Embarking on the captivating journey of skateboarding requires an essential first step: skillfully attaching wheels to your trusty deck. While this task may seem daunting, fear not! With the guidance of this comprehensive guide, you will effortlessly master the art of wheel installation, transforming your skateboard into a sleek and agile companion ready to conquer the urban landscape.
Before embarking on this endeavor, gather the necessary components: your skateboard deck, four wheels, eight bearings, and a skateboard tool. Ensure that the bearings fit snugly into the wheels by inserting them and spinning them; any resistance indicates an incorrect fit. Next, place one bearing into each wheel and slide them onto the axles of your skateboard deck. Secure the wheels in place by tightening the axle nuts using your skateboard tool. As you tighten, alternate between the two axle nuts on each side to ensure even pressure distribution and prevent potential warping of the deck.
To finalize the wheel installation process, inspect the tightness of the axle nuts. They should be sufficiently snug to keep the wheels firmly in place, yet allow for smooth rotation without excessive resistance. If the nuts are too loose, the wheels may wobble or come off during use, compromising your safety and inhibiting your skateboarding experience. Conversely, overtightening the axle nuts can damage the bearings or axles. By following these meticulous steps, you have successfully transformed your skateboard deck into a fully assembled and ready-to-ride marvel, empowering you to navigate the streets with style, confidence, and an unparalleled sense of exhilaration.
Choosing the Right Wheels for Your Skateboard
Selecting the appropriate wheels for your skateboard is crucial as they play a significant role in your riding experience and overall performance. Consider the following factors when choosing wheels:
Size (Diameter)
Wheel size is measured in millimeters and typically ranges from 48mm to 65mm. Larger wheels provide more stability and roll faster, making them suitable for experienced riders, downhill skating, and cruising. Smaller wheels, on the other hand, are more maneuverable and ideal for street skating, tricks, and technical maneuvers.
Durometer (Hardness)
Durometer, measured in the “A” scale, indicates the hardness of the wheels. Softer wheels (45A-55A) provide more grip and cushion, making them appropriate for rough surfaces and technical skateboarding. Harder wheels (95A-100A) are more durable, roll faster, and slide more easily, making them suitable for experienced riders and smooth surfaces.
Width (Contact Patch)
The width of the wheels affects the stability and grip of your skateboard. Wider wheels provide more stability and traction, while narrower wheels offer increased maneuverability and responsiveness. Consider your riding style and preferences when selecting the width of your wheels.
Additionally, consider your weight, riding terrain, and personal preferences. Refer to the table below for general guidelines on wheel size and durometer for different riding styles:
| Riding Style | Wheel Size (mm) | Durometer (A) |
|---|---|---|
| Street | 48-52 | 95-100 |
| Cruising | 54-58 | 78-87 |
| Downhill | 60-65 | 75-85 |
Gathering Essential Tools
Before embarking on your skateboard assembly journey, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools. These tools will empower you to execute the task with precision and ease.
Essential Tools for Skateboard Assembly
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Phillips Head Screwdriver | For tightening the screws that hold the trucks, the components that connect the wheels to the deck. |
| Allen Key Set | For adjusting the tightness of the axle nuts, which secure the wheels to the trucks. |
| Skate Tool | This compact, multi-purpose tool combines a Phillips head screwdriver, Allen keys, and a bearing press, making it an indispensable companion for skateboard maintenance. |
| Bearing Press (Optional) | If your skate tool does not include a bearing press, consider purchasing one separately. It will help you effortlessly press bearings into your wheels. |
| Mask or Dust Cloth (Optional) | To protect yourself from inhaling sawdust while drilling holes for the trucks. |
Remember, high-quality tools will make the assembly process smoother and yield better results. Invest in decent tools that will serve you well in the long run.
Removing the Old Wheels
Removing the old wheels from your skateboard is a relatively simple process. However, there are a few things you need to do to make sure you do it correctly and avoid damaging your board or wheels. Here are the steps on how to remove the old wheels:
1. Gather your tools. You will need a skateboard tool or a wrench to remove the nuts that hold the wheels on. You may also want to have a pair of gloves to protect your hands.
