Whether you skate on inlines or quads, well-maintained bearings that keep your wheels spinning freely are an important component of your skating speed, maneuverability and safety. Over time, dirt and debris can collect in bearings, or bearings can rust from skating in wet conditions. Rather than constantly purchasing new bearings--an option that can quickly get expensive--try cleaning and oiling them yourself.
Step 1
Spread newspaper on a table or the floor for a work surface. World Inline Speed Skating medalist Michael Byrne recommends using newspaper rather than towels or cloths so your bearings don't pick up new contaminants during cleaning.
Step 2
Remove the bearings from your wheels: Insert a screwdriver into the center hole of each bearing and gently pry them loose from the wheels, being careful not to scratch or bend them. Wipe each bearing clean with paper towels to remove surface grime.
Step 3
Straighten the end of a small paper clip and use it to remove the bearing's flat rubber shield. You can either pry the shield off from the top, or carefully insert the paper clip into the other side of the bearing, between two balls, and pop the shield off from underneath.
Step 4
Rinse the bearings and shields in an appropriate cleaning solution, such as a citrus-based bearing cleaner or a solvent such as acetone or pure alcohol. A bearing cleaning unit can be useful for keeping bearings separated and secure during cleaning. Alternatively, place the bearings in a jar, cover them with cleaning solution and swirl the jar gently--be careful not to break a glass jar. Replace dirty cleaning solution with fresh solution until it remains clear after rinsing the bearings. Dispose of your cleaning solution safely.
Step 5
Remove the bearings from the cleaning unit or jar and begin to dry them by tapping them on the newspapers. This also will help dislodge any remaining debris. Use a can of compressed air to blow any remaining cleaning solution out of the bearings.
Step 6
Lubricate the bearings by adding two to three drops of your chosen lubricant to the balls. Hold each bearing at the center between your thumb and forefinger so it can spin freely, and give each one several spins in both directions after adding the lubricant. If a bearing doesn't spin smoothly or still makes crunching noises, it may need to be cleaned again.
Step 7
Replace the rubber shield on each bearing, gently pressing it into place from the outside with your fingers. Check the spin on each bearing again to make sure the shield is placed properly. Reinsert the bearings into your skate wheels.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose your bearing lubricant wisely. Consult the manufacturer of your bearings for suggestions on an appropriate lubricant; WD40 and similar products are not suitable for bearings and may cause damage.
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gloves and eyewear if you choose a solvent as your cleaning solution.
Things You'll Need
- Newspaper
- Screwdriver
- Paper towels
- Small paper clip
- Bearing cleaning solution
- Bearing cleaning unit (optional)
- Small glass or metal jar with lid
- Can of compressed air
- Bearing lubricant
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