn-out process but the end result is an excellent basketball system. My boys love the solid backboard. Thanks again to you for posting this video:-).

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Great comment. Yeah, I have some serious ptsd from this project. Doing it alone was dumb for sure. Glad you got yours sorted. And thank you for the comment.

[@julschong]

Hey mate. I also happen to live in Perth. How has it held up in the weather a year on?

[@chiosaechao3995]

The assembly was a monster !! Save your back and hire someone unless you have 2-3 people

[@nnjvhvhhgc5213]

What did you use as support, at the bottom of the court, once you finished installing it?

[@MW-qv5ox]

When the backboard is lowered down as far as possible what is the height from the ground to the tallest part of the unit? Just wondering for storage

[@DimplesDon9]

Hey thanks for uploading this. Question when you install the backboard to the arms. Are the arms set to the lowest settings so maybe 7.5? And the bolts holding the backboard how tight they are is it flush only like on the elevator? And do you use plastic spacer plus the metal flat washer to the backboard installation? Sorry for the 3 Question. Thank you

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Hi. Yes. Lowest setting. The rest do exactly as the book says. It’s hard for me to recall but I believe you just want the bolt end flush with the outer edge of the nut. Not right all the way. And yes, I believe there is a bushing on both sides. But the instructions were actually pretty clear on both of those. If you still have trouble let me know and I’ll look at it up close tomorrow.

[@DimplesDon9]

@@diytoolreviews8278 After putting the backboard how do you able to push it back to upright position? Do you push it from its pole or elevator arm or to the backboard? How you managed pushing it safety?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

@@DimplesDon9 that’s the part I got my wife’s help with. We used the main shaft and the two of us got it upright. It was a little sketchy but felt fine. I’d recommend only about 1/2 water in the tank at that point.

[@cyberiagenesis]

I’m a 20 year old (4 star recruit H.S athlete) trying to set this up. Your video is very helpful but my only problem I’m stuck with at the moment - the pole bashing situation. Quite difficult to do alone which is currently my case but I’m pretty handy with my tools so I haven’t given up. Thank you for this video.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

It’s one of the most difficult things I’ve ever fitted to each other. But don’t give up. Just when it looks impossible it’ll work. Make sure to sand down the parts and if you have a grinding wheel that might help remove some of the material. Also use some lubricant like WD40 or silicone spray. As long as you can get it started somewhat straight you should be set. Take your time and give it about 30 good hulk smashes.

[@dawnq50nine81]

Have you experience bad wheather especially strong winds with the system? What would you recommend to use for the base to make it very secure and stable? Did you use tie down strap?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

We live right in the path of the Santa Ana winds. It's not unusual to have the wind move all out furniture and equipment at least once a month. The Beast has not so much as budged an inch. As long as the water tank (Base) is full I don't think anything could more it. We don't really have cold weather here so I can't speak to how it holds up to low temps. But wind is not at all an issue.

[@benjaminnegron941]

Thanks for making this video as I’ve been trying to find more real life info. Only question I have is how easy is this to move? Most portable baskets are quite difficult to move around. Being that this has four wheels and the handle that pulls out is a big reason I am considering. Can one person move around and do you think it’s made to be moved often and hold up?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

It’s definitely doable with just one person. The wheels make it easy to move but it’s not something you want to move very often. The wheel assembly is probably going to be the first thing to eventually break on this thing as it’s an obvious weak point.

[@evd1993]

Nice video! how big were those boxes altogether? Would they fit in the back of a mid-size SUV (Hyundai Tucson)? I just won one of these on an auction site and have to drive a ways to pick it up. Not sure if I need to rent a truck or not.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Rent a truck for sure. They won’t fit the back of a suv. I’m almost certain.

[@evd1993]

@@diytoolreviews8278 Thanks!!

[@captainwilly9793]

So after 1 year how is it holding up, any issues?

[@QuentinGurrieri]

Hi,thanks for your vidéo Just one question,it’s a beast glass backboaord 60” ? Because the new one in 72” is so good too.

[@shivamgandhi5779]

Yes that’s the 60 inch

[@QuentinGurrieri]

Thanks Shivam. I will have another question please. I live in France and I bought a Spalding the beast stealth. On the site "the original" does not have board protection.But the Stealth has it or am I wrong? Because in the photos, he has it, which may explain the price difference, right?

