Guide: How To Change Skateboard Wheels

Skateboarding, a thrilling sport loved worldwide, takes a toll on our skateboard wheels as we enthusiastically shred through urban landscapes.

As the miles add up and tricks take their toll on our skateboard wheels, those once-smooth wheels begin to show signs of wear and tear, affecting our skateboard ride quality and overall performance.

To keep the stoke alive and ensure your skateboard remains in peak condition, knowing how to replace your wheels is crucial. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner just embarking on this thrilling journey, this article is here to be your ultimate go-to resource for replancing skateboard wheels.

In this guide, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of swapping out those worn-out skateboard wheels, making it easier than ever to keep your skateboard rolling smoothly. From choosing the right set of wheels to mastering the proper techniques for installing wheels, we’ll cover it all. But it doesn’t stop there—get ready to delve into the world of skateboard bearings, understand the significance of riser pads, and gain insights into regular maintenance to prolong the lifespan of your skateboard wheels and ensure an unparalleled ride.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of skateboard maintenance, offering valuable tips, tricks, and expert advice to unleash the true potential of your skateboard. Let’s keep the wheels spinning, the tricks flowing, and the stoke alive—because in the realm of skateboarding, the journey never ends.

Skateboard Wheels

Key Takeaways

• Regularly inspect your skateboard wheels for signs of wear and tear.
• Replace worn-out skateboard wheels to maintain optimal performance and a smooth ride.
• Choose skateboard wheels that match your skateboarding style and terrain.
• Consider changing the skateboard bearings if they are damaged or don’t spin smoothly.
• Use a skateboard tool or a wrench and socket set to loosen and tighten the nuts on the skateboard wheels.
• Test the skateboard for wheel bite after changing to larger wheels or adding riser pads.
• Proper maintenance, including cleaning bearings and adjusting wheels, is essential for extending your skateboard’s lifespan.
• Experiment with different wheel sizes and durometers to find the best setup for your preferences.
• Take care of your skateboard, and it will take care of you—regularly clean and maintain your skateboard to ensure longevity.

How To Replace Skateboard Wheels

Changing skateboard wheels is an essential maintenance task that ensures optimal performance and a smooth skateboarding experience. Over time, skateboard wheels wear down due to regular use, rough surfaces, and tricks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace your skateboard wheels:

Things You Need When Changing Skateboard Wheels

1. Skateboard tool (or a wrench and socket set that fits your skateboard hardware)
2. New skateboard wheels
3. Skateboard bearings (optional if your current ones are worn out)
4. Skateboard deck
5. Skateboard trucks
6. Skateboard riser pads (optional if you want to increase the clearance of the wheels)

Replace Skateboard Wheels: Step-By-Step Process

1. Prepare your workspace: Find a flat, clean surface to work on. Lay down a soft cloth or old towel to prevent scratching your skateboard deck.
2. Loosen the trucks: Use a skate shop tool or a wrench and socket set to loosen the nuts on the street skateboard trucks. Loosening the nut or the axle nut will make it easier to remove the axle nuts and change your wheels later.
3. Remove the old wheels: Once the axle nuts are loose, carefully lift the street skateboard off the ground and hold it with one hand. Use your other hand to pull the back and front wheels off the truck’s axle. Gently wiggle the wheels from side to side while pulling to release the wheels from the bearings.
4. Lift the skateboard off the ground. Once the axle nuts are loose, do this and hold it with one hand. Use your other hand to pull the front wheels and back wheels off the truck’s axle. Gently wiggle the other wheels from side to side while pulling to release the wheels from the bearings.
5. Inspect the skateboard’s bearings: Take a look at the bearings. If they look damaged, rusted, or don’t spin smoothly, consider changing them. Clean and maintain the two bearings regularly to extend their lifespan.
6. Install new bearings (if necessary): If you’re changing the bearings, remove the bearings using a bearing press tool or a skateboard tool. Insert the new bearings by applying even pressure until they are fully seated on the wheels. Make sure they spin freely.
7. Insert the new wheels: Place the new wheels onto the street skateboard trucks’ axles. Ensure that the new wheels fit securely and that the urethane of the new wheels does not touch the street surfing board deck or truck hanger. Push the wheels on firmly, but avoid using excessive force.
8. Tighten the skateboard’s trucks: Once the new wheels are in place, tighten the axle nuts on the street surfing board trucks using your street surfing board tool or wrench. Make sure the wheels spin freely without wobbling. Be cautious not to over-tighten them as it can damage the bearings.
9. Check for wheels’ bite: If you’ve changed to larger wheels or added riser pads, test the street surfing board to make sure there is no wheel bite (when the wheels rub against the street surfing board deck). Adjust the tightness of the trucks or add/remove riser pads if necessary.
10. Test ride: Before going all out, take a short test ride to ensure everything feels good. Make sure the wheels are rotating smoothly and the street surfing board’s stability meets your preference.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your skateboard wheels. Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your bearings and trucks to keep your skateboard in top-notch condition and extend its lifespan. Happy riding!

