What is the proper way to attach ski bindings?

Question

I already have the plate screwed into my skis. Now how do I correctly position them? Should they be forward set? What tools do I need? Can I do this myself? Thank you for the help.

Answer 1

I admire do-it-yourself types. Wish I had that kind of confidence, but am all thumbs when it comes to projects. So, I ask you, do you want to do it once in your life and hope you got it right, or go to a shop where they do this 10-15 times a day and know you got it right.

Answer 2

It is really not a good idea to do this yourself unless you are expert at it.  Most techs at ski shops have very specific instructions on how to mount bindings, and mounting instructions can even vary depending on use (for example, you use a different setting for a terrain park vs. all mountain use on some skis).  Techs also have tools like "jigs", which give them a template for mounting the bindings.

I know it's not cheap, but taking them to the shop is one of the best investments you can make. Your bindings are critical to the health of your bones, joints and ligaments.

good luck.

Answer 3

NO!  You absolutely should NOT try to attach your own ski bindings.  This must be done by a certified ski tech at a knowledgeable ski shop.  The bindings must be adjusted to your height, weight, skiing ability, and make of boot.  

Failure to correctly mount and adjust your bindings could result in a painful injury if they don't come off when they should, or come off when they shouldn't.

Answer 4

If the plate has pre-drilled holes that match the holes on your binding then you should be able to just s***w it on. I've seen many riser plates nowadays that are pre-drilled and it usually only needs a screwdriver and some glue to set the screws.

If the plate is not pre-drilled then you will need the proper jig for your bindings. Since most people don't have ski jigs laying around their garage, you might have to take it to the shop and have the tech mount the skis.

In all honesty, it's best to have them done by a tech. I butchered a few pairs of old skis before I learned the right way to do it when I was a tech. Plus they can balance them and get them set-up for you the proper way. The right tech may let you watch and show you what he is doing, especially at a smaller shop.