2. Loosen the nuts. Use the skateboard tool or wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the wheels on. Do not remove the nuts completely at this point.
3. Remove the wheels. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the wheels from the axle. To do this, simply pull the wheels straight off of the axle. If the wheels are stuck, you may need to use a little bit of force to remove them.
| Tips for Removing Old Wheels: | To Avoid: |
|---|---|
| Use a clean surface | Rust and debris build-up |
| Wear gloves for protection | Bruises and injuries |
| Apply penetrating oil if necessary | Stubborn nuts and bolts |
| Use the correct tool | Stripped nuts or damaged axles |
Cleaning the Axles
The axles are the metal rods that connect the wheels to the deck. They can get dirty and rusty over time, which can make it difficult to roll smoothly. To clean the axles, you will need:
- A rag or paper towels
- A mild cleaner (such as dish soap or rubbing alcohol)
- A wire brush (optional)
To clean the axles, follow these steps:
- Remove the wheels from the skateboard.
- Apply a small amount of cleaner to a rag or paper towel.
- Wipe down the axles with the cleaner.
- If the axles are very dirty, you can use a wire brush to remove any stubborn dirt or rust.
- Rinse the axles with water.
- Dry the axles with a clean rag or paper towel.
- Reattach the wheels to the skateboard.
Table of Tools and Materials:
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rag or paper towels | As needed |
| Mild cleaner (dish soap or rubbing alcohol) | Small amount |
| Wire brush (optional) | 1 |
Installing the New Bearings
Before installing the new bearings, ensure that they are the correct size for your skateboard wheels. Bearings come in different sizes, so measure the inner and outer diameter of your wheels to determine the correct bearing size.
To install the bearings, follow these steps:
1.
Place the bearing on a flat surface.
2.
Align the wheel with the bearing, making sure that the wheel’s bearing seat is facing the bearing.
3.
Press the wheel onto the bearing by hand or using a bearing press tool to avoid damaging the bearing.
4.
Repeat for the other three wheels.
5.
Detailed Explanation of Step 5:
When pressing the wheel onto the bearing, use even pressure to ensure that the bearing is seated evenly within the wheel’s bearing seat. If the bearing is not seated properly, it may cause premature wear and damage.
If you are using a bearing press tool, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging the bearings or wheels.
| Bearing Size | Wheel Inner Diameter | Wheel Outer Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| 608 | 8 mm | 22 mm |
| 6901 | 10 mm | 28 mm |
| 6902 | 12 mm | 32 mm |
Mounting the Wheels onto the Axles
1. Identify the correct wheels for your axles: Ensure that the wheels you have chosen fit the diameter and width of your axles.
2. Slide the bearings into the wheels: Take the bearings and carefully insert them into the wheel’s inner core, ensuring they are fully seated.
3. Place the wheels onto the axles: Align the wheels with the axles and slide them onto the shafts. Ensure that the wheels are centered properly.
4. Add the washers or spacers (optional): Depending on the axles you have, you may need to add washers or spacers to fill the gap between the wheel and the axle. This helps to prevent the bearings from rubbing against the axle.
5. Insert the axle nuts: Take the axle nuts and thread them onto the ends of the axles. Tighten them securely, but avoid overtightening.
6. Safety check and adjustments: Spin the wheels to ensure they rotate smoothly and without any wobbling. Adjust the axle nuts as necessary to eliminate any looseness or binding. If you encounter any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section.
