Backcountry Beacon

Sharks, demons, and other ski-hungry beasts lurk beneath the clement whiteness that we all ski on top of. Believe it. If you’ve yet to hear the tell-tale crunch of a ski-vs.-rock core shot, consider yourself blessed. Rocks, stumps, and other hard sub-snow nasties want to eat your skis bases, and if you aren’t wary, they’ll eat your ski right out from under you. Fortunately, we have some triage tips for when the ski-eaters pounce.

Tools:

• Nylon or brass brush
• Ptex (black or clear)
• Blow torch or lighter
• Flat file
• Razor blade
• Piece of cardboard or wood
• Vices or tuning stand (optional)

Steps:

1. Use brass brush to remove old wax and dirt from you ski base.
2. Clean out the core shot area using your razor blade. Remove all excess wax and base material. A clean, smooth repair surface ensures better ptex adherence.
3. Light ptex on fire. Wait until the ptex begins to drip consistently before you drip it into your repair area. Use the cardboard to catch the dripping ptex so you don’t get it everywhere.
4. Fill the gouge consistently but be careful not to use too much ptex—you’re aiming for a flush, filled-in repair.
5. Allow ptex to dry and harden.
6. Use flat file, then razor blade to smooth out and excess ptex—you’re aiming for a smooth surface that wax can adhere to.

Tips:

• Ptex is hard to remove from carpet, wood surface, and flesh. Be mindful of the hot ptex when you’re waiting for the it to come to a consistent drip—avoid maiming yourself or anything else you care about.
• Use a pair vise grips or pliers while dripping ptex so as to save your fingers from burning ptex pain.
• When flattening out your ptex job with your flat file and razor blade, be careful not to gouge other sections of your ski base. Use the ski edge as a guide.

Related Posts:

• Best Way to Wax Your Skis
• How to Detune Ski Tips and Tails
• Ski Edge Sharpening

Tags: base repairs, DIY, do-it-yourself, gear repair, ski tuning, skiing, video