If you’re a skateboarder, then you know that bushings are an important part of your setup. Bushings provide the cushioning and bounce that allow you to perform tricks and maneuvers. However, it’s important to replace them when they wear out as soon as possible. This blog post will show you how to replace bushings skateboard. Keep reading for tips and instructions!
Bushings skateboards are small, round pieces of rubber that sit between your truck’s baseplates and kingpins. They act as cushions, absorbing shock to help keep your ride smooth. But, over time, they can wear down and need to be replaced.
Replacing your bushings is a relatively easy process, but it’s important to choose the right bushings for your skating style. Softer bushings are better for beginners or those who want a smoother ride, while harder bushings are better for experienced skaters who need more control.
Are Skateboard Bushings Necessary?
Skateboard bushings are one of those skate parts that you don’t really think about until they need to be replaced. And then, all of a sudden, you can’t go anywhere without replacing them. So, do you need skateboard bushings?
The simple answer is yes. You do need skateboard bushings. Without them, your skateboard would be incredibly difficult to control. In addition, bushings help your trucks turn smoothly and provide cushioning when you land tricks.
When Should I Replace My Skateboard Bushings?
There is no set timeframe for when you should replace your skateboard bushings, as it will depend on how often you use your skateboard and the conditions that you ride in. However, generally speaking, you can expect to need to replace your bushings every few months to a year.
If you notice that your skateboard is not performing as well as it used to, or if the bushings are starting to show signs of wear and tear, then it is probably time to replace them.
Replacing your skateboard bushings is a relatively simple and straightforward process, and it is something that you can do at home with just a few tools. This article will show you how to replace bushings on a skateboard.
Things You Will Need
- Skateboard
- New Bushings (choose the right hardness for your skating style)
- Screwdriver
- T-Tool or Allen Wrench
7 Ways on How to Replace Bushings Skateboard:
1. Remove Your Old Bushings.
First, you will need to remove your old bushings. To do this, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold your trucks in place. Once the screws are loose, you can remove the trucks entirely.
2. Take Out the Pivot Cups.
After removing your trucks, you will need to take out the pivot cups. To do this, use a screwdriver or a pry bar to remove the cups from the bottom of your trucks. Pivot cups are usually made of metal or plastic and can be found in a variety of colors.
3. Remove the Old Bushings.
Once you have removed the pivot cups, you can remove the old bushings. To do this, pull the bushings out of the bottom of your trucks. Use your fingers or a pry bar to help remove the old bushings if they are stuck.
4. Prepare Tools for Kingpin.
The next step is to prepare your tools for the kingpin. To do this, you will need a T-tool or an Allen wrench. Insert it into the kingpin once you have your tool and unscrew it. Be sure to hold onto the kingpin so that it doesn’t fall out when you remove it.
5. Choose Your New Bushings.
When choosing new bushings for your skateboard, you will need to consider a few things. First, you will need to decide on the durometer, or hardness, of the bushings. You can choose from a variety of hardness levels, each of which will impact your riding experience in different ways. Softer bushings are more forgiving and offer more control, while harder bushings are more responsive and offer more stability. You will also need to decide on the shape of the bushings. Conical bushings are the most popular street skating choices, while barrel bushings are more common for bowl and ramp skating.
6. Install the New Bushings.
Installing your new bushings is just as easy as removing the old ones. First, insert the kingpin into the new bushing and hand-tighten the nut until it is finger-tight. Next, insert the axle into the other side of the bushing and hand-tighten the nut. Once both bushings are in place, use a skate tool to tighten the nuts until they are snug. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the bushings. And that’s it! You’re now ready to ride with your new bushings.
7. Reassemble Your Skateboard.
Once you have installed your new bushings, you will need to reassemble your skateboard. First, insert the kingpin into the hanger. Next, add the washers and nuts. Finally, tighten everything down. Now, you are ready to ride! Enjoy your new bushings.
Tips and Warnings on How to Replace Bushings Skateboard:
Tips:
- When choosing new bushings, be sure to consider the durometer and shape.
- When installing new bushings, be careful not to overtighten the kingpin nut.
- Be sure to grease the new bushings before installation.
- Once installed, be sure to ride your skateboard and test the new bushings before committing to them.
Warnings:
- Always consult your skateboard’s manual or a professional skate mechanic before making any modifications to your skateboard.
- Be careful when working with tools and always wear protective gear when skating.
- Never ride your skateboard without proper safety gear.
- Don’t over-tighten the axle nuts- this can damage the threads and make it difficult to remove them in the future.
Are Skateboard Bushings Universal?
No, skateboard bushings are not universal. Each truck’s bushing seats are different, so make sure to get the right size when you purchase new bushings. How do I know what size my skateboard bushings are?
The first step is to identify which truck your bushing goes to. Once you know that, you can either measure the bushing seats or consult your truck’s manual to find out what size you need.
How Much Do Skateboard Bushings Cost?
Skateboard bushings come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all serve the same purpose – to allow your skateboard trucks to rotate smoothly. Because of this, they are subject to a lot of wear and tear and will eventually need to be replaced. Depending on the brand and quality of the bushings, they can range in price from $10-$30.
How Do I Know if My Skateboard Bearings Are Bad?
The first thing you’ll notice is that your skateboard starts to make a lot of noise. This can be a grinding or creaking sound, and it’s a sure sign that your bearings need to be replaced. You might also notice that your skateboard feels slower than usual or that it’s harder to push. These are both signs that the bearings are starting to wear down and need to be replaced. If you take a close look at your bearings, you might notice that they’re starting to look rusty or dirty. This is another sign that it’s time for new bearings.
If you’re still unsure whether your bearings need to be replaced, take them out of your skateboard and spin them on a flat surface. If they don’t spin smoothly or make a lot of noise, then it’s time for new bearings. New bearings will spin smoothly and quietly.
How Long Should Bushings Last Skateboard?
The average lifespan of a bushing is about three to six months. However, this will depend on how often you skate and the conditions of your skating surface. For example, if you frequently skate on rough surfaces, your bushings will wear down faster. Conversely, if you only skate occasionally on smooth surfaces, your bushings will last longer.
Conclusion
Bushings are small, cylindrical pieces of rubber or plastic that sit between the truck and the deck on a skateboard. They provide cushioning and stability for turns and tricks. Bushings come in different shapes and sizes to accommodate different types of skating- from cruising around town to doing complex tricks in a park. Over time, bushings wear down and need to be replaced in order to maintain the quality of your skateboarding experience.
We’ll teach you how to replace worn-out bushings on your own skateboard in this post. -Replacing bushings is not difficult, but it does require some basic tools and knowledge. If you can follow these simple instructions, you’ll learn how to replace bushings skateboard. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself, take your skateboard to a local shop, and they can do it for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comments below.
