Skateboard Bushings
Change Them Regularly
 Skateboard bushings are easy to change and to
maintain a good ride you should do it regularly. They are
the little rubber doughnut type things in your tucks.
Being subjected to a lot of stress while you're riding,
bushings can soon lose their spring.
Worn skateboard bushings can make your board less responsive
and can even make it want to turn in one direction all the
time. So, if you don't want to end up riding in circles (it's
not that bad really), follow these simple instructions to check
and change them from time to time.
You will need a tool to remove the kingpin nut. Check yours
to see what tool you'll need. A good skate key should fit most
types. An important thing to remember is that you're going to
have to put your trucks back together so don't lose any of the
bits and, if you think you'll forget, keep them in order so
you'll know which way they go back together.
It's a good idea to do one truck at once. If you do forget
how to put it together you can use the other one as a
reference. Also, it will stop you from getting the parts mixed
up.
Ready?  Right, first loosen and remove the kingpin
nut. Underneath that you'll find a washer and then the
first skateboard bushing. The hanger, the bit that holds
the axle, might need at bit of tugging to get it off so
be careful not to damage anything.
Once you've got it all apart have a good look at the
bushings. If they're still in good condition just give them a
clean and use them again. If not, throw them away and use new
ones.
Now, give all your parts a good wipe down with a soft cloth
to clean them up a bit and then you can reassemble the truck.
Once you have everything back in place you'll need to adjust
your kingpin nut.
First put it on hand tight and then use your tool to tighten
it up some more. How much you tighten it will depend on how
tight you like your trucks. Some skaters like them quite tight
which makes it easier to do tricks but harder to turn.
Others like them looser so it's easier to carve. Take your
skate key with you when you skate so you can adjust them if you
find you didn't set them quite right.
More
Skateboard Maintenance
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Bushings
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