How To Change Wheel Bearings

If you're serious about becoming a skateboarder, you're going to have to find out how to change wheel bearings. These play a large role in your skateboard's handling, so it's best to change them when they're broken or simply worn out.

To change wheel bearings you will need:

• a skate key
• screw driver
• wrench

1. Use the skate key to remove the wheels and anything you may have installed on them. Make sure to keep the spacers if you don't have new ones.
2. Pop the bearings off the skate axle or a screwdriver. You can also do this with the correct tools but it's usually more convenient to just pry it loose, carefully, with the end of the axle.
3. Remove all wheel bearings carefully to avoid damaging the wheels. There should be eight of them. Also, oiling your wheel bearings is highly recommended for better handling.
4. Place half of the new or reused bearings. One at a time, make sure to fit them snug and tight but don't force any of them.
5. Next, align the wheel bearings. Do this by pushing equally on either sides of the bearing's rim up against the wheels. Avoid making contact with the center of the bearing.
6. Insert the spacers. If you're using them, you can insert each of them right next to it's bearing to make sure there's enough space between.
7. Insert the final wheel bearing. This should be next to the first bearing or the spacer. Again, tighten it by pushing or using a tool of some sort.
8. Start reattaching the wheels to the trucks. Using a nut, make sure each wheel is tight, but not to the extent to where it may damage the bearing.
9. Test your skateboard. After everything has been assembled, double check and make any necessary adjustments. The bearing should be no more loose than 3/4 of it's strongest hold.

 It's not difficult to change wheel bearings, so that skateboard should be running pretty smoothly now. Skateboard shops usually offer this service free of charge, but as you can see it's an easy process that anyone is capable of performing.