The Luge Sled
The sled is an athlete's most important piece of equipment. Sleds have three main components:
- Pod - where the athlete lays
- Kuffins - for driving the sled with the leg
- Steels - metal runners the sled rides on
Sled Care
The first thing athletes learn about sled maintenance is to take care of their steels (the metal part that the sled rides on). To do this you need:
- a large, fine to medium, metal file
- acetone, gloves and paper towel or soft cloth
- 200 grit
- 320 grit
- 400 grit
- 600 grit
- 800 grit
- 1000 grit
- 2000 grit
Remember to get sandpaper that works on metal (usually black). It's available at most hardware stores in the automotive department. Once you reach Development Level A, you'll also need 'Diamond Paste'. This fine-grit paste really shines up the edge of your steels on race day.
You also need a place to store your sandpaper. Heavy duty large ziplock bags or a 10-slot plastic file folder work well.
Tools
Development Level athletes will need to ensure that the bolts are tight on their sled. This is very important for safety as the bolts can come loose from the vibrations of the sled racing down the track. Since these bolts hold the sled together, you want to make sure that they are checked and tightened regularly.
The specific tools required will depend on the sled you have, but you will likely need alan keys, a large screwdriver and a wrench. Remember to also pick up a lockable toolbox to store everything in. Talk to your coach about the specific tool sizes for your sled.
