Learning how to change the wheels on a skateboard is the fastest way to improve your ride quality and speed. This simple maintenance task transforms a sluggish, rough board into a smooth, responsive machine.
In this complete guide, you will discover the exact tools needed and a step-by-step process for swapping wheels. We also share expert tips for choosing the right bearings and hardware for your setup. Keep reading to master this essential skill.
Best Skateboard Wheels for a Smooth Ride – Detailed Comparison
Bones Wheels STF V3 – Best Overall Choice
The Bones Wheels STF V3 (Street Tech Formula) are the best option for street skaters who want speed and durability. Their unique slim profile reduces friction for slides, while the formula resists flat-spotting. Ideal for technical tricks on rough asphalt.
OJ Wheels Super Juice 60mm – Best for Cruising
For a smooth, fast commute, the OJ Wheels Super Juice 60mm are highly recommended. These soft 78a durometer wheels absorb vibrations from cracks and pebbles. The large diameter maintains momentum, making long pushes effortless on any surface.
Spitfire Formula Four 99a – Best for Park Skating
The Spitfire Formula Four 99a Classics are the proven method for ramp and bowl skating. Their classic shape offers a perfect balance of grip and slide control. The urethane formula provides consistent performance on smooth concrete and wooden ramps.
How to Change Skateboard Wheels: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing your skateboard wheels is a straightforward process that takes under ten minutes. You only need a skate tool or a 1/2-inch socket wrench. Follow these steps to swap your wheels safely and correctly.
Step 1: Remove the Axle Nut and Washer
Place your skateboard on a flat surface with the wheels facing up. Use your skate tool to loosen the axle nut by turning it counter-clockwise. Once loose, remove the nut and the small metal speed washer from the axle.
Step 2: Slide Off the Old Wheel and Bearings
Slide the old wheel off the axle. The bearings will likely stay seated inside the wheel. To remove them, use the axle itself as a lever: insert the axle tip into the bearing and gently rock the wheel to pop it out. Repeat for both bearings.
Key Takeaway: Always remove one wheel at a time. This keeps your spacers and hardware organized, preventing lost parts during reassembly.
Step 3: Install Bearings into New Wheels
Press one bearing into the new wheel by hand, ensuring it sits flush with the wheel’s core. Place the bearing spacer (if using one) inside the wheel, then press the second bearing in from the opposite side. A firm push is usually enough; avoid hammering them.
Step 4: Reassemble and Tighten
Slide the new wheel onto the truck axle. Replace the speed washer and thread the axle nut back on by hand. Tighten it with your tool until there is no side-to-side play, but the wheel still spins freely. A slight wiggle is better than a tight nut.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Skate Tool | Loosens/tightens axle nuts |
| Bearing Press | Seats bearings flush (optional) |
Choosing the Right Skateboard Wheels for Your Style
Selecting the correct wheels is as important as knowing how to change them. Your choice directly impacts your speed, grip, and overall control. Focus on two key factors: durometer (hardness) and diameter (size).
Understanding Durometer: Soft vs. Hard Wheels
Wheel hardness is measured on the ‘A’ scale. Softer wheels (78a-87a) offer superior grip and a smooth ride over rough pavement. They are ideal for cruising and longboards but wear down faster on smooth concrete.
- Medium wheels (88a-95a): A versatile balance for general street skating and park use.
- Hard wheels (96a-101a): Best for technical street tricks and smooth skateparks. They slide easier but feel bumpy on rough roads.
Selecting the Right Diameter for Your Deck
Wheel diameter affects acceleration and top speed. Smaller wheels (50mm-54mm) accelerate quickly, making them perfect for flip tricks and technical street skating. They are lightweight and responsive.
Larger wheels (55mm-60mm) roll faster and maintain momentum better over cracks and debris. They are the recommended choice for cruising, downhill, and transition skating. Ensure your deck has enough clearance to avoid wheel bite.
Key Takeaway: Match your wheel hardness to your terrain. Use soft wheels for rough streets and hard wheels for smooth parks. Always check your truck tightness to prevent wheel bite with larger diameters.