[@shivamgandhi5779]

@@QuentinGurrieri the Beast original does not come with the board pad and the stealth does and yes, the price is different because the stealth is an all black system

[@bobdangelo4642]

Easiest way to connect the 2 main poles is heat the larger opening one on your stove for about 5 minutes rotating it every 20-30 seconds… it will expand enough that it literally will slide right together …in less than 30 seconds

[@kevincollins7563]

Nice

[@MrMilanina]

How hard is it to move it?

[@fernandorosas7629]

That hoop looks super stable, like it. What is more durable? The glass or acrylic?

[@donesy125]

Tempered glass is the best you can get. Don’t get acrylic

[@subooring7149]

i suggest...that u place it on the left or right side , so ul hav more perimeter play area, whch is closer to to the actual area in an actual game

[@chris3r1]

and the sun, you will have it at your back instead of at your side.

[@bloomski84]

What size backboard is it? 60”?

[@johnnycafferky8099]

Did you have any issues with the(4) base struts not aligning with hole in the pole?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Not really.

[@raddad84]

Heated up the wider end of the post with a small torch for 2-3 minutes, then it slid right on without any pounding...just be sure to wear heat-resistant/welding gloves.

[@patbejjani9838]

Thanks for the vid. Ok awesome and probably best ring but the instruction manual is not clear. I got everything up and last bolt on the ring the glass broke because of 4 rings/foam placement which doesnt make sense at all as to where to position it. So people it goes at the front of the board not the back like i did to prevent pressure against the glass. If they had that clearer for such an expensive set we would have been enjoying it instead of paying 700 bucks for a new board....

[@fernandoaustria6350]

Was does flush tighten really mean??! (Apologies for the lack of my handyman skills and terminology)

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Basically means the nut is tightened until the head of the bolt is flush with the end of the nut. Which means the nut is not on there tight at all.

[@HarMegiddo]

Was there a plastic film on your glass backboard?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

I don’t recall if there was.

[@jdbackyardbbq6371]

Very helpful but I’d have to say putting this thing together is still hell with your helpful instructions. I’d opt next time for the professional installation. Thank you for making this video.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

It's funny, when I was purchasing the professional install wasn't an option on their site in my area. If it were I would have 100% opted for it. It would have been worth every penny.

[@jdbackyardbbq6371]

@@diytoolreviews8278 me too. I still haven’t completed it. I installed the two beams incorrectly and now waiting for the replacements. I was almost halfway done with installing the backboard and notice the holes weren’t in the same locations as yours were where the arms go. Very disappointed. The instructions manual shows stickers on each beam that say “rear” but in real life there’s only one sticker that says “rear” and another sticker that says “inferior”. I matched those two stickers together which was incorrect. I tried drilling holes once I knew the beams were incorrect but my precision was off. Didn’t have the court ready for Christmas for my son. What a bummer.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

@@jdbackyardbbq6371 oh man. I’m sorry to hear that. I really think Spalding should deliver the main column as one piece cause putting it together is really not a reasonable home diy. Like I said on the video I nearly gave up myself. Let me know if I can help in any way when you get the new parts. Did they charge you for extra parts?

[@guldamagsoa2566]

How much did you spent for the Beast?

[@crazylano]

I see there is now a 2021 and 2022 version. Do you know the difference and which is better?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

From what I understood it was simply a different logo placement. The structure is the same.

[@shivamgandhi5779]

The 2022 version doesn’t have the NBA logo on the backboard due to the NBA using the new nba ball which is made by Wilson

[@micheek940]

Thank you for the tutorial. How long did it take to assemble?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

A total of about 5 hours mostly single handed. If you had two people I bet you could do it in 3.

[@fernandoaustria6350]

Do you think it can handle high winds? (about 22mph)

[@diytoolreviews8278]

I get 40+ mph winds A LOT here where I live. The beast doesn't even flinch. You're good.

[@yank629]

How difficult is this to move once assembled? Does it have 4 wheels on the base or only two?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

It’s not too difficult. The handle has a set of wheels and the base as another set of wheels. So when you lift the handle it engages the front two wheels and that’s how you can pull it and steer it.

[@yank629]

@@diytoolreviews8278 awesome, thank you for your quick response.

[@nnjvhvhhgc5213]

I’ve been dreading tackling this project for the last month or so. I need to at least get it started.

