How to Change Skateboard Wheels
Changing your skateboard wheels is basic maintenance and can be done with a few tools. If you have the right materials, swapping your wheels is an easy task you can complete at home or the skatepark.
How often should you change your wheels and bearings?
You’ll know when the time is right but it all depends on how often you skate. Skateboard wheels tend to last a long time but once they start to cone or flat spots appear, it’s a good indication it’s time for some freshies.
The same can be said for your bearings if you don’t keep them clean or skate in the rain regularly, they won’t last.
Advice to extend Lifespan
To extend the lifespan of a wheel try and avoid rough ground (rocks and gravel). It's a bit harder if you are a street skater. Rough surfaces can cause damage to your wheels, leading to flat spots and reduced wheel performance.
You can rotate your wheels. For example, if your front wheels are wearing down faster than your back wheels, swap them so that the back wheels are now on the front of the skateboard. This will help distribute the wear and tear more evenly across all four wheels, extending their lifespan.
Materials needed
- T-shaped skate tool
- Trucks or a skate tool with a bearing removal attachment
- New skateboard wheels
Steps
1: Remove Your Old Wheels
Undo the axle nuts with your skate tool and slide the wheels off the truck. Don’t lose the washers that sit on either side of the wheel, you’ll need them later.
2: Remove Bearings from Old Wheels
Pop the bearings out of the wheel by prying them out with the truck axle. Just slide the wheel on halfway so just one bearing is on the axle and then twist the wheel outwards and around until it pops out. Repeat this process for the other side. You may have spacers that sit between the two bearings, so keep those to the side too.
3: Put Bearings into New Wheels
Slide a bearing, shield-side down onto the truck, then take your new wheel and press it onto the bearing until it pops in. You’ll need to put some weight down to get it on but it will pop straight back in. Flip the wheel over, repeat the process and you’re done. Remember to pop the spacer back in before you install the second bearing if you use them.
4: Putting Your New Wheels on
The next step is easy. All you have to do is place your wheels on the axle, make sure you put those washers on either side of the wheel and tighten up the axle bolt until your wheels are secure and spin freely. Make sure you don’t over-tighten.
To make things even easier, we have this awesome video guide on how to change your skateboard wheels...
So there we have it. Hopefully now you'll be a pro at changing your skateboard's wheels. After a few go's, you'll be able to do it blindfolded. Don't forget to keep checking our Youtube channel and blog for more guides and how to's. If you're looking for a massive range of skateboards, then you're also in the right place. Sign up to our newsletter to get 5% off your first purchase and keep up to date with all the latest offers and news. See you soon!