Wheel Shape and Profile Considerations
The shape of the wheel edge also matters. Square-lipped wheels provide more grip for carving and ramps. Rounded-lipped wheels break loose easier for slides and power slides.
Maintaining Your New Skateboard Wheels for Longevity
Once you have changed your wheels, proper maintenance keeps them rolling smooth and fast. Neglecting care leads to premature wear and a rough ride. Follow these expert tips to extend the life of your investment.
Cleaning Your Bearings After a Wheel Swap
Whenever you change wheels, it is the perfect time to clean your bearings. Remove the bearing shields with a seam ripper or a sharp knife. Soak the bearings in acetone or a dedicated bearing cleaner for 15 minutes.
- Dry thoroughly: Let bearings air dry completely before applying lubricant.
- Apply light oil: Use one drop of speed cream or sewing machine oil per bearing.
- Spin to distribute: Rotate the bearing to spread the lubricant evenly inside.
Rotating Wheels for Even Wear
Skateboard wheels wear unevenly due to consistent pushing and turning. Rotate your wheels every 4-6 weeks to balance the wear pattern. Simply swap the front wheels to the back and reverse their positions.
For street skaters, flipping the wheels so the worn edge faces inward can extend their life. This simple trick prevents a conical wear shape that ruins slide performance. Check for flat spots during rotation.
Key Takeaway: Clean bearings during every wheel change. Rotate your wheels monthly to maximize their lifespan and maintain consistent performance across all four corners.
When to Replace Your Skateboard Wheels
Visible flat spots are the clearest sign you need new wheels. If you feel a vibration or “thumping” while riding, your wheels are likely damaged. Also replace them if the diameter has worn down significantly below 48mm.
Troubleshooting Common Wheel and Bearing Problems
Even after a proper wheel change, issues can arise that affect your ride. Knowing how to diagnose these problems saves you time and frustration. Here are the most common issues and their proven solutions.
Wheels Wobble or Feel Loose After Installation
A wobbly wheel usually indicates an overtightened axle nut that has crushed the bearings. Loosen the nut slightly until the wheel spins freely with minimal side-to-side play. If the wobble persists, check for a bent truck axle.
- Check bearing seating: Ensure both bearings are pressed fully flush into the wheel core.
- Inspect speed washers: Missing or bent washers cause lateral movement on the axle.
- Test with a spin: A properly installed wheel should spin silently for several seconds.
Wheels Make Grinding or Clicking Noises
Grinding sounds almost always come from dirty or damaged bearings. Remove the bearings and spin them by hand to feel for roughness. If they feel gritty, clean them with solvent or replace them entirely.
Clicking noises often indicate a loose bearing shield or a small debris particle. Try reseating the shield with gentle pressure. If the clicking continues, the bearing race may be cracked and needs replacement.
Key Takeaway: Silence grinding noises by cleaning bearings. Fix wobbles by adjusting nut tightness. Replace any bearing that feels rough or makes persistent noise after cleaning.
Wheel Bite Causing Sudden Stops
Wheel bite happens when your wheel contacts the deck during a sharp turn. This is common with larger wheels (56mm+) and loose trucks. Fix this by tightening your kingpin nut or adding shock pads for extra clearance.
Essential Tools and Accessories for Changing Skateboard Wheels
Having the right tools makes changing wheels faster and prevents damage to your hardware. While a simple skate tool works, specific accessories improve your efficiency. Here is what you need for a smooth wheel swap.
Must-Have Tools for the Job
A standard skate tool (T-tool) is the most versatile option for any skater. It combines a 1/2-inch socket for axle nuts and a Phillips head driver for hardware. This all-in-one tool fits easily in your backpack or pocket.
- Ratchet wrench: Speeds up the process by allowing continuous rotation without repositioning.
- Bearing press tool: Ensures bearings are seated perfectly flush, preventing misalignment and wobble.
- Bearing remover tool: Safely pries bearings out without damaging the wheel core or bearing shields.
