Knowing how to install trucks on a skateboard is key for any skateboard lover. It helps improve your ride and lets you make it your own. This guide has simple steps on skateboard assembly. They make sure you can put on your trucks without a hitch. You’ll learn about the truck baseplate, kingpin assembly, hanger, bushings, and washers. This knowledge lets you see what makes a skateboard work well.
We will take you through choosing the right tools and preparing your skateboard deck. Then, we explain how to place and align your trucks correctly. Finally, we’ll show how to lock them in place with hardware. These steps ensure a safe and fun time customizing your skateboard.
Starting a DIY skateboard project lets you create a board that fits your style. Installing trucks properly affects your ride and keeps you safe. Now, let’s start and get those trucks on right!
Understanding the Components of Skateboard Trucks
Skateboard trucks are key for how your skateboard works and performs. Knowing about their parts is useful for customization and keeping your skateboard running well.
Truck Baseplate
The truck baseplate is vital. It connects to your skateboard’s deck and provides a steady base. It has screw holes and a pivot for the hanger. The right baseplate improves your skateboarding.
Kingpin Assembly
The kingpin assembly keeps the skateboard trucks together. It secures the hanger and bushings, letting you adjust truck tightness. A well-kept kingpin means smoother rides and sharper turns.
Hanger
The hanger is the T-shaped part that fits the wheels and axles. It’s crucial for turning and grinding. Your hanger width should match your deck for the best ride.
Different brands offer various sizes, for instance, Independent and Thunder have sizes like 129, 139, and 147. For more info, check how skateboard trucks are made.
Bushings and Washers
The bushings and washers help with smooth turns. Bushings are made in soft, medium, and hard types:
- Soft Bushings (below 92a): High turn ability, ideal for cruising and lighter riders.
- Medium Bushings (92a-97a): Good for all types of skating, giving a balance between response and control.
- Hard Bushings (98a+): Perfect for technical tricks or fast skating.
Washers make sure the bushings work right. Choosing the right bushings and washers can make your skateboarding style shine.
| Brand | Axle Width | Recommended Deck Size |
|---|---|---|
| Mini Logo | 7.13 – 8.75 inches | 7.0″ – 8.5″ and over |
| Tensor | 7.625 – 8.625 inches | 7.4″ – 8.5″ and over |
| Independent | 7.4 – 9.75 inches | 7.4″ – 9.75″ |
| Thunder | 7.125 – 8.75 inches | 7.4″ – 8.4″ and over |
Understanding skateboard truck parts lets you improve your ride. This knowledge is priceless, whether you’re putting on new trucks or keeping up with your current ones.
Tools and Materials Needed
Having the right tools and materials is key for a smooth experience when attaching trucks to deck. The right equipment speeds up skateboard care.
Essential Tools
To install skateboard trucks, you’ll need a 3/8 inch wrench and a Phillips screwdriver. These tools help in fastening the skateboard parts firmly. A skate tool is great to have as it combines different wrenches and screwdrivers. It makes attaching trucks to deck easier and faster.
Optional Equipment
Extra tools and materials can aid in skateboard maintenance. Here are some suggestions:
- Riser Pads: Useful for a higher setup or preventing wheel bite.
- Allen Wrenches: Handy for certain fittings with sizes like 7/32” and 1/8”.
- Grip Tape: Provides a secure and comfortable top layer on your skateboard.
These items help in customizing your skateboard, enhancing your ride.
| Tool/Equipment | Primary Use |
|---|---|
| 3/8 inch wrench | Tightening nuts on skateboard hardware |
| Phillips screwdriver | Screwing bolts into deck |
| Skate tool | Multi-purpose tool for comprehensive skateboard maintenance |
| Riser pads | Increasing height setup and preventing wheel bite |
How to Install Trucks on a Skateboard
Starting off, make sure your workspace is clean and organized. Have your skateboard parts like the deck, grip tape, trucks, wheels, and bearings ready. We’ll help you prepare the deck, align and attach the trucks correctly.
Preparing Your Skateboard Deck
First, lay the grip tape on the deck carefully. You should place it in a U shape to avoid bubbles. Then, smooth it out to remove any air trapped underneath.
Next, trim the excess grip tape with a razor blade. This makes for a tidy look and ready for truck attachment. With an awl or screwdriver, make holes through the grip tape to match the deck holes. This is for mounting the trucks.
Placing and Aligning the Trucks
It’s important to place the trucks correctly on the deck. Make sure the kingpins face inward towards each other for better control. After aligning, insert the bolts through the holes over the trucks from the top.
Each skateboard needs 8 bolts for the trucks, divided between the front and back. Ensure the deck balances well over the trucks for a good ride surface.
Securing the Trucks with Hardware
After placing the trucks, tighten the nuts on each bolt with a skate tool or wrench and screwdriver. Make sure they’re tight, but don’t overdo it to avoid damaging the board. A solid setup helps your skateboard perform better and last longer.
If you’re a visual learner and need more help, check out this detailed guide on skateboard setup assembly. It’s very useful.
Properly installing trucks on your skateboard is key. It helps with the board’s stability and your ride’s smoothness. The way trucks are attached can really affect how well your skateboard works.
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Truck Components
Now you have your skateboard deck and tools ready. It’s time to put your skateboard hardware together. Putting the truck parts together is very important for your DIY skateboard project. It makes sure your skateboard will be stable and responsive when you use it.
Attaching the Hanger to the Baseplate
First, connect the hanger to the baseplate. The hanger should line up with the bigger holes on the truck baseplate. Push the hanger into these holes tightly. The hanger is a key part for keeping balance and doing tricks right.
Threading the Kingpin Through the Hanger
Next, put the kingpin through the hanger. The kingpin is a main bolt that keeps the truck parts together. Make sure it goes from one side of the hanger to the other. This step is vital in building your skateboard because the kingpin connects the major truck parts.
Adding Bushings and Washers
After putting the kingpin through, add the bushings and washers. Put a washer on the kingpin, then a bushing. Do this again for the next set of bushings and washers. Bushings affect how your skateboard turns and feels. Use tapered bushings for easier turns or flat bushings for harder turns.
Securing the Kingpin Nut
Now, tighten the kingpin nut. It goes on top of the bushings and washers. Don’t tighten it too much or it will be hard to turn. But don’t leave it too loose or the board will be unstable. You want the kingpin secure but still able to move smoothly. For more help, check this detailed guide on building a skateboard.
Putting your skateboard trucks together carefully ensures good performance and safety. A well-kept skateboard lasts longer and skates better. Knowing how to assemble your skateboard lets you make it just right for you, whether you’re just starting out or you’re already a pro skater.
I’m John Peterson, a passionate skater, blogger, and lifelong enthusiast. I’ve been skating for over 9 years and have gone on to write a blog dedicated to the sport of skating and its culture. Through my blog, I strive to share my knowledge and experience of the sport with all who are interested. From beginner tips, tricks, and equipment reviews to interviews and event coverage, I cover it all. So read my blog as I explore the wonderful world of skating!