Imagine transforming your ordinary skateboard into a rugged adventure machine capable of hauling heavy loads. Skateboarding takes on a whole new dimension when you master the art of mounting trucks on your board. Unleash the potential to conquer rough terrain, carry oversized objects, and embark on epic journeys with your trusted skateboard companion.
The process of affixing trucks to a skateboard requires a keen eye, precision, and a touch of engineering savvy. Selecting the appropriate trucks, wheels, and mounting hardware is crucial for creating a stable and functional setup. Whether you’re a seasoned skateboarder or a novice eager to expand your horizons, the following guide will empower you to successfully mount trucks on your skateboard, paving the way for countless adventures.
As we delve into the intricacies of mounting trucks, we’ll explore the critical components involved, namely the baseplate, kingpin, axle, bushings, and nuts. Understanding their functions and proper assembly will enhance your comprehension of the process. Furthermore, we’ll delve into the nuances of tightening the trucks for optimal performance, ensuring a smooth and responsive ride. By the end of this journey, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle the task of mounting trucks on your skateboard, unlocking a world of possibilities for your skateboarding expeditions.
Prepping the Vehicle
Before you begin, it’s crucial to thoroughly prepare your vehicle to ensure the process goes smoothly and the truck is securely mounted on the skateboard. This preparatory phase involves several key steps to ensure a successful and stable installation.
1. Gathering Necessary Materials:
To embark on this project, you will require a few essential items. These include the following:
- Skateboard deck: Choose a deck that is compatible with the size and weight of the truck you intend to mount.
- Trucks: Select trucks that are specifically designed for skateboarding. Consider the width of the deck, the desired ride height, and the intended use of the board.
- Hardware: Ensure you have the necessary bolts, nuts, and washers to securely fasten the trucks to the deck.
- Tools: A socket wrench or allen key will be required for tightening the hardware.
- Sandpaper: Fine-grit sandpaper is recommended for smoothing any rough edges or clearing away any old adhesive residue from the bottom of the deck.
2. Cleaning the Surfaces:
To ensure a strong and secure bond, it’s essential to clean both the bottom of the deck and the top surface of the trucks. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. If necessary, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently abrade the surfaces and create a better adhesive surface.
3. Positioning the Trucks:
Once the surfaces are clean, place the trucks in the desired position on the deck. Align the holes in the baseplates of the trucks with the corresponding holes in the deck. Mark the positions of the holes with a pencil or a small dot of paint.
Building the Skateboard
Materials:
- Wooden deck
- 4 skate trucks
- 8 skate bearings
- 8 washers
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Skateboard wheels
Instructions:
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Assemble the trucks: Take two trucks and attach a bearing and a washer to each axle. Slide a wheel onto each axle and secure it with another washer and nut. Repeat for the other two trucks.
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Mount the trucks to the deck: Position the trucks at the desired width and angle on the bottom of the deck. Use the screwdriver to drive the mounting bolts through the holes in the deck and into the trucks. Tighten the bolts securely, but do not overtighten.
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Tighten the kingpin: The kingpin is the central bolt that connects the hanger to the baseplate of the truck. Use the screwdriver to tighten the kingpin until the truck is stable and does not wobble excessively. However, do not overtighten the kingpin, as this can restrict the truck’s movement.
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Adjust the trucks: The tightness of the trucks will affect the skateboard’s handling. Tighter trucks provide more stability and control, while looser trucks allow for smoother turning and carving. Use the screwdriver to adjust the kingpin to the desired tightness.
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Finishing touches: Once the trucks are securely mounted and adjusted, you can add grip tape to the deck for traction and attach any desired accessories, such as risers or a tail guard.
Attaching the Trucks to the Skateboard
Now that you have all your materials gathered, it’s time to start attaching the trucks to the skateboard. This is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure that everything is done correctly.
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Place the trucks on the board
The first step is to place the trucks on the skateboard. The trucks should be positioned evenly on either side of the board, with the bolts centered on the holes in the deck.
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Secure the trucks with bolts
Once the trucks are in place, you can start securing them with the bolts. The bolts should be tightened down snugly, but not so tight that you strip the threads.
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Install the bushings
The final step is to install the bushings. The bushings are what provide the trucks with their flexibility and make them able to turn. To install the bushings, simply slide them over the bolts and into place.
Once the bushings are in place, your trucks are now attached to the skateboard. You can now move on to the next step, which is attaching the wheels.
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Place the trucks on the board | Position the trucks evenly on either side of the board, with the bolts centered on the holes in the deck. |
| Secure the trucks with bolts | Tighten down the bolts snugly, but not so tight that you strip the threads. |
| Install the bushings | Slide the bushings over the bolts and into place. |
Positioning the Vehicle on the Skateboard
Once you have chosen the skateboard and truck combination that best suits your needs, it’s time to position the vehicle on the skateboard. This is a critical step, as it will affect the stability and handling of the resulting rig.
