There are a number of good reasons to install new skateboard trucks. Perhaps you want to build a new complete skateboard from scratch, or, as you become a more proficient rider, you may decide to upgrade to a different type of skateboard truck. As you use your skateboard, your trucks may also begin to wear and need replacing. Whatever your reason may be, you can put on a new set of skateboard trucks in just a few minutes' time.
Step 1
Clear out any debris and grip tape from the truck bolt holes on the skateboard deck. Push a truck bolt or screwdriver through any new grip tape covering the holes, if necessary.
Step 2
Place the base plate of one of the trucks against the bottom of the deck. Position the kingpin, which is the main bolt that adjusts the pivot tension of the trucks, toward the center of the board.
Step 3
Insert a spacer between the truck and the skateboard deck, if you plan to use a spacer. Align the bolt holes in the truck base plate with the spacer holes and the bolt holes in the deck.
Step 4
Insert a truck bolt through one of the holes in the top of the deck and through the hole in the truck base plate. Attach a nut to the bolt. Tighten the nut finger tight. Repeat this step with the other bolts and nuts, following a diagonal, criss-cross pattern to evenly distribute the hold.
Step 5
Tighten each bolt with the screwdriver and adjustable wrench. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage to the skateboard deck.
Step 6
Repeat steps 2 through 5 with the other truck.
Step 7
Adjust the kingpin on each truck to the desired pivot tension. The kingpin's tightness affects how the board turns.
Things You'll Need
- Skateboard deck
- Skateboard trucks
- Bolts
- Nuts
- Spacers
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
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