[@cpaganjr123]

If your wondering how to fit the two poles together sand and wipe the inside of the top pole with grease and sand and wipe the bottom outside of the pole with grease. Then slide them together. You’ll thank me later

[@bobdangelo4642]

If you heat the larger pole on a stove for about 5 minutes rotating it every 20-30 seconds or so it will expand enough to slide right over the smaller tube … I can’t believe they don’t recommend that … it took less than 30 seconds to build the main pole

[@donesy125]

I want this thing but I’m torn between going through hell to install it and paying hundreds to have it installed lol 😅

[@allencentonzo2424]

I have one question..how far does the basket and backboard lean out from the base?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

Depends on the height you have it at. When it’s at full height it’s not leaning much at all. But at it’s lowest position it leans a couple of feet. If you need very specific measurement at a specific height let me know and I’ll try to get it for you.

[@allencentonzo2424]

Thank you for getting back to me. I would be keeping it at the 10-ft height. With my driveway I have a curb, so I will be sitting the base behind the curb which is about 5 to 6 inches thick. Hopefully the basket would hang over my driveway. No rush but any information you could give me would be greatly appreciated. Have a great day!

[@bloomie4976]

i can’t get the two big bars started enough to be able to slam it without it either coming out, or getting one side too far in and the other side isn’t in as far and having to restart.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

I know what you mean. Don't give up. Get someone to help you. I struggled with this part for hours. Get some 60-grit sand paper and sand the top 5" of the bottom part. It's an absolute nightmare to get it going but you will get it eventually.

[@bloomie4976]

@@diytoolreviews8278 got some help and we got them started but a ton of slamming and making little progress. It seems impossible

[@diytoolreviews8278]

@@bloomie4976 Okay good! Here's the thing, make sure you have it upside down first, with a piece of plywood under it. You'll want to pick up the whole thing about 2 ft off the ground and the slam it down. I did this part alone but it really helps to have someone help you. Each time you slam it you'll make about an 1/8" or so of progress. VERY IMPORTANT to not go too far in because getting it out is even more impossible. I know it seems very daunting right now but trust me, keep slamming it and it will eventually start to give.

[@granthoglund7012]

This was by far the hardest part of assembly for me too. I called Spaulding and they forwarded me a form on how to make this easier. Basically I used an angle grinder to grind down the corners of the male end. I ground it down to bare metal then put some WD40 on all the surfaces. It went together way easier. Touch up the paint at the end if necessary. It would have been nice if Spaulding had this in the instructions from the get-go instead of me having to call them and they forward me a PDF "addendum." Also, if you have it partially together and need to pull it apart to do the grinding, Spaulding recommends dropping the whole assembly over and over on a grassy surface. I stacked up the cardboard and did it on that as it's winter here in MN and no grass in sight. That was the ONLY way I was able to get those 2 pieces apart to do the grinding.

[@diytoolreviews8278]

@@granthoglund7012 oh man what a hassle. Really seems like they could make this a lot simpler for the end user. Glad you got it figured out eventually. And good for you for having the motivation to assemble the beast on the snowy winter!

[@DimplesDon9]

Hi, this one the new model don't have the rubber that screw at the bottom of the backboard going thru around each sides "halfway"? Like rubber padding protection. Or you didn't put it On?

[@diytoolreviews8278]

No. This model doesn't have any part like that.

[@a127adidas]

Just connected the columns today in about 15 minutes. Saturate a paper towel with some dish soap. Rub it on the inside and outside of the post ends you need to join. It won’t stay wet. Don’t worry about that yet. Lay down some plywood and set the the posts on it. Line up the ends. Have someone stand on the post you are trying to slide into. Take a piece of 2x10 and put over the top of the column you want to drive in. Take a sledge hammer and take about 5 good swings to get the columns started. Once started stand the attached columns up and use a spray bottle to spray water around where the posts are connected. This will cause the dish soap to activate and become slippery. Then pick the columns up and slam on your plywood on the ground about 10 times. It will start to move a lot better. Be sure not to exceed the maximum 5 inches of connection needed. Also when you connect the column to the base, leave the nuts a little loose. It will make it much easier when connecting the 4 strut bars when trying to align the holes. Trust me.

[@JaredPWagner]

Just put the posts together horrible process. In addition to the sanding and lubricant I used WD40. I recommend buying a bottle of black spray pant and skip the plywood they tell you to put between the posts and the ground. I slammed this to the ground over and over again for an hour and got a single inch of progress. The plywood absorbs too much of the force. Got rid of the plywood and slammed the post down on concrete. Finished the last three inches in about 10 minutes. It messes up the paint on top but you can just spray paint that at the end.

[@pholtable]

What a pain in the ass this curse is. Installed the backboard wrong twice. Pain in my ass

[@fuelfactorgear1447]

The bouncing of the poles is ridiculous.