Skateboard Maintenance
Skateboards do require some maintenance. Because of physical aspects of skating, nuts and bolts can jiggle loose. Parts wear out which cause safety problems and will lessen the life of your board as a whole. By looking over you skateboard, you can make minor adjustments as needed to avoid any unnecessary damage to your board, and more importantly to yourself.
Decks
Skateboard decks are made of wood ply that is pressed together and glued. Due to the rough nature that comes into play when skateboarding, it is inevitable that at some point, you will need to replace your board. Minor cracks are not uncommon. Boards need to be replaced when they are cracked badly.
Grip Tape
Grip tape can be cleaned by using a plastic bristle brush and some water. Do not use too much water. After toweling off, leave the board in the sun to dry.
Hardware
All hardware, whether you are speaking of the truck mounting or the wheel lock nuts, come loose after riding due to vibrations. It is a good habit to check hardware before each session. Make sure that all hardware is tightened securely. Keep in mind that after repeated tightening and loosening, hardware will need replacement.
Trucks
The rubber bushings of trucks tend to get smooshed after awhile. Replacing them is a simple and inexpensive way to up the life of your trucks as well as making old trucks ride like new. The actual truck needs to be replaced if there are any cracks in either the baseplate or the hanger.
Wheels
Wheels are meant to be smooth. While riding, it is possible that over time, large chunks of the urethane will wear away. This is a sign that it is time to obtain new wheels. Another thing to watch out for is the gradual erosion of the wheel-bearing seat. When the bearings pop out too easily, a justified replacement is at hand.
Bearings
Some bearings are not serviceable due to a protective, unmovable shield. But those that are should be serviced when the wheels stop spinning freely. If a little noise is heard or your ride feels a little rough, it’s time to clean them. Simply remove the bearings from the wheel, pop off the shields, spray them out with citrus cleaner (degreaser), let them dry, add lubricant, and put them back together. Powell Speed Cream serves as a great lubricant. Something else you may want to look into is Consolidated Daredevil Bearing Antiseptic Spray. It dissolves grime and coats the bearings to inhibit rust, extending the life of your bearings. |
