Skateboarding is a popular sport among people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skater, having the right set of wheels is crucial for a smooth and comfortable ride. However, installing skateboard wheels on your board can be challenging, especially if you are new to the sport. That’s why we’ve created this step-by-step guide to help you put wheels on your skateboard like a pro.
In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about installing skateboard wheels, from selecting the right size and durometer to removing and installing bearings. We’ll also share some tips and tricks to make the process easier and help you avoid common mistakes that could damage your board. So, if you’re ready to upgrade your skateboard with new wheels, let’s get started!
Understanding the Different Types of Skateboard Wheels
Skateboard wheels come in a variety of sizes, colors, and materials. Before learning how to put them on your board, it’s essential to understand the different types of skateboard wheels available in the market. The size of the wheel can vary from 49mm to 75mm, and the hardness is measured in durometer. The lower the number, the softer the wheel, and the higher the number, the harder the wheel.
Skateboard wheels with a lower durometer provide a smooth ride, ideal for cruising around and performing tricks, while wheels with a higher durometer provide better speed and durability, making them perfect for street skating and vert skating. Skateboard wheels are also made of different materials. Polyurethane is the general material used in the manufacturing of skateboard wheels; however, manufacturers use different blends of materials giving the wheels their unique properties. Understanding the different types of skateboard wheels can help in selecting the right wheels for your skating style and getting the most out of your board.
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Getting the Right Tools and Equipment
Before you start putting skateboard wheels on your board, you need to make sure that you have the right tools and equipment. Without the right tools, you won’t be able to put the wheels on your skateboard correctly, which can lead to a dangerous and unstable ride.
Firstly, you will need a set of bearings, which are crucial in transferring your skateboard’s wheels’ motion to the axle. You can purchase bearings from any skateboard store or online retailer. Secondly, you will need a skate tool, which is a specialized wrench designed to fit skateboard hardware. The skate tool has different sizes, including the size of the kingpin, axle nuts, and mounting bolts. With the help of a skate tool, you can quickly and easily remove and tighten the nuts and bolts in the skateboard. Additionally, having a pair of gloves and a damp cloth handy to grip the wheels while you install them can be helpful. Overall, having the right tools and equipment makes the process of putting skateboard wheels on your board much more efficient and makes the ride safer.
Removing Old Wheels from Your Skateboard
Before you can put new wheels on your skateboard, you’ll need to remove the old ones. This may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple. You will need a skateboard tool or a wrench to loosen the bolts holding the wheels on. First off, flip your skateboard over so the wheels are facing you. Using your skateboard tool or wrench, turn each bolt counter-clockwise to loosen them. If the bolts are rusted or difficult to move, try adding some lubricant or penetrating oil to loosen them up.
Once the bolts are loose, carefully slide the wheel off the truck axle – you may need to wiggle it back and forth a little bit to get it off. It’s worth noting that some wheels may be easier to remove than others, depending on how tight or loose they are on the truck. Once you’ve removed all of your skateboard wheels, it’s a good idea to give them a quick clean to remove any dirt, grime or debris that may have built up. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to move onto the next step in the process of putting new wheels on your skateboard.
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Preparing the Bearings for Installation
Before you can install your new skateboard wheels, you need to prepare the bearings for installation. This involves cleaning and lubing the bearings, ensuring they run smoothly and don’t damage your wheels. First, remove the bearings from your old wheels using a skate tool or bearing press. You can clean the bearings using a solvent like acetone or rubbing alcohol and a bearing cleaning kit. Soak the bearings in the solvent for a few minutes and spin them to remove any dirt or debris. Dry the bearings completely with a clean cloth or air compressor.
Once the bearings are clean and dry, it’s time to lube them up. Apply a few drops of skateboard bearing lube to each bearing, making sure to distribute it evenly. Avoid overusing the lube, as it can attract dirt and debris and actually slow down your bearings. Finally, test the bearings by spinning them with your fingers. They should spin smoothly and quietly. If they don’t, try cleaning and lubing them again or consider replacing them. Properly preparing and installing the bearings will ensure that your skateboard wheels perform at their best.
Installing the Skateboard Wheels
Installing the Skateboard Wheels is a crucial step in assembling a skateboard. Before placing the wheels onto the board, it is essential to ensure that the bearings are correctly inserted inside the wheels. The bearings allow the wheels to rotate smoothly, ensuring that the skateboard moves with ease. To install the bearings, use a bearing press or a skateboard tool to press them firmly into the wheel’s center until they fit snugly. Once all the bearings are in place, screw the nut on to hold them in place.
After the bearings are secured, slide the wheels onto the truck’s end, making sure that the wheel is snug against the truck. Tighten the nut on the truck until the wheel sits firmly without any wobbling. Repeat the process for all four wheels, and ensure that they all sit flush with the board and that the nuts are tightened equally. Check that the wheels rotate smoothly and look out for any signs of wobbling or misalignment. With the wheels now securely in place, it’s time to hit the road and enjoy a smooth ride.
Checking for Proper Placement and Tightness
After you have successfully inserted your skateboard wheels onto the trucks, you should check for proper placement and tightness to ensure a safe and comfortable ride. To do this, loosen the axle nut slightly and give each wheel a spin. If the wheel wobbles or rattles, it means that it has not been properly tightened and aligned. Adjust the wheel until it spins smoothly without any wiggle or wobble.
Next, you should check the tightness of the axle nut and make sure it is secure. Use a skate tool or wrench to tighten the nut until it is snug but not overly tight. It is important not to overtighten the nut as this can cause the wheel to stop spinning and reduce the overall speed of your board. Once all four wheels have been checked for proper placement and tightness, you are now ready to hit the streets and enjoy your newly updated skateboard.
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Tips for Maintaining and Replacing Your Skateboard Wheels
As you start to clock up the miles on your skateboard wheels, they’ll eventually wear down, and you’ll need to replace them. Maintaining your wheels is crucial in enhancing their longevity and performance. Clearing dirt and debris from the wheel’s bearings and using lubricants regularly will improve their overall performance significantly.
Be sure to check that the wheels are rolling correctly and inspect them periodically for damage or wear. Signs of wear include flat spots, deformation, and chipping, and if detected, you should consider replacing your wheels. You can also switch up your wheels’ color or style depending on your style preference or for certain types of riding to achieve optimal performance. Keeping a spare set of wheels handy is a great idea as this can help prolong the lifespan of the wheels and improve your overall skating experience.
Conclusion
Putting skateboard wheels on can be a simple process if you have the right tools and steps. Remember to use the correct size wheel for your skateboard and tighten the nut until it is snug but not too tight. Always double-check that the wheel is securely attached before riding your skateboard.
Once you have mastered this skill, you can confidently switch out old or worn wheels for new ones and customize your skateboard to your liking. Whether you are a seasoned skater or just starting, putting skateboard wheels on is an essential skill to have in your toolkit. So, go ahead and get rolling with your newly installed wheels!