Skateboard wheels are made from solid urethane and turn freely on the axle of the truck thanks to the internal bearings. Regular riding, a hard landing or a loose axle nut may result in the wheel of your skateboard breaking or coming off the deck. If the wheel and truck is not severely damaged, you can likely place it back on the deck within a few minutes and keep skating. If it is damaged, you may need to get a new wheel and bearings set to put back on the skateboard.
Step 1
Set the skateboard on a solid surface where you can work on it, preferably a waist-height workbench. Tip the skateboard on its side so the empty truck axle is facing up and closest to you. Place an appropriately sized combination wrench over the axle nut if it is still on the truck. Turn the wrench counterclockwise until the nut is fully removed from the axle.
Step 2
Slide the wheel onto the axle and place the nut onto the end of the bolt. Carefully check the threads of the nut to ensure they are lined up exactly with the threads of the bolt. Tighten the nut by spinning it clockwise with your hand until you can no longer turn it.
Step 3
Place the combination wrench back on the nut and tighten it until the wheel is secured on the skateboard truck. Spin the wheel with your hand to test how tight it is on the truck. If the wheel wobbles from side to side as it spins, it is too loose and you need to continue tightening the nut. If the wheel is difficult to turn, loosen the nut until the wheel spins freely without any wobble.
Tips and Warnings
- Clean your wheel bearings before replacing the wheel if they are open bearings. These are typically found on cheaper or older skateboards.
Things You'll Need
- Combination wrench
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