Setting Up Skateboards

I have just done setting up my Darkstar skateboard. I've changed the wheels. My old wheels on that skateboard are getting dirty and old. So i have to change it before it's getting more dirty. Now i want to show you how to change your wheels on your skateboard.

Tools you will need: 

Skateboard Tool, 4 sets of wheels & 8 bearings.

1.  So now, just

place the new or cleaned bearing into the wheel . Most skateboard bearings have one side with a colored shield. I recommend placing this side facing out. However, you don't need to do it this way.

Either way, the bearing won't fit all the way into the wheel - the fit will be too tight. So first, simply set the bearing into the wheel. 

Next, press the bearing down into the hole, applying pressure on the outside metal rim of the bearing. DO NOT press on the shield, or the center of the bearing. You should be able to press the bearing down to where it is flat with the edge of the wheel. 

Repeat this process with all 8 bearings, putting one on each side of each wheel. I recommend having the shielded side of the bearing facing out on each. If you are using Spacers, make sure to put one in each wheel, between the bearings.

2. Just like the optional spacers, some skateboarders like to use bearing washers to help reduce friction and let your wheels spin faster. If you don't use washers, then skip ahead to step 3.

The washers are very small metal rings that fit on either side of your bearings. Put one on your axle trucks before you put the wheel on, and then one on after the wheel has been slid into place.

3. With all the bearings set into the wheels, put your wheels on your trucks. It doesn't matter if you have the graphic side of your wheels facing out or not - that's up to you.

Next, fit a nylon inserted ½" lock nut on the end of your trucks. These nuts usually come with your trucks, but if not, head to a hardware store and get a set of 4. Each wheel should be set up as seen in the photo. Don't worry about tightening each nut right yet.

4. Using your skate tool or a socket wrench, tighten each nut down

slowly . This will push the bearings down into the wheels. Make sure you take your time and don't crank too hard or fast on the nuts, or you can damage your bearings. Tighten each nut down until it feels snug, and then STOP. Don't crank on the nuts too hard - you want the nuts to fit on snuggly, and to be done turning. That's it.

5. Now here's the secret. Once the nut has been tightened up, and the bearings are all sunk into place, you want to loosen the nut a little. Loosen it, and then jiggle the wheel a little, back and forth on the trucks. You want a small amount of play, just enough so you can feel it. When you pull the wheel from side to side, you want it to make a little

clack sound, just a little. This will help your wheels to spin faster and more freely.

And with that, you are done! You have successfully replaced and installed new skateboard bearings! Now go skate!

                                          (Sorry, no pic)