Ski Builders Forum

I searched around and couldn't find anything related so I'll ask.

What is the proper order of press building? I don't have any materials yet but will acquire them piece by piece as funds come in. Would I be out of line to build my press in this order?

1. Frame
2. Cat track
3. Pressurization Bladder
4. Adjustable Mold ribs

Or would you say I should know which fire hose, and know my diameter and length first? The reason I ask is because I'm hoping to get hose for free and I have no idea what they'll give me.

I'd say figure out your mold first. That will dictate how much clearance you need, both horizontally and vertically, and how much hose you need, etc. Last fall I moved to a longer hose and added a cattrack to my press, and had to cut out a LOT of steel and do some new welding to make it work right again.

Ok. Good to know. If I told you I was planning to start with a fabric press and then eventually build a steel one that I can slip my existing mold into, would it change your answer?

in that case it would be even more important to build your mold first.

Cool. Thanks guys.