How to Get Rid of Rusty Snowboard Edges
The edges of your snowboard are absolutely vital for executing those perfect turns. Unfortunately, where there is moisture there is the potential for rust. Rust dulls snowboard edges. If the rust is not removed, it will deteriorate the edge and render your snowboard ineffective at carving up that snow. Proper storage goes a long way in preventing rust. Even if rust has already appeared, all is not lost.
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Instructions
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Wipe your board with a soft cloth to remove dust, debris and loose rust particles.
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Remove excess wax and debris from your board using a soft scrub pad and base cleaner.
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Place your snowboard base side up in a board vice.
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Buff away obvious rust on the edge of your board, using a gummy stone. Use a long, smooth motion when running the gummy stone along the edge. For example, use light strokes and work as if you were polishing the edge. Wipe away rust particles with a soft cloth between strokes.
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Remove deep rust pits with an edge grinder, if necessary. Run the bit of the grinder along the edge of the board using long, continuous strokes. Allow the grinder to do the work. Repeat the process for both sides of the edge (the sides that form a 90-degree angle).
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Use a snowboard edge tool to smooth out and sharpen your edge after removing the rust. Adjust the edge tool to your desired angle (normally 90 degrees, but some snowboards perform better with a slightly sharper edge). Run the blade of the edge tool along the edge of the snowboard. You will hear a sharpening sound akin to the sharpening of a knife. Apply less pressure to your strokes if you hear a grinding noise.
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Tips & Warnings
Base cleaner, gummy stones and edge tools are available at snowboarding or ski shops.
Dry your snowboard thoroughly before storing to prevent rust from forming.
You can sharpen edges without a vice but you run the risk of injuring your fingers.
If you are new to using an edge grinder or edge tool, purchase an old pair of skis from a second-hand store and practice on them before tackling your snowboard.
If a gummy stone and a grinder does not remove all of the rust, it's probably time for a new edge. Take your snowboard to a repair shop as edge replacement is a complicated task.
Do not use an edge grinder unless you are familiar with its use. Too much grinding can damage your edge beyond repair.
Use base cleaner, gummy stones, edge grinders and edge tools in a well-ventilated area. Base cleaner can produce fumes; stones, grinders and edge tools can create rust and metal particles that are unhealthy to inhale.
References
Resources
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