Optional Accessories That Make a Difference
Speed rings (thin metal washers) are often overlooked but crucial for smooth rotation. Place one between the bearing and the axle nut on each side. They reduce friction and prevent the nut from grinding against the bearing shield.
Bearing spacers maintain proper spacing between the two bearings inside the wheel. They prevent the bearings from being crushed when you tighten the axle nut. This simple accessory extends bearing life significantly.
Key Takeaway: Invest in a quality skate tool and bearing press for hassle-free wheel changes. Always use speed rings and spacers to protect your bearings and ensure a smooth, quiet ride.
Lubricants and Cleaners for Bearing Care
Use a dedicated bearing lubricant like Bones Speed Cream for optimal performance. Avoid using WD-40 as a lubricant; it is a solvent that dries out bearings. Acetone or isopropyl alcohol works best for deep cleaning.
Safety Tips for Changing and Testing New Skateboard Wheels
Changing wheels is simple, but safety mistakes can lead to accidents or damaged equipment. Following proper precautions ensures your first ride is smooth and injury-free. Prioritize these safety checks before stepping on your board.
Check Axle Nut Tightness Before Riding
An improperly tightened axle nut is the most common safety hazard. If the nut is too loose, the wheel can slide off mid-ride, causing a sudden fall. If too tight, it crushes bearings and creates friction that slows you down.
- Snug test: Tighten until there is no side-to-side play, then back off slightly.
- Spin test: The wheel should spin freely for at least 5-10 seconds without noise.
- Visual check: Ensure the axle nut is flush with the end of the truck axle.
Inspect Hardware and Trucks for Damage
While changing wheels, take a moment to inspect your truck axles for bends or cracks. A bent axle causes persistent wobbling that cannot be fixed by adjusting the nut. Replace damaged trucks immediately to avoid catastrophic failure.
Also check your baseplate bolts that attach the trucks to the deck. Loose bolts create dangerous instability during turns and landings. Tighten them with a Phillips head screwdriver before your first ride.
Key Takeaway: Always perform a spin test and visual inspection after changing wheels. Check for bent axles and loose baseplate bolts. Never ride a board that feels unstable or makes unusual noises.
Gradual Testing on Safe Terrain
After installing new wheels, start on flat, smooth pavement to test their feel. Gradually increase speed and attempt gentle turns to check for wheel bite. This slow approach helps you adjust to the new durometer and diameter safely.
Upgrading Your Bearings for Maximum Performance
While changing wheels, upgrading your bearings is the smartest performance boost you can make. Better bearings reduce rolling resistance and increase your top speed significantly. This simple upgrade transforms how your board feels on every surface.
Understanding Bearing Ratings and Quality
Bearings are rated using the ABEC scale (1 to 9), with higher numbers indicating tighter manufacturing tolerances. ABEC 5 bearings are the standard for most skateboards, offering a good balance of speed and durability. ABEC 7 and 9 bearings provide superior speed for experienced skaters.
- ABEC 1-3: Entry-level bearings suitable for casual cruising and beginners.
- ABEC 5: The recommended choice for most street and park skaters.
- ABEC 7-9: High-performance bearings for racing and serious speed enthusiasts.
Shielded vs. Unshielded Bearings
Most skateboard bearings come with rubber or metal shields to protect against dirt. Rubber shields (removable) offer better dirt protection and are easier to clean. Metal shields are more durable but harder to remove for maintenance.
Unshielded bearings are faster but require frequent cleaning and lubrication. They are best suited for indoor skateparks with clean, smooth surfaces. For outdoor skating, always choose shielded bearings to prevent grit from ruining your ride.
Key Takeaway: ABEC 5 bearings with removable rubber shields offer the best value for most skaters. Upgrade to ABEC 7 or 9 only if you prioritize maximum speed and perform regular maintenance.
Top Bearing Brands to Consider
Bones Reds are the industry standard for reliable, affordable performance. Bronson Speed Co. G3 bearings offer superior durability with their built-in lubrication system. Zealous bearings come pre-lubricated with built-in spacers for easy installation.
