Printable Version of Instructions
Tools Needed
- Insert installation drill bit
- Insert installation tap
- Insert installation tool
- Epoxy
- Insert hole deburring tool (suggested, not required)
- Self-centering drill guide block (suggested, not required)
This example will cover using existing holes in a ski for the binding desired.
Before installation clean the inserts with a de-greaser and wipe clean. Any grease or oil left on the inserts from the machining process could interfere with the epoxy.
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Remove the binding from the ski to expose the existing binding holes.
- You will drill out the existing holes to fit the inserts. Use the insert installation drill bit to get the correct size hole and depth for the insert. You should be working with a drill guide block or drill press. Getting the hole to be straight up and down is extremely important.
- After using the drill bit it’s a good idea to clean up the top sheet. Do this by using the deburring tool, or a sharp blade. Trim away the top sheet around the top of the hole you’ve just drilled
- Flip the ski over and tap the base of the ski to ensure that all the debris is out of the hole
- After the holes are the correct size and depth you will tap for the insert. Using the insert installation tap, tap the hole until you feel resistance when you’ve reached the bottom of the hole. Back the tap out slowly being sure to follow the threads you’ve just created. Flip the ski over again to tap out any debris you’ve created from tapping.
- Next you will apply epoxy (we recommend our 24 or 72-hour double bubble packets). Squeeze the contents out onto a clean surface and mix well. Next use a toothpick or something similar to coat the inside of the hole entirely. This is to help hold the insert as well as seal out any moisture.
- Using your insert installation tool, start to screw the insert into the threads you just tapped. This tool will allow you back the insert out if needed while the epoxy is still wet. It may be a good idea to lightly screw the insert in and then back it out a couple times. You may notice that an insert is backing out after installation. This is caused by an air bubble trapped under the insert and sealed off by the epoxy. Let the inserts cure in a warm dry place upside-down.
Tips
- If you’ve never drilled a ski before it’s a great idea to start on a piece of scrap wood. You can fully run through installing an insert without epoxying it in. The drill bit is stepped for the right depth but if you’re unsure you can use a piece of painter's tape. When the stepped part of the drill bit contacts the tape, you will see it tear and know you’re at the correct depth.
- When using the tap, you will be turning the tap a total of 4.5 to 5 revolutions max. Turning too much will cause you to strip or foul the threads.
- 1 packet of epoxy will work for 15-20 holes.
- After completing the installation give your inserts some time (15-20 minutes) to set up then mount your bindings LIGHTLY!! DO NOT apply any torque, just thread in the screws. This will help align the screw and the insert in case there is any angle from drilling or tapping so that the inserts will set that way.
We can email you or print these directions and send them in an order if you'd like! If you want them sent with an order, please include the request in the comments section of your order.