digging a platform

[dj antifreeze]

when you get stuck on a real steep climb with you skiis pointing up the hill what is the best techniques for building a platform to keep you sled from rolling if it seems like you sled will roll on a little tug to the side. i.e where do you dig the platform at back of track or it the middle????

 

[Rmk/lolos]

There is no super secret that i know, make sure your platform is to your best sidehilling side.

 

[SHMO]

I have contemplated this topic for some time, and I have found a great way to address it.

Don't get stuck with your skis pointing straight up the hill.

SHMO

 

[mod03rmk800]

I dig out all the way to the opposite ski starting from back of seat in an arc that sorta matches were the sled will swing. Leaving the sled up until I am prepared to start to pull it around. Then I will take the snow out under the ski to let it sorta drop down a little so it wont just roll into my hole i dug. After a little movement, have to get some out of the back of the tunnel/bumper area so it can keep pivoting. It is a little scary having a snow wall above me, so I try to not put myself into that situation. However it does happen a couple times a year(spring). And it also leaves a huge surprise for the next guy so before ya leave, knock the sharp top edge off a little.

 

[high time]

Yeah, a huge dug out right in the middle of the shute.

even if you don't need it that big, it might keep your buddies from highmarking you.
when your digging dig out the high side to keep from rolling.

Owen

 

[frock]

I've done this many times by myself and helped other guys using the same technique and never lost a sled this way. I start the platform 3/4's of the way down the sled. Dig the platform wide enough to fit the ski stance of the sled and long enough that the front end has room to come right down on it without getting hungup part way down (this is especially important if you are by yourself up there cause once the sled starts to come around you can't stop it to lengthen the platform and if there isn't enough room you risk losing the sled). Dig right up to the edge of the track and the ski. Once platform is dug I grab the ski one hand on each side of spindle (if you have trailing arms this is even easier, grab the trailing arm with both hands). Now I pull the sled around you may have to pull pretty good to get it started coming around, but as soon as you move it gravity will do its thing for you. Once the sled starts coming around I lean into the hood and pan area with my chest to prevent the sled from rolling. Lower the sled to the platform and once the ski is on it you simply tug on the ski in little bursts till the sled is sitting flat. Now spend a few minutes catching your breath cause by this time I am usually winded. Start her up and jump off the grave you just left for the next guy.