To make your skateboard last longer in excellent condition, it is necessary to take care of each component and make sure that they are dirt-free most of the time. Among the skateboards, trucks, and deck parts is the essential one to be cleaned regularly. In this article, we will tell you how to clean a skateboard truck and deck in a few easy and quick steps.
How To Clean A Skateboard Truck, Bearings & Deck
Cleaning a skateboard doesn’t have to be hard, there are two crucial parts which you need focus on, deck & trucks. So let’s dive in and find out what’s the easiest and quickest way to renew your skateboards.
How To Clean A skateboard Deck
1. Detach The Trucks
First of all, to clean the deck, you will need to detach the trucks from the deck by unscrewing the screws holding them together.
2. Clean The Grip Tape
To clean extra dirt from the grip, take a brush, soak it in warm soapy water and start scrubbing the area with circular motions. Also, keep a soft hand while scrubbing the area around.
3. Rinse Off The Soap
Clean the soap from the deck using a sponge or a piece of nylon cloth gently. Repeat the process 2-3 times if you are not satisfied with the results after cleaning for one time.
4. Clean Underside Too
After cleaning the upper side of the deck now, it is time for the underside to be cleaned. Soak the sponge in warm soapy water and wipe the surface gently with it. Be careful while cleaning the spot where the trucks have been detached from.
5. Let It Dry
After you are done with the cleaning process, leave the deck for a few hours to dry completely.
6. Reattach The Trucks
The final step of cleaning a skateboard deck is to reattach the removed trucks using the screws. Note that attach the trucks after the deck gets dry completely first.
How To Clean Skateboard Trucks
Cleaning the skateboard trucks is also mandatory, as cleaning the trucks will make your skateboard ride smooth and safe. Below we have mentioned some steps on how to clean skateboard trucks.
1. Remove The Attached Parts
First of all, remove all the parts attached to the trucks, such as the kingpin nut, bushings, and the base plate’s hanger. Make sure that you have left only the base plate attached to the deck.
2. Wash Off Extra Dirt
Next, look if the bushings are cracked or broken. Just replace them. If not, then apply water displacement (WD-40) to a small piece of nylon cloth or a towel to wipe off any extra dirt.
3. Apply Wax
If the skateboard trucks make sounds while riding it, then apply some wax to stop the screeching noises permanently.
4. Clean The Axel
Apply some more WD-40 to the paper towel and rinse off the dirt from the axle. Also, rinse off the grease from the bearing. Cleaning the axle and bearings will make your skateboard skate faster.
5. Rearrange And Reattach The Parts
The final step is to rearrange all the parts and attach them back to the base plate. Also, be careful while skating the skateboard back after cleaning the trucks. After the whole process, the skateboard will be faster than usual, and it might result in the wheels being a bit dangerous for you after lubricating them.
Relate Guides: Best Skateboards Under 500 | Top Skateboards Under $1000
Lastly, you can also clean the skateboard bearings easily and here’s a quick video for that.
FAQs
Do you need washers on skateboard trucks?
Yes, you will need washers on the skateboard trucks, as without them, the bearing will cause the shields to rub as the skates roll on the road.
Can I wash my skateboard?
Use an old toothbrush, soak it in soapy water and rub the whole surface with it. After that, use a dry cloth to rinse off the soap.
What household items can you use to clean grip tape?
The following items are required to clean grip tape:
1. Toothbrush
2. Soap
3. A bowl of warm water
4. Paper towel
What household items can I use to clean skateboard bearings?
Isopropyl alcohol and acetone can be used to clean skateboard bearings.
Can skateboard trucks rust?
If skateboard trucks get wet frequently, then there is a probability of skateboard trucks getting rusty easily.
What is the best grip tape cleaner?
Belt sander cleaner is the best grip tape cleaner.
How long does a skateboard last?
A skateboard can last for 6 months and 2 weeks.
Wrapping Up
Above are the simple and a few easiest ways to ensure that your skateboard is dirt-free. Do not skate your skateboard in any sand and wet weather conditions. Also, follow the above-mentioned process step by step. Please share your feedback with us and keep visiting us for more content.
