How to Install Downhill Ski Bindings

A ski binding is an attachment mechanism that "locks" the ski boot to the actual ski itself. It is a necessary part of the ski, as omitting it will not allow the ski to remain on the skier's foot. There are many types and brands, and it is up to the skier's preference which one to chose. This article will focus on downhill (Alpine) ski bindings and how to install them properly on your own.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ski bindings (foot and heel pieces) Skis Ski boots Drill with drill bits of various sizes Phillips-head screwdriver Ruler Marker Epoxy glue

1. Snap the toe of the ski boot into the toe piece of the binding. Using this as a visual guide as well as your ruler. Center the boot along the width of your ski.

2. Use the marker to make a small dot through each screw hole. These mark where you will be drilling and attaching the binding. Do not let the boot or binding slide around, or it will mess up the markings. Remove the boot from the toe piece of the binding and set aside.

3. Match the screws provided with the bindings to your power drill bits. Pick one that is slightly smaller and mount it onto your drill.

4. Drill the screw halfway down into each mark you made in Step 2. Do not go all the way down or you will drill through the entire ski, ruining it.

5. Squeeze and fill the holes halfway with the epoxy glue. Do not fill all the way to the top. Lay the toe piece of the binding over the holes. Insert the screws into the holes and screw down tightly. Some glue will likely come out around the edges; if this happens, just wipe it away with a damp cloth. Allow the glue to dry completely before using the ski or inserting the boot.

6. Snap the heel part of the boot into the heel piece of the binding and align to the center of the ski, using the techniques described in steps 1 through 5.

7. Repeat steps 1 through 6 on the opposite ski. Let the glue dry completely, anywhere from 4 to 24 hours before using the skis.

Tips & Warnings

• Each ski binding comes with its own instruction booklet. Read through it to see if any special instructions or tools are needed.
• If you are having trouble or doubt your ability to attach the binding securely, take the skis to a professional installation shop. It is not worth personal injury if you have any doubts as to your skill. The DIN setting is a number based on a skier's height, weight, boot length, level of experience and age. It is highly advisable after installing bindings to have a ski technician set the proper DIN setting, as it will determine how easily the binding will release the foot after the skier falls. Too high of a setting is not good for inexperienced skiers, and too low of a setting can cause possible injury due to the ski release being too loose.

References

• Love to Know - How to Install Ski Bindings
• Self-Sufficient Urbanite - How to Install Your Own Ski Bindings (with pictures)
• Love to Know - DIN Settings Chart

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[tippster]

on 9/10/2009 You have never worked in a ski shop, have you? If so please tell me which one so I can avoid it like the plague.

One word for you to look up: "Jig."