Don't want to spend lots on ski servicing? Do it yourself - Tips!

Please note, with the links below I have no affiliation with any of the websites, I just like their information and tools.
*************************************************************

Anyone tuning their skis?
----------------------------

Tuning your own skis is a great way to reduce the cost of the sport of skiing. When a full service costs £35 and you buy one, once per holiday, it all adds up to a ton of cash.

Here are some sites with useful tutorials on how to keep your skis in tip top condition.

http://www.jonsskituning.co.uk/content/category/5/14/34/
http://www.toko.ch/en/knowhow
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=ski+tuning

What to buy
--------------

In my own experience it's well worth having a full ski service done from time to time - primarily to smooth the base of your ski. But buying a few of the basic maintenance tools will lengthen the intervals between services.

At the very least, I would recommend:

- A diamond file for daily smoothing of lightly damaged edges. This will improve edge grip noticeably on those iced up pistes. (£20+)

Next up would be:

- A cheap travel iron for waxing. (£15+) -waxing allows the skis to slide.
- Good quality (but not expensive) wax. (£10 ish)
- Plastic wax scraper (to scrape off the excess wax) (£5 & up)
- A file and guide for edge sharpening. (£10 up to £50+)

You will also need:

- Base cleaner - to clean base of ski before waxing. (£10 ish)
- Pan scourer to add structure to base after waxing (reduces surface tension under ski = less sticky on wet snow). (50p)

Now there are plenty more tools you can buy and opinions on what is needed and what isn't will vary. It's all a learning process :)

I can personally recommend the Moonflex tools Johns Ski Tuning sells, they're inexpensive and work well. Alternatively if you want a more upmarket solution which will last a long time try the Toko tuning tools. Available from Ellis Brigham and Snow and Rock.

http://www.ellis-brigham.com/tools-&-servicing/store/
http://www.snowandrock.com/maintenance/ski/fcp-category/list?resetFilters=true


N.B. When choosing a Moonflex or other side edge tuning tool (you will only need to be sharpening your side edges (see Jon's tips for why)) it helps to know what they have been set to at the factory otherwise you will be either:
a) not actually sharpening the edges (and instead be filing down the side of the ski) or
b) will file too much of the edge and reduce the ski's life.

Jon has a useful section on the factory setting of skis here.. http://www.jonsskituning.co.uk/content/view/31/41/

If you're still not sure there are ways you can check using a tool you have just bought or you can buy a tool with a different angles to choose from e.g.
http://www.toko.ch/en/products/tools/edge-tuning/edge-tuner-pro
or
http://www.toko.ch/en/products/tools/edge-tuning/ergo-race


I think that's covered the basics, please feel free to add comments with any questions.

Happy Servicing!

The most important tune up "tip" !

First get an old,,used ski and practice several hours on THAT ski,,before even touching yours !

Also,,,remember,,,"less is more" phrase !

That is do small changes, small cuts rather than "radical" 4 degree bevels !!!

Andymaxell great items !

Pavel