Ski Builders Forum

Hello.

I'm ready to lay up the skies, and noticed that the base has warped. Indeed it was indoors but in a corner tucked away near the window, and it's suddenly gotten very cold in Chamonix, but warm inside. The base is already cut to shape and had edges glued on.

They are both out of shape and in different ways. One is a banana, the other is an S.

I've been looking around on the past forums for a similar topic to fix this problem to any info.

Thanks for your time,
MaRuMo

Lay the bases flat and stabilize the temperature if they don't go back to your desired shape try clamping them together preferably you can clamp them to the template you used to make your bases.
If that doesnt work you'll have to rip off the edges and reapply them to your stabilized bases. Regluing the edges should allow you get them to the desired shape.
Check this thread for some good ways to maintain symmetrical bases
http://www.skibuilders.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=1277
It is possible that the shape you cut the bases into has affected how they are warped and may keep them from returning to their original shape. If you have a cassette system in your mold you may be able to overcome your distortions.
Good luck!!

Hi Jono,

Thanks. I've already read the link you gave me and it does look very tidy. However, I'm building in a small space in a kitchen. Very minimalist set up.

Two other pairs of base with edges glued hasn't changed a significant amount. Even the one that has been taken outside in the snow and drastic temperature change returned to normal from being wavy. My base material is 0.5mm thinner and a different source to the other super bases.

Unfortunately I don't have a solid template or cassette. Mine is shortened in length of a particular ski model it's based on as well. Push comes to shove, I can cut a new set of base. Not desirable but the option is there.

MaRuMo,
I have used the following method to get symmetrical bases. If you have a wood board you could plot the widest point on the tip, the widest point on the tail and a point somewhere in between these points along the curve of your ski. Put a nail in each of these points and, assuming your ski's edge is an arc from a circle, you will be able to use these points to push your base material against when you attach your edges. Position the nails so that when you push the base material against them the other half of the base material hangs over the edge of the board enough so you can clamp the edges on. You should be able to flip your base around, so the tip is pointing the opposite direction, and attach the other edge while pushing your base material against the nails. After you have attached all four edges you can clamp both bases, face to face, against the nails. I would keep the bases horizontal to avoid temperature gradients.
If you want a simple base alignment method you could try using 4 finish nails to hold your bases in the correct position. Just nail them 15-20cm on either side of the narrowest point of your base. Make sure to nail them below the height of your edges. I also use rubber cement to hold my bases down in the mold. This might help you with alignment.
I thought I had it rough building skis in my tiny cellar. I can't imagine building skis in my kitchen (either can my wife).
Good luck!!

Cheers Jono,

I'll see what I can do with the advice you've given me! As for the ski building space, it'll be nice one day to not have to put the tools, machinery away and clean up the living space each time. But it's good enough for now.