Conclusion: Master How to Change the Wheels on a Skateboard
Learning how to change the wheels on a skateboard is a fundamental skill that saves money and improves your ride. With the right tools and steps, you can swap wheels in under ten minutes. This knowledge lets you customize your board for any terrain.
Always prioritize bearing maintenance and proper nut tightness for safety and performance. Clean your bearings during every wheel change and rotate your wheels monthly. These simple habits extend the life of your gear significantly.
Now grab your skate tool and upgrade your setup today. Your board will feel faster, smoother, and more responsive than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Change the Wheels on a Skateboard
What tools do I need to change skateboard wheels?
You need a skate tool (T-tool) or a 1/2-inch socket wrench to remove the axle nuts. A bearing press tool helps seat new bearings flush, but is optional. Most skaters can complete the job with just a basic skate tool.
For bearing removal, you can use the truck axle itself as a lever. A bearing remover tool is helpful for stubborn bearings that are stuck. These tools are inexpensive and available at any skate shop.
How often should I change my skateboard wheels?
Replace your wheels when you notice visible flat spots or significant wear on the riding surface. Most skaters change wheels every 3-6 months with regular use. Street skaters who slide frequently may need replacements sooner.
If your wheels have worn down below 48mm in diameter, it is time for a new set. Smaller wheels affect acceleration and clearance for tricks. Also replace wheels that feel bumpy or vibrate during rides.
Can I put longboard wheels on a skateboard?
Yes, you can install longboard wheels on a standard skateboard, but you need riser pads to prevent wheel bite. Longboard wheels are typically larger (60mm-70mm) and softer, offering a smoother ride. However, they are heavier and slower for technical tricks.
Ensure your trucks are not too loose to accommodate the larger diameter. Use 1/4-inch riser pads to provide adequate clearance. This setup is ideal for cruising but not for street or park skating.
How do I know if my skateboard bearings are bad?
Bad bearings make grinding, clicking, or rattling noises when you spin the wheel. They also feel rough or gritty when you spin them by hand. If the wheel does not spin freely for at least 5 seconds, the bearings likely need cleaning or replacement.
Visual signs include rust, cracked shields, or visible debris inside the bearing. If cleaning does not restore smooth rotation, replace the bearings entirely. Riding on bad bearings damages your wheels and trucks over time.
What is the correct tightness for skateboard axle nuts?
The axle nut should be snug enough to eliminate side-to-side play but loose enough for the wheel to spin freely. Tighten until you feel slight resistance, then back off a quarter turn. The wheel should spin for 5-10 seconds without slowing abruptly.
An overtightened nut crushes bearings and creates friction. An undertightened nut allows the wheel to wobble and can fall off. Check tightness after your first ride, as new bearings may settle slightly.
Can I change wheels without removing bearings?
No, you must remove the bearings from your old wheels and install them into your new wheels. Bearings are pressed into the wheel core and do not stay on the truck axle. The only exception is if you are buying complete wheels with pre-installed bearings.
To remove bearings, use the truck axle to pry them out gently. Alternatively, use a bearing remover tool for a cleaner process. Always handle bearings carefully to avoid damaging the shields or races.
Why do my new wheels feel slower than my old ones?
New wheels often feel slower because they have fresh urethane that needs breaking in. The surface is slightly sticky until you ride for a few sessions. Additionally, new bearings may have thick factory grease that creates initial resistance.
Check that your axle nuts are not overtightened, as this causes friction. Spin each wheel by hand to ensure they rotate freely. After 2-3 hours of riding, the wheels and bearings will break in and feel faster.
What is the best way to clean skateboard bearings?
The best method is to remove the bearing shields and soak them in acetone or isopropyl alcohol for 15 minutes. Swirl them occasionally to dislodge dirt. Let them air dry completely on a paper towel before lubricating.
Apply one drop of dedicated bearing lubricant like Bones Speed Cream. Spin the bearing to distribute the oil evenly. Reinstall the shields and press the bearings back into your wheels. Clean bearings every 2-3 months for optimal performance.