How to Replace Longboard Wheels? Change Your Wheels
Longboarding is an exciting and thrilling activity that lets you experience the outdoors like no other. But as time passes, your longboard wheels will eventually wear out and require a replacement.
Fortunately, replacing your longboard wheels is not rocket science, and it can easily be done with just a few tools and some basic know-how.
Steps to replace longboard wheels
Gather your tools
The first step in replacing longboard wheels is to gather all the necessary tools. These include your skateboard tool or wrench, which you will use to loosen the nuts on the wheels and trucks. You will also need new longboard wheels, bearings, and hardware.
It is important to ensure you have the correct size and type of wheels and bearings for your board. Additionally, you might want some cleaning solution and a towel to wipe down your bearings before installing the new ones.
Remove the old wheels and bearings
In order to replace the wheels on your longboard, you will need to remove the old wheels and bearings.
This can be done using the truck’s axle to pry off the bearings from each wheel.
It is important to remove all eight bearings before moving on to the next step. Once the bearings are removed, you can prepare the new wheels by cleaning them and inserting them into the new wheels.
Clean the bearings and prepare the new wheels
Soak your wheels in warm soapy water for about five minutes and scrub them as needed. This will remove any excess lubricant and dirt that may have built up.
Once they are clean, you can insert the new bearings into the wheels.
Install the new bearings and wheels
Begin by cleaning the bearings with a cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt or grime that may have accumulated. Next, take the new bearings and insert them into the new wheels.
To do this, press down on the bearing until it snaps into place. Once all of the bearings have been inserted, it’s time to mount the new wheels onto the board.
Adjust the tightness of the wheels
Once you have installed your new longboard wheels and bearings, the next step is to adjust the tightness of the wheels. This will ensure that your ride is smooth and stable. Begin by tightening the nut on the axle with a skate tool until the wheel is snug against the truck.
Check for any wobbling or shaking, as it may indicate the wheel is too loose. If so, tighten the nut a little more until the wheel feels stable. On the other hand, if the wheel is too tight, it may hinder your ride and make it difficult to turn. Loosen the nut a bit until the wheel spins more freely, but be sure not to loosen it too much.
Test ride your board to ensure a smooth ride
After installing new wheels and bearings, it is important to take your longboard for a test ride to ensure everything works smoothly.
This will help you detect any problems before you start skating. Find a flat, smooth surface to ride on, and test your board by pushing off with your foot. Notice if the ride feels smooth or if there are any abnormalities. If necessary, adjust the tightness of the nuts on your wheels to find the perfect amount of tension.
FAQs
When To Change Longboard Wheels?
One key question for longboarders is when to change their wheels. It’s important to keep an eye on the condition of your wheels and change them as needed to ensure a smooth and safe ride. The replacement frequency will depend on the individual’s usage, but most people need to replace their longboard wheels every few months. Signs that it’s time to change include flat spots on the wheels, excessive wear, or if the wheels start to cone. This can affect the ride and stability of your board.
Are Longboard Wheels Universal?
All longboard wheels are not universal, though a few companies make wheels that will fit on any longboard. However, most companies make wheels designed specifically for certain types of riding and decks. Choosing the right wheels for your longboard is important to ensure proper performance and handling.
Can You Flip Longboard Wheels?
Yes, you can flip longboard wheels, but it is important to note that it may affect the performance of your board. Flipping the wheels means swapping the positions of the wheels on the axle, so that the worn-down side of the wheel is now on the opposite side. This can give you a little more life out of your wheels, but it may also affect the traction and grip of the board, making it slide unpredictably. It’s important to consider the riding you’ll be doing and the condition of the wheels before deciding to flip them.
Do I Need To Change My Longboard Wheels If I See A Flat Spot?
If you see a flat spot on your longboard wheels, it is a sign that they need to be replaced. Flat spots occur when the wheel loses its round shape due to excessive wear or sudden stops. This can cause a rough ride and decreased performance. It’s important to replace your wheels to avoid any safety issues or damage to your longboard.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Longboard Wheels?
The cost of new wheels can vary depending on the brand and quality. Branded longboard wheels can cost between $30 to $60, while generic wheels cost around $15 to $25. Additionally, replacing bearings can add to the overall cost, with prices ranging anywhere from $16 to $60. While it may seem like a lot of money, investing in high-quality wheels and bearings can greatly improve the performance and longevity of your longboard.
Why Is It Important To Replace Your Longboard Bearings?
The longevity of your longboard bearings plays a significant role in your ride quality. While they may not directly impact your speed, they determine how effortlessly your wheels spin and how much effort you will need to put into pushing your board.
Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can build up inside the bearings, causing them to wear out faster, rust, and make unpleasant noises. That’s why it’s important to replace your bearings every 1 to 2 years to ensure a smooth and effortless ride.
I am a longboarding enthusiast and a blogger. On this blog, I share tips, tricks, and advice based on my experience. I am dedicated to helping newbies improve their skills and enjoy this fun activity to the fullest.
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