5 Reasons Why Your Longboard is Rattling

If you’re an avid longboarder, you’ve probably experienced the frustrating sensation of a rattling board. Not only is it annoying, but it can also be dangerous if left unaddressed. 

Fortunately, there are a number of reasons why your longboard might be rattling, and the solutions are often simple and easy to implement.

Bushings are the likely culprit

Bushings are often the cause of rattling on your longboard, and there are a few reasons why. 

If your bushings are worn out or squashed, they may need to be replaced. Alternatively, you can try getting a slightly taller or harder bushing to help alleviate the noise. 

It’s important to keep your bearings properly spaced and of the same type to avoid dryness and further noise. By addressing these potential issues with your longboard, you can ensure a smoother and quieter ride.

Flat-spotting can cause noise

Another reason why your longboard might be making noise is because of flat spots on the wheels. This can happen when the wheels stay in one position for too long or if the rider constantly skids or slides. 

Flat-spotting causes the wheels to become uneven, which in turn causes the board to make noise. In addition to causing noise, flat-spotting can also affect the overall performance of your longboard. It can cause the wheels to wear out faster and decrease the board’s speed and smoothness. 

Therefore, it’s important to rotate your wheels regularly and avoid skidding or sliding in one spot for too long to prevent flat-spotting.

Improperly fitted washers

Another reason your longboard may be rattling is because of improperly fitted washers. 

Washers that are too small, too big, or simply not positioned on the proper side of the kingpin can all contribute to this problem. 

When washers are not fitted properly, they can hit the kingpin and cause clicking sounds while riding. It’s important to check the size and placement of your washers to ensure they are correctly fitted to the truck. 

By taking the time to properly fit your washers and maintain your bushings, you can eliminate unnecessary noise and ensure a smooth ride on your longboard.

Damaged pivot cup and loose screws

The pivot cup is the spot where the bottom of your truck hanger sits in the baseplate, and if it’s damaged or missing, it can make your board noisy. Additionally, if any parts of your skateboard are loose or not properly tightened, it can cause noise when turning. However, this issue can be easily fixed by checking all of the bolts and making sure everything is tightened in place. 

Don’t let these small issues affect the quality of your ride!

Check all components regularly to ensure that you are getting the best riding experience.

Bearing issues

Dry bearings can also be the reason for the rattling of your longboard. Improper spacing between the bearings can cause them to grind against each other, resulting in a loud noise. 

Different types of bearings may also cause this issue, as they vary in size and shape. It is important to regularly lubricate your bearings to prevent them from drying out and causing noise. 

Prolonged exposure to moisture can also lead to rusting, which is another cause of the problem. Therefore, it is recommended to keep your bearings clean and dry to ensure a smooth and quiet ride. 

Addressing dry bearings along with other potential causes can help you pinpoint the issue and ensure your longboard rides smoothly and quietly.

Williams Jayson

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.