Welcome to our comprehensive guide on ‘How to Put Skateboard Wheels On.’
Whether you’re a beginner looking to set up your first skateboard or a seasoned skater seeking a wheel replacement, this step-by-step tutorial will walk you through the process with clarity and ease.
Properly mounting skateboard wheels is a fundamental skill every skateboarder should master to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
So, let’s start the journey to get those wheels rolling!
Putting skateboard wheels on is a relatively straightforward process.
You’ll need a skateboard tool or a set of skate tools to complete the job.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Tools you’ll need:
- Skateboard deck with trucks already attached
- Skateboard wheels (typically sold in sets of four)
- Skateboard bearings (two for each wheel)
- Skateboard tool or wrench
Steps:
Gather your materials:
Ensure you have all the necessary components: skateboard deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings.
Prepare the deck:
Place your skateboard deck on a clean, flat surface with the grip tape facing up.
If your trucks are already attached, ensure that they are secure.
You can refer to the manufacturer’s instructions if you need to attach the trucks.
Insert bearings into wheels:
Each skateboard wheel requires two bearings.
Bearings are small, round components that allow the wheels to spin.
To insert them:
-Hold a wheel with one hand.
-Press one bearing into the center hole on one side of the wheel.
You can use the palm of your hand to apply even pressure until it’s seated properly.
-Place the second bearing onto the other side of the wheel, ensuring that the bearings are properly aligned.
Attach wheels to the trucks:
To attach the wheels to the trucks:
Position a wheel over the exposed end of a truck axle.
Press the wheel onto the axle until it’s snug against the truck hanger.
Repeat this process for all four wheels.
Tighten the nuts:
Each wheel has a nut on the outside of the truck axle.
Use your skateboard tool or a wrench to tighten these nuts.
Be sure not to overtighten, as it can impede the wheel’s ability to spin.
You want them tight enough to prevent wobbling but loose enough to allow the wheels to spin freely.
Test your skateboard:
Give your skateboard a test ride once all the wheels are securely attached and tightened.
Make sure the wheels spin smoothly, and the board is stable.
Make adjustments:
If the wheels are too tight or too loose, adjust the tightness of the nuts on the axles until you find the right balance.
You can also fine-tune the tightness according to your riding preference.
That’s it! You’ve successfully put skateboard wheels on your deck.
Remember that regular maintenance, including checking the tightness of the wheel nuts and replacing worn-out bearings, is essential to ensure your skateboard performs well over time.
FAQs
How do you flip skateboard wheels?
Flipping skateboard wheels refers to flipping the wheels’ orientation to even out wear and tear.
This involves removing the wheels and putting them back on with the opposite side facing out.
Are 84B wheels hard?
84B wheels fall into the category of rugged wheels.
On the B durometer scale, they read 20 points higher than their A-scale counterparts, equivalent to 104A wheels.
These extra-hard wheels provide several advantages, including enhanced speed, superior rebound, and exceptional slide performance when required.
Are 101A wheels too hard?
101A wheels’ remarkable hardness translates to rapid slides, quick acceleration, and impressive top speeds, making them an ideal choice for technical skateboarding.
Nevertheless, rugged wheels may not offer the smoothest ride on rough or excessively slippery surfaces.
What is a soft skateboard wheel?
Softer wheels are prized for their superior grip, commonly found on longboards as ‘cruiser wheels, which ensure smooth and fast rides.
In contrast, harder wheels are tailored for traditional skateboards and skatepark use.
How to clean skateboard wheels?
When cleaning skateboard wheels, a helpful approach is to soak your wheels in a container or sink with warm water and dishwashing soap.
While the wheels are soaking in the soapy, warm water, take this opportunity to remove the bearings from each wheel.
This soaking process aids in dissolving dirt and grime accumulated within the bearing beds, setting the stage for smoother rides.
In conclusion
You’ve learned the essential steps to put skateboard wheels on your deck.
Following this guide, you’ve acquired the knowledge and skills to maintain and customize your skateboard for a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
Regularly inspect and maintain your wheels to ensure peak performance and safety.
With these skills in your skateboarding arsenal, you can hit the streets or skatepark with confidence and style. Keep shredding, and enjoy the ride!
