Proper maintenance of your skateboard’s bearings is essential for optimal performance, a smoother ride, and the longevity of your setup.
Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or just starting, this guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your bearings are clean, well-lubricated, and ready to roll.
Keeping your bearings in top condition is a fundamental aspect of skateboarding, and with our step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn the best practices to maintain them at their best.
Let’s dive in and give your skateboard the care it deserves.
Cleaning skateboard bearings is an essential maintenance task that can help improve the performance and longevity of your skateboard.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to clean skateboard bearings:
Materials you’ll need:
- Skate tool or wrench
- A skate bearing tool (optional but helpful)
- A small container or jar
- Skateboard bearing cleaner (optional but recommended)
- Solvent (such as acetone or isopropyl alcohol)
- Lubricant (skateboard bearing oil or speed cream)
- Paper towels or clean rags
- Safety goggles and gloves (for handling solvents)
Step 1: Remove the Bearings
Use your skate tool or wrench to remove the wheels from your skateboard.
You must remove the nuts and washers on both sides of each wheel.
Once the wheels are off, use your skate-bearing tool or the axle of your skateboard truck to gently pop the bearings out of the wheels.
Be careful not to damage the bearings or the wheels in the process.
Step 2: Prepare the Bearings for Cleaning
Place the removed bearings in a small container or jar, arranging them so they all face the same direction.
This will help you keep track of which side is which when reassembling.
Step 3: Clean the Bearings
Add a skateboard bearing cleaner or a small amount of solvent (acetone or isopropyl alcohol) to the container with the bearings.
Ensure that the bearings are fully submerged in the solvent.
Seal the container and gently shake it to agitate the solvent.
You’ll notice that the solvent becomes dirty as it dislodges dirt, grime, and old lubricant from the bearings.
Let the bearings soak in the solvent for a few minutes to clean them thoroughly.
You may need to shake the container periodically during this time.
After soaking, remove the bearings from the container and use a paper towel or clean rag to wipe off any remaining dirt and solvent.
Be sure to clean both the inside and outside of the bearings.
Step 4: Dry the Bearings
Allow the cleaned bearings to air dry completely.
You can speed up the drying process by using compressed air to blow out any remaining solvent.
Make sure there’s no moisture left in the bearings.
Step 5: Lubricate the Bearings
Apply skateboard bearing oil or speed cream to each bearing.
Add a few drops of lubricant to the inside of the bearing, ensuring that it spreads evenly.
You don’t need to overdo it; a little lubricant goes a long way.
Step 6: Reassemble the Bearings
Place the bearings back into the wheels, ensuring they are correctly seated.
Use your skate-bearing tool or your truck’s axle to press them into place.
Reattach the wheels to your skateboard trucks and tighten the nuts and washers.
Step 7: Test the Bearings
Give your skateboard a spin to ensure the bearings rotate smoothly and quietly.
If they’re still making noise or not spinning well, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or consider replacing the bearings.
Regularly maintaining your skateboard bearings will help keep them in good working condition and extend their lifespan.
It’s a good idea to clean and lubricate your bearings every few months or as needed based on your skating habits and conditions.
FAQs
Is vinegar good for cleaning bearings?
No, vinegar is not recommended for cleaning skateboard bearings.
How do I know if my skateboard bearings are bad?
Signs of lousy skateboard bearings include reduced spin time, uneven or noisy spins, wheel wobble, sluggish performance, visible damage, and excessive vibration.
Does water ruin skateboard bearings?
Yes, prolonged exposure to water and moisture can lead to rust and damage in skateboard bearings.
How often do you need to clean skate bearings?
Clean skateboard bearings every few months or as needed based on your skating habits and conditions.
In conclusion
Maintaining clean and well-lubricated skateboard bearings is vital to a great riding experience.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll extend the life of your bearings and improve your overall performance on your board.
Regular maintenance will save you time and money in the long run and ensure a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable ride.
So, give your skateboard the care it deserves, and keep rolling smoothly with confidence.
Happy skating!
