A skate tool is a small, handheld tool used to tighten or loosen the trucks on a skateboard. It also has other functions, such as removing the wheels and changing the bearings. If you’re a skateboarder, you know the importance of a skate tool. These tools are essential for maintaining your board and making adjustments when necessary. In this article, we’ll teach you how to use a skate tool to keep your board in good condition.
Why Do I Need a Skate Tool?
As mentioned above, a skate tool is necessary to adjust your trucks and wheels. It’s also helpful for changing the bearings, which can wear out over time. Without a skate tool, you would need to take your board to a shop to make these changes. A skate tool is a small investment that can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. If you take good care of your skateboard, it will last longer and ride better.
Types of Skate Tools
There are a few different types of skate tools on the market, including:
All-in-one Skate Tools:
These tools have everything you need to adjust your board, including a screwdriver, Allen wrench, and socket wrench. They’re great for beginners because they’re easy to use, and they have all the tools you need in one place.
Multi-tools:
Multi-tools are similar to all-in-one skate tools but usually don’t have a socket wrench. They’re a bit smaller and more compact, making them easier to carry around.
Skate Tool Kits:
Skate tool kits come with a variety of different tools that you can use to adjust your board. They’re great for people who are serious about skateboarding and want the tools they need to keep their board in top condition.
A Complete Guide on How to Use a Skate Tool
1. Tighten or Loosen Your Trucks
You’ll first need to use the skate tool to tighten or loosen your trucks. If your trucks are too loose, they will make your board unstable and difficult to control. On the other hand, if they’re too tight, your board will be more difficult to turn. You’ll need to experiment to find the perfect balance.
2. Remove Your Wheels
If you need to change your wheels, you’ll first need to remove the old ones. To do this, you’ll use the skate tool to remove the bolts that hold the wheels in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can simply pull the old wheels off and put new ones in their place. If you’re unsure how to put new wheels on, you can consult your skateboard manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Change Your Bearings
Over time, the bearings in your wheels can become worn out and need to be replaced. To do this, you’ll first need to remove the old bearings from your wheels. To do this, you’ll use the skate tool to remove the bearing caps from the wheels. Once the caps are removed, you can simply pull the old bearings out and put new ones in their place.
4. Adjust the Height of Your Trucks
If you want to change the height of your trucks, you’ll need to use the skate tool to adjust the kingpin. The kingpin is the bolt that holds the trucks to the deck. To raise the height of your trucks, you’ll need to loosen the kingpin. To lower the height, you’ll need to tighten the kingpin.
5. Adjust the Angle of Your Baseplates
If you’re looking to make some adjustments to how your skateboard rides, one of the best places to start is by adjusting the angle of your baseplates. This can be done by using a skate tool to loosen the kingpin nut and then rotating the baseplate to the desired angle. Be careful not to over-tighten the kingpin nut, as this can damage your skateboard.
6. Tighten or Loosen the Kingpin Nut
The kingpin is the large nut located in the center of the truck. This nut holds the axle in place. If it is too loose, the truck will wobble. If it is too tight, the truck will be difficult to turn. The ideal tightness for the kingpin nut is when it is snug but can still be turned easily by hand.
7. Remove Your Deck
If you need to remove your deck, you’ll first need to take off the trucks. To do this, you’ll use the skate tool to remove the kingpin. Once the kingpin is removed, you can simply pull the trucks off the deck. If you’re having trouble removing the kingpin, you can use the skate tool to pry it out.
8. Replace Your Grip Tape
If your grip tape is peeling up or wearing out, you’ll need to replace it. You’ll first need to remove the old grip tape to do this. To do this, you’ll use the skate tool to peel up the edges of the grip tape. Once the grip tape is removed, you can simply apply new grip tape to the deck.
9. Cut Your Grip Tape
If you need to cut your grip tape, you can use the skate tool to score the tape. To do this, you’ll simply run the skate tool along the edge of the grip tape. Once you’ve scored the tape, you can easily snap it in half. If you’re not planning on using the grip tape immediately, you can store it in a ziplock bag.
10. File Down Rough Edges
If you’ve just installed new grip tape or wheels, you may notice that the edges are rough. To smooth out these edges, you can use the skate tool to file them down. Simply run the skate tool along the edges of the grip tape or wheels until they’re smooth.
11. Clean Your Wheels
If your wheels start to get dirty, you can use the skate tool to clean them. To do this, simply run the skate tool along the surface of the wheels. This will remove any dirt or debris that may be attached to the wheels.
12. Flip or Rotate Your Wheels
If you want to change the way your skateboard rides, one of the best things you can do is flip or rotate your wheels. To do this, you’ll first need to remove the old wheels. To do this, you’ll use the skate tool to remove the bearing caps from the wheels. Once the caps are removed, you can simply pull the old wheels out and put new ones in their place.
How Much Does a Skate Tool Cost?
A skate tool typically costs between $5 and $10. You can find skate tools at most skate shops and online. However, if you’re looking for a more comprehensive skate tool, you may consider getting a multi-tool. A multi-tool is a tool that includes a skate tool, as well as other tools such as a screwdriver and Allen key. Normally, a multi-tool costs between $15 and $20.
Some Tips and Warnings
Tips:
1. Be extra careful when using a skate tool on your skates. Blades are sharp and can easily cut you.
2. When not in use, store your skate tool in a safe place where it cannot fall and hurt someone.
3. Check your blades often to make sure they are still sharp and in good condition.
4. Get your skate tool from a reputable source to ensure its quality.
5. If you are unsure how to use a skate tool, ask a friend or skating professional for help.
Warnings:
1. Never use a skate tool on someone else’s skates without their permission.
2. Do not use a skate tool to adjust the blades on your skates. This can damage the blades and cause injury.
3. Do not use a skate tool to tighten or loosen screws on your skating equipment. This can strip the screws and cause damage.
4. Do not use a skate tool to pry open or close parts of your skating equipment. This can damage the skates and cause injury.
5. Never leave a skate tool lying around where someone could trip on it and get hurt.
6. Do not use a skate tool as a weapon. This can result in serious injury.
7. Do not use a skate tool to repair anything other than skating equipment. This can damage the skate tool and cause injury.
8. Do not use a skate tool if you are not sure how to use it safely. Seek help from a qualified skating instructor or coach if needed.
Conclusion
A skate tool is an important tool to have in your skateboard arsenal. It lets you make quick adjustments to your trucks and helps keep your board in good condition. Knowing how to use a skate tool correctly can save you time and hassle on the road or at the park. Make sure you have one of these tools handy so you’re always ready to roll.
