True Bar

The picture below is a ski true bar.

http://www.j2ski.com/images/pavelski/tool1.jpg

The function of a true bar is to determine how the ski base and ski edges align. That is the plastic base must be perfectly flat ( aligned) with metal ski edges. The lower edge of this bar is placed 90 degrees to ski edges and moved from tip to tail to determine any variation.

Here is how you do this!
1. Take ski and turn so that ski base is facing up and top of ski ( where binding is) is resting on your shoulder.
2. Hold ski with left hand. ( if you are right handed)
3.Raise ski tip towards a light source
4. With right hand, place true bar on ski base at tip area
5.Slowly pass true bar down ski base, while looking at interface area between true bar and ski base. Make sure ski tip is towards light source.

6. You should see a very thin line formed from the light source between the true bar and ski base.

7. Look very carefully as you do this.
-if more light coming from near ski edges or line gets widder near ski edges ********** You have a a CONVEX base problem
(see your school geometry text on what convex means)

- if you have more light or widder light line in center of ski base,,,,
You have a CONCAVE base problem!


On 97% of skis you must have a "flat" perfect base before you do any tuning. When you buy a new ski base must be flat.
When you buy an old ski,, you MUST check base this way.


When you get TRUE BAR visit ski shops a test how many skis have aligned or perfectly flat bases!!!!!

Look at picture again.
You will note that at top right hand side of tool is a 90 degree section ( just above hole). This is my guide to determine if edges are truly 90 degrees. Whenever you buy a new or old ski ALWAYS check ski edges with this part of the true bar.


You must have a true bar. Get one before any other tools!

Please provide feedback if picts are clear and can be downloaded.