Secure Kiteboard Fin Screws with Teflon Tape

There’s nothing more frustrating than losing a fin as you load for big air, except for maybe having a foot-strap come loose during a bottom turn. While you should always be checking and tightening before each session, there are some things you can do to help reinforce your board screws. And, keep your kiting safer.

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Many use various Lock Tight grades to keep fin and strap screws in place. While it holds, Lock Tight can be messy and make removing your screws difficult. This can be annoying on trips. Plus, I’ve seen Lock Tight considered a security risk at some airports and taken from traveling kiters.

Instead, try using Teflon Tape (AKA Plumber’s Tape). Used for sealing pipe threads water tight, it works great on board screws. It usually costs less than Lock Tight and can be found at any hardware store. Plus, since it’s not a liquid, gel or paste, you’re less likely to deal with Homeland Security.

Simply, wrap a single layer of Teflon Tape around each board screw and tighten as you normally would. You’re board screws will stay tightly in place. And, when your ready to jet set your next launch, removing the screws will be easy since Teflon helps retard salt and sand build up in and around the threads.