Note: The specific steps may vary slightly depending on the type of axles and wheels you are using. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions included with your components.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter any issues while mounting the wheels onto the axles, check the following:
| Issue | Possible Causes |
|---|---|
| Wheels wobbly | – Bearings not fully seated in wheels – Axle nuts not tightened properly – Warped wheels |
| Wheels binding | – Bearings overtightened – Axle washers or spacers not properly installed – Axle bent or damaged |
| Wheels not spinning smoothly | – Bearings dirty or damaged – Axle nuts rubbing against bearings |
Tightening the Nuts
Now it’s time to tighten the nuts onto the bolts. This is a critical step, as improperly tightened nuts can lead to loose wheels or even the loss of a wheel while skating. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tightening the nuts securely:
- Place the washer on the bolt between the wheel and the bearing.
- Thread the nut onto the bolt by hand until it’s finger-tight.
- Use a skate tool or a wrench to further tighten the nut. Make sure to hold the wheel in place with your other hand.
- Tighten the nut firmly, but avoid overtightening, as this can damage the bearings or strip the threads.
- Check the tightness of all four nuts by spinning each wheel. The wheels should rotate smoothly without any play or looseness.
- Repeat this process for the remaining three wheels.
- Once all the wheels are tightened, double-check the tightness by lifting the skateboard and spinning each wheel again. If any wheel wobbles or moves loosely, tighten the corresponding nuts further.
Double-Checking Alignment
To ensure your skateboard rolls smoothly and efficiently, it’s crucial to double-check the alignment of the wheels before tightening the nuts. Here’s how:
Step 1: Check from Above
Place the skateboard on a flat surface. Look down on it from above to verify that all four wheels are parallel to each other. Any noticeable misalignment will hinder the skateboard’s performance.
Step 2: Check from the Side
Bend down and observe the skateboard from the side. Inspect the wheels from both sides, ensuring they are equidistant from the center of the board. Any variations in spacing can result in uneven wear and a bumpy ride.
Step 3: Check from Behind
Position yourself behind the skateboard and inspect the wheels from the back. Make sure they are perpendicular to the surface they are resting on. If there’s any angle or tilt, it will affect the skateboard’s stability and responsiveness.
| Perspective | Alignment Check |
|---|---|
| Above | Parallel wheels |
| Side | Equidistant wheels from board center |
| Behind | Wheels perpendicular to the ground |
Riding and Adjusting for Optimal Performance
Getting your wheels snugly fitted onto your board is just the start of your skateboarding journey. To get the most out of your ride, it’s crucial to pay attention to the nuances of skateboarding and tweak settings to suit your individual style and preferences.
1. Stance
The position of your feet on the board greatly impacts your balance and control. Experiment with different stances until you find one that feels natural and stable.
2. Body Positioning
Your body weight distribution is also essential. Keep your weight centered over the board, leaning forward slightly for added stability and backward to initiate slides.
3. Pushing Technique
Effective pushing involves a combination of foot placement and body motion. Position your back foot on the tail and push with your front foot while keeping your weight over the front axle.
4. Cornering
Mastering the art of carving is key to smooth and controlled turns. Lean into the direction you want to go, and use your weight to guide the board.
5. Speed Control
Braking effectively requires practice. Drag your tail on the ground or use your foot to apply pressure against the wheels to slow down or stop.
6. Tricks
Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to explore the exciting world of skateboarding tricks. Experiment with ollies, kickflips, and other maneuvers to express your creativity.
7. Troubleshooting
Encounters with obstacles or uneven terrain are inevitable. Learn how to handle these challenges gracefully by maintaining balance and adjusting your stance as needed.
8. Adjusting Truck Tension
Tightening or loosening the trucks impacts the board’s responsiveness and stability. Adjust the bolts to find a balance between maneuverability and control.
9. Wheel Size and Hardness
The size and hardness of your wheels influence various aspects of your ride, from speed to grip. Smaller, harder wheels provide better speed and stability on smooth surfaces, while larger, softer wheels offer more grip and comfort on rougher terrain. Consider your riding style and the environments you’ll be skating in when selecting your wheels.
