How to Prep a Toboggan

A toboggan is a long sled for multiple people that is equipped with a steering rope to make it somewhat manageable on a downhill slope. To ensure the utmost safety, especially for children using the toboggan, it is advisable to prepare and maintain the toboggan properly. Each year before it is used, give the toboggan an inspection, a good cleaning, and a new layer of wax before hitting the slopes. This will maximize not only the safety of the sled but also its fun factor.

Things You'll Need

  • Toboggan
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Drill
  • Wood screws
  • Nylon rope
  • Warm water
  • Clean cloth rags
  • Car ice scraper
  • Ski wax
  • Nylon bristle brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring the toboggan inside for a few hours and allow it to come to the temperature of the room where you will be working. If the toboggan has been stored in an outdoor shed or in an unheated attic it will be cold compared to the room and condensation will occur on the surfaces. Condensation impedes the new wax layer from adhering to the sled.

    • 2

      Inspect the toboggan for loose screws or other connecting hardware. Tighten loose screws or nuts and replace any missing hardware. Be aware that some cheaper toboggans use staples on the crosspieces, and these staples can become loose and rusted with use. Remove these staples with needle-nose pliers and replace them with wood screws. Make sure the screws are countersunk so that the bottom surface of the toboggan remains smooth and free of obstructions.

    • 3

      Replace frayed or broken steering rope with new nylon rope. Knot it securely so that steering is as controllable as possible.

    • 4

      Wash the entire toboggan with warm water and a clean cloth rag. Make sure no grit, dirt or sand remains on the bottom surface especially. Dry it off with another clean cloth or let it air dry. Some people use a hairdryer to speed the process. It must be dry for the new wax to adhere.

    • 5

      Scrape off the old wax layer using a car ice scraper. You can also use a paint scraper, putty knife, or cross-country ski wax scraper. Make sure to get all the old wax off.

    • 6

      Apply new wax evenly to the entire bottom surface of the toboggan. Use ski wax and apply it according to the manufacturer's directions, including buffing with a nylon bristle brush. Use glide ski wax, not the gripping type wax used in cross-country skiing. Other wax alternatives include aerosol furniture polish or paraffin. Once the wax is applied in an even layer and buffed, you are ready to take the toboggan to the slopes.