How to Replace Skateboard Bearings

Co-authored by Jon Depoian

Last Updated: July 18, 2023

Sometimes, skateboard bearings need more than cleaning. Bearings can get rusted or pitted beyond repair, and when that happens there’s no real solution beyond replacing them. Luckily, replacing your bearings is one of the easier (and more satisfying) skateboard projects. In this article, we’ll break down everything you’ll need to do in order to install some fresh bearings so you can get back on the board.

1

Purchase replacement bearings.

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Your local skateboard shop should be able to help if you don’t know what kind of bearings you’d need.

2

Take the wheels off.

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Put the two washers and nut from the wheel in a bag or other small container so you do not lose them.^{[1]
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3

Put the first bearing on the axle.

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4

Pry the bearing off.

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If you're going to throw the bearings away anyway, you don't need to be too delicate with them, but try not to damage the wheel in the process.^{[3]
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5

Repeat this process on the other wheels.

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6

Slide the bearings into place.

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Go for whatever makes this easier for you when it comes to attaching the bearings.^{[4]
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7

Put the wheel on the truck.

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Put the wheel onto the truck of the skateboard and press down on the wheel to press the bearing into place.

8

Install the spacer.

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9

Slide the bearing on.

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10

Repeat this process for the other wheels.

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11

Swap out the washers and nuts.

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The wheels should rotate without the bearing jiggling or providing friction.

12

Go skateboarding.

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With your bearings replaced, your wheels should feel brand new now.

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Question

What tool do I use to pry the bearings out?

Community Answer

Put the wheel on the truck axle, and pull the wheel at an angle until the bearing comes out.

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Question

Do I need to have a spacer in-between the bearings?

Community Answer

Some wheels have a molded integrated spacer, some require a separate piece.

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Tips

Work slowly to avoid damaging the parts of your skateboard that you're not replacing.

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Clean your bearing using bones cleaning solution or other solvents (avoid water based) to avoid rusted bearings.

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Lubricate your bearing every so often with bones speed cream or other alternatives to prevent damage from friction.

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