Front and Rear Placement
The first step is to determine the front and rear placement of the vehicle. This will depend on the length of the skateboard and the size and weight of the vehicle. Generally, heavier vehicles should be placed further back on the skateboard to maintain balance.
Centering the Vehicle
Once the front and rear placement has been determined, the vehicle should be centered on the skateboard. This can be done by measuring the distance from the front and rear axles to the edges of the skateboard. The vehicle should be positioned so that the weight is evenly distributed.
Securing the Vehicle
Once the vehicle is centered, it should be secured to the skateboard. This can be done using a variety of methods, such as straps, bolts, or clamps. Be sure to use high-quality hardware that will not fail under stress.
| Vehicle Size | Front Placement | Rear Placement |
|—|—|—|
| Small | 1/3 of the skateboard length | 2/3 of the skateboard length |
| Medium | 1/2 of the skateboard length | 1/2 of the skateboard length |
| Large | 2/3 of the skateboard length | 1/3 of the skateboard length |
Securing the Vehicle
Once the skateboard is prepared and the truck is removed from the vehicle, it’s time to secure the vehicle onto the skateboard. This process requires careful attention to ensure the vehicle remains stable and secure during transportation.
The first step is to place the front wheels of the vehicle onto the front deck of the skateboard. Ensure that the wheels are positioned securely and evenly on the deck, avoiding any overhang or gaps. Use straps or ropes to tie down the front wheels, making sure they are tightly secured to the deck and cannot move.
Next, carefully lift the rear of the vehicle and place it onto the rear deck of the skateboard. Again, ensure that the wheels are positioned evenly and securely on the deck, avoiding any gaps or overhangs. Use straps or ropes to tie down the rear wheels in the same manner as the front wheels.
Once both the front and rear wheels are secured, it’s important to cross-brace the vehicle. Use additional straps or ropes to create an X-pattern across the vehicle, securing it firmly to the skateboard. This will prevent the vehicle from shifting or moving during transportation.
Finally, thoroughly inspect all straps and ropes to ensure they are tightly secured and will not loosen during the ride. It’s better to err on the side of caution and double-check the stability of the vehicle before moving on.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for securing the vehicle:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Place front wheels on front deck and secure with straps |
| 2 | Lift rear of vehicle and place on rear deck |
| 3 | Secure rear wheels with straps |
| 4 | Cross-brace vehicle with additional straps |
| 5 | Inspect and double-check all straps |
Lifting and Loading the Vehicle
6. Careful Loading onto the Skateboard
Once the vehicle is elevated, the next crucial step is loading it onto the skateboard. This process requires utmost precision and caution to prevent any damage or injury.
6.1. Position the Skateboard Properly
Align the skateboard directly beneath the elevated vehicle, ensuring that the axles are centered and the wheels are perpendicular to the direction of movement.
6.2. Lower the Vehicle Slowly
Gradually lower the vehicle onto the skateboard using a steady and controlled pace. Avoid sudden drops or excessive force that could cause the vehicle to jolt or swing.
6.3. Secure the Vehicle
Once the vehicle is resting on the skateboard, use straps or chains to secure it firmly in place. This prevents the vehicle from slipping or shifting during transport.
6.4. Check Load Distribution
Ensure that the vehicle’s weight is evenly distributed across the skateboard. This ensures stability and prevents the skateboard from tipping or breaking under the load.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Position the skateboard beneath the vehicle. |
| 2 | Lower the vehicle gradually onto the skateboard. |
| 3 | Secure the vehicle with straps or chains. |
| 4 | Check load distribution for stability. |
Transporting the Vehicle
The best way to transport a vehicle on a skateboard is to use a trailer. This will allow you to easily move the vehicle around without having to worry about it tipping over. If you do not have a trailer, you can also use a dolly. However, this will be more difficult to maneuver and may not be as stable.
When transporting a vehicle on a skateboard, it is important to make sure that the vehicle is properly secured. This will help to prevent the vehicle from moving around and causing damage. You can use straps or bungee cords to secure the vehicle to the skateboard.
It is also important to make sure that the skateboard is large enough to accommodate the vehicle. The skateboard should be at least as wide as the vehicle and long enough to accommodate the length of the vehicle. If the skateboard is too small, the vehicle may not be able to fit on it or it may not be stable.
Steps for Transporting the Vehicle
- Gather your materials. You will need a skateboard, a trailer or dolly, and straps or bungee cords.
- Secure the vehicle to the skateboard using straps or bungee cords.
- Lift the skateboard onto the trailer or dolly.
- Secure the skateboard to the trailer or dolly using straps or bungee cords.
- Transport the vehicle to your desired location.
- Unload the vehicle from the skateboard.
- Remove the straps or bungee cords from the vehicle and the skateboard.
Unloading the Vehicle
Carefully guide the truck onto the ramps, ensuring that the front wheels are securely placed.