Here’s a table summarizing the relationship between wheel size and hardness and their effects on your ride:
| Wheel Size | Wheel Hardness | Effects on Ride |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Hard | Fast, stable on smooth surfaces |
| Large | Soft | More grip, comfort on rough terrain |
Materials You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following materials:
– Skateboard deck
– 4 skateboard wheels
– 8 skateboard bearings
– Skate tool or wrench
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Insert Bearings into Wheels: Place two bearings inside each wheel.
2. Slide Wheel onto Axle: Align the wheel with the axle hole on the truck. Slide the wheel onto the axle.
3. Add Spacer (Optional): Some wheels have spacers that go between the bearings. If yours do, add one onto the axle after the first wheel.
4. Add Second Wheel: Slide the second wheel onto the axle, aligning it with the first wheel. Press it down firmly.
5. Tighten Axle Nut: Use the skate tool or wrench to tighten the axle nut until it’s snug but not overtightened.
6. Repeat for Other Truck: Repeat steps 1-5 for the other truck.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Wheels Are Not Spinning Freely
Cause: Bearings are not lubricated or are damaged.
Solution: Clean and lubricate the bearings with skateboard bearing oil. If the bearings are damaged, replace them.
The Axle Nut Is Too Tight
Cause: Overtightening can damage the bearings.
Solution: Loosen the axle nut until the wheels spin freely without any wobble.
How To Put Wheels On A Skateboard
Putting wheels on a skateboard is a simple task that can be completed in just a few minutes. With the right tools and materials, you can easily get your skateboard up and running in no time.
To get started, you will need the following:
- A skateboard
- Four skateboard wheels
- Eight skateboard bearings
- A skateboard tool or wrench
Once you have all of your materials, you can begin the process of putting the wheels on your skateboard.
First, you will need to remove the old wheels from your skateboard. To do this, simply use your skateboard tool or wrench to loosen the nuts that are holding the wheels in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the wheels off of the axles.
Next, you will need to insert the bearings into the wheels. To do this, simply press the bearings into the wheels until they are fully seated. Once the bearings are in place, you can place the wheels onto the axles.
Finally, you will need to tighten the nuts that are holding the wheels in place. To do this, simply use your skateboard tool or wrench to tighten the nuts until they are snug. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the wheels or the bearings.
Once the wheels are tight, you are ready to start riding your skateboard. Enjoy!
People Also Ask
How do you put wheels on a skateboard Penny board?
Putting wheels on a Penny board is a similar process to putting wheels on a regular skateboard. First, you will need to remove the old wheels by loosening the nuts that are holding them in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the wheels off of the axles.
Next, you will need to insert the bearings into the wheels. To do this, simply press the bearings into the wheels until they are fully seated. Once the bearings are in place, you can place the wheels onto the axles.
Finally, you will need to tighten the nuts that are holding the wheels in place. To do this, simply use your skateboard tool or wrench to tighten the nuts until they are snug. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the wheels or the bearings.
Once the wheels are tight, you are ready to start riding your Penny board. Enjoy!
What size wheels do I need for my skateboard?
The size of the wheels that you need for your skateboard will depend on the type of riding that you plan to do. If you are planning on doing a lot of street skating, then you will want to choose smaller wheels, such as 52mm or 54mm wheels. These wheels are more maneuverable and allow you to do tricks more easily.
If you are planning on doing a lot of cruising or downhill skating, then you will want to choose larger wheels, such as 56mm or 58mm wheels. These wheels are faster and more stable, which makes them ideal for long distances or high speeds.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right size wheels for your skateboard is to experiment with different sizes and see what works best for you.
How often should I replace my skateboard wheels?
The lifespan of your skateboard wheels will depend on how often you ride and the type of riding that you do. If you are riding your skateboard frequently and doing a lot of tricks, then you will need to replace your wheels more often. Generally speaking, you should replace your wheels every 6 months to 1 year.
However, if you are only riding your skateboard occasionally and not doing a lot of tricks, then you may be able to get away with replacing your wheels less often. Ultimately, the best way to determine when to replace your wheels is to inspect them regularly and look for signs of wear and tear.
