Instructions for Mounting Ski Bindings

If you are interested in instructions for mounting ski bindings, there are a number of things to consider. This do-it-yourself project is only recommended for people with a deep understanding of the nuances of the sport, as well as advanced knowledge of ski design.

Downhill Ski Bindings Mount

Skiing is an expensive sport. Your skis, bindings and boots probably cost you a considerable amount of money. Before you decide to mount your own ski bindings, consider this:

• A boot-fitting mistake can usually be corrected. If you mess up a binding mount, you've ruined an expensive pair of skis.
• While having your bindings professionally mounted will cost between $40 and $50, the tools you need to mount your own bindings will cost more.
• Many shops will install your bindings free of charge if you buy your bindings from them.
• The warranty on your skis will be void if you don't use a certified shop to mount your bindings.
• Bindings that are not mounted correctly can cause severe injuries.

If you still want to mount your own bindings, find an old pair of skis that you are no longer using. Follow the instructions for mounting ski bindings, then assess your skills. If you feel confident, follow these guidelines.

If you choose to mount your own bindings, you will need the following tools:

• A proper mounting jig from manufacturer
• A binding screw drill
• A binding release testing device
• A binding release chart
• A binding mount tool kit
• One of your own ski boots
• A fine-tipped magic marker
• A ruler
• A power drill
• Epoxy or other type of strong adhesive

Your skis will come marked with the manufacturers suggestions as to the best position for mounting the ski bindings. Keep in mind that this position might vary according to the brand of ski. There are three positions used for binding mounts. Of the three, the central position is the most common. This position keeps your center of gravity over the sweet spot of your skis. In the forward mount position, your center of gravity is in front of the sweet spot. This position is often used by women as a means of counteracting their tendency to be in the backseat.

The rear mount position keeps your center of gravity behind the sweet spot of the ski. This position is hardly ever used. However, some advanced skiers believe that this position is beneficial for powder skiers. Keep in mind that this is a controversial theory. You should only use this this type of mount if you've experimented, and had success with it while demoing rental skis.

Proper alignment is critical.

Begin by snapping your ski boot into the toe piece of one of the bindings. Keeping the binding and boot attached, align the midpoint of the ski boot with the midpoint of the ski. Once the boot and binding are aligned, use your magic marker or felt-tipped pen to make a dot on the screw holes of the toe piece. Then, remove the boot and binding, and use your ruler to make sure that the marks are centered along the width of the ski.

Now you are ready to drill. Experts suggest that you use a drill bit that is somewhat smaller than the screws. Using your marks as guidelines, drill halfway through your skis. Fill the holes with epoxy or some other strong adhesive. Then, insert the screws and screw the toe piece into place.

Installing your heel piece is the next step in the mounting process. Snap your ski boot into the binding, and use your marker to make a mark at the base of the heel. Align your heel piece with the marks, and use your ruler to to center the heel piece along the width of the ski. Once the heel piece is in place, you can make a small mark through the center of each screw hole. Drill holes into the marks, fill the holes with adhesive, and screw the heel piece into place.

Once your bindings are installed, use the DIN chart to adjust the settings.

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• Ski Bindings DIN Chart
• Ski Size Chart
• Ski Length Calculator
• Ski Length Recommendations
• Ski Stunt Simulator

• Ski Bindings Maintenance
• Main Page
• Adjusting Ski Bindings
• How Do You Adjust Snow Ski Bindings
• Install Ski Bindings