Position the ramps close to the truck’s rear wheels, with a distance of about 10-12 inches between the ramps.
Locate the truck’s parking brake and engage it to prevent the vehicle from rolling while it’s on the ramps.
Slowly drive the truck onto the ramps until the rear wheels are resting on or slightly above the skateboard platform.
Once the rear wheels are secure, apply light pressure on the gas pedal to lift the front wheels off the ground.
Use a heavy-duty strap or chain to secure the truck to the skateboard platform, ensuring a firm and stable connection.
Slowly lower the truck onto the skateboard by carefully releasing the gas pedal and allowing the front wheels to gently touch the platform.
Additional Tips for Safe Unloading:
| Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Ensure Proper Loading: | Make sure the ramps are securely fastened to the ground and can withstand the weight of the truck. |
| Use Caution: | Avoid sudden movements or excessive force when driving the truck onto the ramps. |
| Check Stability: | Before securing the truck to the skateboard, ensure it is balanced and stable on the platform. |
| Inspect Equipment: | Regularly check the ramps, straps, and skateboard for any signs of damage or wear before each use. |
| Seek Assistance: | For heavier trucks or challenging situations, consider seeking assistance from experienced professionals to ensure safety. |
Removing the Vehicle from the Skateboard
9. Disconnect the Battery Terminals
Once the vehicle is on the ground, disconnect the battery terminals. This will prevent any power from flowing to the vehicle and will help to ensure your safety.
To disconnect the battery terminals, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the terminals in place. Once the nuts are loose, pull the terminals off of the battery posts. Be careful not to touch the positive and negative terminals together, as this could create a short circuit.
Once the battery terminals are disconnected, the vehicle is now safe to move.
10. Inspect the Vehicle and Skateboard
Before you move the vehicle, inspect it and the skateboard for any damage. If you find any damage, do not move the vehicle. Contact a qualified mechanic to have the damage repaired.
11. Move the Vehicle
Once you have inspected the vehicle and the skateboard and you are sure that there is no damage, you can now move the vehicle. To move the vehicle, use a set of ramps to drive the vehicle off of the skateboard.
Once the vehicle is off of the skateboard, you can remove the skateboard from under the vehicle.
Disassembling the Skateboard
1. Remove the Grip Tape
Gently use a flat-head screwdriver or a razor blade to lift the edge of the grip tape and carefully peel it off the deck.
2. Unscrew the Trucks
Flip the deck over and locate the four bolts that secure the trucks to the deck. Use a skate tool or Allen wrench to remove these bolts.
3. Separate the Trucks from the Deck
Once the bolts are removed, carefully lift the trucks away from the deck, being mindful of any wires or other components that may be attached.
4. Remove the Wheels
Flip each truck over and use a skate tool or Allen wrench to unscrew the axle nuts. Slide the wheels off the axles.
5. Disassemble the Trucks
Remove the kingpin nut from the top of each truck. Use a skate tool or Allen wrench to unscrew the pivot cup bolts and separate the baseplate from the hanger.
6. Clean the Truck Components
Use a damp cloth or brush to remove any dirt or grime from the truck components. Allow them to dry completely before reassembling.
7. Lubricate the Truck Components
Apply a small amount of skate wax or lubricant to the pivot cups, kingpin, and any other moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
8. Reassemble the Trucks
Insert the kingpin into the baseplate and hanger and tighten the kingpin nut. Replace the pivot cup bolts and tighten them securely.
9. Reattach the Wheels
Slide the wheels onto the axles and tighten the axle nuts. Ensure that the wheels are properly aligned and spinning smoothly.
10. Reattach the Trucks to the Deck
Position the trucks on the deck, aligning the mounting holes with the bolt holes on the deck. Insert the bolts and tighten them using a skate tool or Allen wrench. Ensure that the trucks are flush with the edge of the deck and securely fastened.
How to Put Trucks on a Skateboard
Putting trucks on a skateboard is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few steps. First, you will need to gather your materials, which include the trucks, the deck, the nuts and bolts, and a skate tool. Once you have your materials, you can follow these steps to put the trucks on your skateboard:
- Place the deck on a flat surface.
- Position the trucks on the deck so that they are evenly spaced and parallel to each other.
- Insert the bolts through the holes in the deck and trucks.
- Place the nuts on the bolts and hand-tighten them.
- Use the skate tool to tighten the nuts until they are snug.
People Also Ask About How To Put Trucks On A Skateboard
How do you put trucks on a skateboard without a skate tool?
If you don’t have a skate tool, you can use a pair of pliers or a wrench to tighten the nuts.
What size bolts do I need for skateboard trucks?
The size of the bolts will depend on the size of the trucks. Most trucks use 5/8-inch bolts.
How do I know if my trucks are too tight or too loose?
Tighten the trucks; you should be able to turn the wheels without them feeling wobbly. If the trucks are too loose, you will have a hard time controlling the skateboard. If they are too tight, it will be difficult to turn the wheels.
