How to mount saddle plate on dressage saddles

[shantihorse]

Hi!

I ordered a really nice name plate from Dover like a year ago and never put in on my saddle because I have no idea how to do it properly!

Anyone know the best way to do it? I have a wintec isabell saddle, so it's synthetic.

Thanks so much!

[CatOnLap]

I have no idea if you can attach it to a wintec. Usually, saddle plates come with two tiny screws, meant to screw directly into the wooden cantle of a standard tree. I don't know if I'd want to put holes in a synthetic saddle covering to admit the screws, even if they would screw into plastic. Leather is somewhat self healing when punctured, but synthetics tend to tear and crack around holes.

[KatherineC]

Don't mount it. I just bought a Sommer saddle and it had a huge name plate on the back which I promptly removed. The name plate (if mounted straight) will give away any crookedness that might creep into your riding.

Sorry....probably not the answer you were looking for in your post.

[Puddin Pie]

My saddler put the nameplate on my wintec pro. It is not something I would do myself (botched it up badly on a cheapo saddle once), so I would see if you have a tack shop that does leather repair help you out.

[GreyGelding]

You can use a really sharp and fine awl (woodworking tool) to start the point where you will put the nails (or small screws into the saddle tree). It's easier to keep the nails straight when you have a pre-started hole. I use a small, or jewelers, hammer to give the nails a wack! I also prefer small nails over the screws. I angle the nails slightly inwards to lock the plate into place. I have had more trouble getting those little screws in! You can by a box of tiny brass nails for a few bucks.

Good luck!

[Quest52]

step one- take it to the tack shop
step two- ask them to put it on
step three- pay them and take your saddle home

[dbadaro]

step one- take it to the tack shop
step two- ask them to put it on
step three- pay them and take your saddle home

great answer!

[mybeau1999]

I had a name plate on my old wintec. I had a person at the store where I bought it put it on. He said wintecs are a pain, but it can be done.

Said nameplate fell out about 2 1/2 years later:rolleyes:

[bevs_stuff]

I waited till my saddle needed to be refitted and had the saddler put it on. Took him all of about 30 seconds and it was perfectly straight the first time.

[NEHunter]

You can use a really sharp and fine awl (woodworking tool) to start the point where you will put the nails (or small screws into the saddle tree). It's easier to keep the nails straight when you have a pre-started hole. I use a small, or jewelers, hammer to give the nails a wack! I also prefer small nails over the screws. I angle the nails slightly inwards to lock the plate into place. I have had more trouble getting those little screws in! You can by a box of tiny brass nails for a few bucks.

Good luck!

Above is how I how I have installed in with placing it with scotch tape prior to putting it on to ensure it is straight.

[shantihorse]

Don't mount it. I just bought a Sommer saddle and it had a huge name plate on the back which I promptly removed. The name plate (if mounted straight) will give away any crookedness that might creep into your riding.

Sorry....probably not the answer you were looking for in your post.

That might be a good thing! Then I can work on fixing my crookedness!