Conclusion

• Maintaining your street surfing board’s wheels is an essential aspect of being a responsible and skilled skater. By regularly inspecting, cleaning, and replacing worn-out wheels, you ensure a smoother ride, enhanced performance, and a safer street surfing experience. With the knowledge gained from our comprehensive guide, you now have the power to keep your wheels in order and your board rolling at its best.
• Remember to invest in high-quality wheels that suit your street surfing style and preferences. Whether you’re into street skating, cruising, or hitting the skatepark, the right set of wheels can make all the difference. Additionally, pay attention to your bearings and consider changing them when necessary, as they play a vital role in your skateboard’s overall performance.
• Don’t shy away from experimenting with different sizes of wheels and durometers to find what suits you best. Each skateboarder has unique preferences, and it’s all about discovering your perfect setup for the ultimate ride.
• Lastly, we cannot stress enough the significance of regular maintenance. Take good care of your skateboard, and it will take good care of you. Regularly inspect your board, clean the bearings, and adjust the trucks to prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
• With this knowledge and a little love for your street surfing board, you’re now equipped to face any challenges that may come your way. So, roll on, fellow skaters, and keep the wheels spinning as you embrace the exhilarating journey of skateboarding—a never-ending adventure of pushing boundaries, honing skills, and unleashing your inner creativity on four wheels. Happy skateboarding!

Replace Your Skateboard Wheels

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How To Change Skateboard Wheels Without A Proper Tool?

To change skateboard wheels without a skate tool, you can use a few alternative methods. One approach is to find a sturdy flat surface and use your foot to apply pressure while turning the skateboard upside down. This will help you pop the old wheels off and insert the new replacement wheels in place, ensuring the wheels spin smoothly.

How Do I Know If My Skateboard Wheels Are Bad?

You can determine if your skateboard wheels are in need of replacement by checking for signs of wear and tear, such as flat spots, uneven wear, or missing chunks. If your wheels no longer provide a smooth ride or proper grip, it might be time to replace your skateboard wheels and bearings. This is also a good opportunity to inspect your bearing cleaning kit to keep your skateboard in tip-top shape. Additionally, examine the condition of your bearings and speed washers, and consider switching to harder wheels if you prefer higher speeds and smoother slides.

How Do I Know If I Need New Skateboard Wheels?

You’ll know if you need to replace your skateboard wheels by examining their condition for signs of wear and tear, such as a flat spot, uneven wear, or missing chunks. If the wheels show significant wear, have become uneven, or have lost their grip, it’s time for a replacement. Consider upgrading to new wheels that suit your needs, like skateboard truck axle compatibility and improved performance compared to old street skateboards wheels.

When Should I Change The Wheels Of My Board?

It is time to replace skateboard wheels when they show signs of excessive wear, become too flat or squared off, or when the material has become significantly thinner due to prolonged use. It’s advisable to inspect all skateboard parts periodically to ensure optimal performance. Upgrading to softer wheels, adding a bearing spacer, replacing skateboard wheels, and changing old bearings can also enhance the overall performance and smoothness of your ride.

Are Hard Skateboard Wheels Better Than The Soft Wheels?

The choice between replacing hard or soft skateboard wheels depends on your riding style. Hard wheels are better for smooth surfaces and high speeds, providing less grip but more slide. Conversely, soft wheels are ideal for rough terrain and offer better grip, making them more suitable for cruising and tricks. To adjust the wheels’ hardness, you can use a skate tool or wrench to swap out the bearing slides.

Is It Easier To Ollie With Smaller Skateboard Wheels?

Yes, replacing skateboard wheels with smaller ones can make it easier to ollie due to reduced friction and fewer flat spots. Smaller wheels may also offer better grip, aiding in controlling power slides and improving the rotation of the skateboard wheels during tricks.

How Do You Ride A Skateboard Without The Wheels Stopping?

How Do You Pop Out Bearings?

• To replace skateboard wheels, you can pop out the bearings or a single bearing by employing landing tricks and gently applying force onto the axle. Having the right tools for the job, such as an Allen key, can provide the necessary leverage without causing damage. This should facilitate the removal of the wheels, making the process of replacing skateboard wheels straightforward and efficient. Remember to handle the process with care to avoid any damage to the components.

Is 99a On Skateboard Wheels Soft Or Hard?

The 99a refers to the hardness of skateboard wheels used for street surfing. It is considered one of the harder wheels, making it suitable for tricks and technical riding. Replacing two skateboard bearings and adding speed washers can help enhance the overall performance and speed of the street skateboard.

How Do I Know The Axle Nut Size For Skateboard Wheels?

To determine which wheels will fit your skateboard, you need to consider the axle nut size. Before attempting to change skateboard wheels, ensure that the axle nuts of the new wheels match the size of your current ones to ensure a proper fit.

Last Updated on May 1, 2024 by Inma Barquero

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