The truck on a skateboard is the apparatus that attaches the wheels to the main board. This complex mechanism consists of many moving parts that together create a smooth riding experience while offering various types of control over the board. You probably will have to replace your trucks at some point due to normal wear. There are many considerations when choosing the trucks for your skateboard. They can make all the difference in how you ride.
Step 1
Measure the width of your skateboard in the area where you usually place your front foot. You want a truck that has a "hanger" or axle length approximately this wide, or even a little bit wider. The hanger is the main metal joint that leads up to the axle. Most wheels are located just under the outer edges of the board. If the hanger is too much thinner than the board's width, the wheels might not all stay on the ground during turns.
Step 2
Select a high hanger pivot angle if you want a tighter turn radius. A skateboard can turn sharply or turn widely. The pivot angle of the trucks' hangers determine how high the board is off the ground, away from its wheels. Shifting your weight on the board offers greater leverage if the board is higher off the ground, and you will turn more sharply.
Step 3
Select a low hanger pivot angle for greater board stability. If you plan to ride long distances on your board, race or otherwise skate at high speeds, you might prefer trucks that bring the board closer to the ground. This also makes the board easier to ride, which can streamline the learning curve for new riders.
Step 4
Use trucks with softer bushings if you want greater leverage over the wheel axle when you lean. The bushings are a component between the hanger and the wheels. They help keep the truck stable. A loose or "soft" bushing contrasts with a tight or "hard" bushing. Soft bushings make it easier to turn. Some riders prefer the bushings of the front and rear wheels to have different hardness.
Step 5
Avoid trucks made with petroleum-based materials. These materials wear out faster and can cause other parts of the truck to wear out more quickly too. This increases your costs over time as you replace parts. Additionally, such materials can make the board squeak when you turn.
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