Trucks are the unsung heroes of a skateboard. They are the backbone of your ride, but they are also the part that gets the dirtiest. Dirty trucks can cause your skateboard to ride poorly and can even lead to safety hazards. From rusty bolts to greasy pivot cups, it can be quite a hassle to keep your trucks clean and in tip-top shape.
But don’t worry, with a little bit of know-how and elbow grease, you can easily restore your skateboard trucks to their former glory. In this article, I will share some valuable tips and tricks on how to clean your skateboard trucks like a pro to ensure smooth riding and turning.
So, grab your cleaning supplies (which I’ll mention further in the article), and let’s get those trucks looking brand new again! You can follow the same method for periodic maintenance to keep them shining neat.
Note: You should avoid harsh chemicals as much as possible, they are not good for the metal and the environment also. Try using mild soap which is great at removing rust and restoring the trucks back to their original condition.
How to Clean Skateboard Trucks? Step by Step Guide
If you are new to skateboarding, you might be wondering how often you should clean your skateboard trucks. Well, it really depends on how often you ride and in what conditions.
If you live in a dusty area or ride regularly in the rain, then you might need to clean them more often. But as a general rule of thumb, you should try to clean your trucks at least once a month.
The first step is to remove the trucks from the deck. You will need a skate tool or socket wrench to loosen the bolts. Once you have removed the bolts, carefully pull the trucks away from the deck. There is no need to remove the baseplate from the deck – leave it on.
Now that the trucks are removed from the deck, you can start disassembling them. Use a slip-joint plier or any other tool to remove the axle nuts, washers, bolts, kingpin, kingpin nut, pivot cup, bushings and hanger.
Step 3: Clean the Parts
After removing all the parts of the trucks, now it’s time to give them an in-depth cleaning. You can do this by using a bowl and some non-alcoholic cleaner. We highly recommend WD-40, it is a great option as it will help to remove rust that has built up on the bearings and lubricate them.
Start by soaking the parts in the bowl for a few minutes. Then use a soft cloth or paper towel to wipe them down. Be sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If there is any stubborn dirt or grime, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub it away.
In case you fail to remove the rust completely from some parts, repeat the process until every part of the truck is rust-free.
We advise putting some extra effort to clean the axle, kingpin and bushings as it will ensure effortless turning. Once you have cleaned all the parts, allow them to air dry at normal temperature, away from the sun.
Step 4: Lubricate the Parts
Once the parts are dry, it’s time to lubricate them. This will ensure the smooth turning of the trucks. You can use any lubricant but we recommend Gulf Wax as it is specifically designed for skateboard trucks.
Apply a small amount of lubricant to all the moving parts – especially on the axle, kingpin and bushings. Also, do not forget to apply it to the inside of the hanger.
Step 5: Reassemble the Trucks
Now it’s time to reassemble the trucks. Start by putting the bushings and washers back on the axle. Then slide on the hanger and insert the axle through it. Add the pivot cups and tighten everything down with the bolts. Be sure not to over-tighten the bolts, just make them snug.
Reattach the trucks to the deck and you are good to ride again!
Video Guide on Cleaning Skateboard Trucks
Final Words:
Now you know how to clean skateboard trucks and perhaps you’ve cleaned them by following this method. Cleaning your skateboard trucks is important to keeping them in good condition and helping them last longer. Regular cleaning will not only help them last longer but also perform better.
So, don’t wait for months to pass by – give them a clean at least once a month for proper maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to clean the trucks on a skateboard?
Yes, you should clean your trucks at least once a month. Skateboard trucks are made of metal and they can get rust over time. Cleaning them regularly will help to remove any dirt, grime or rust that can build up on them.
Does water ruin skateboard trucks?
Yes, water can ruin skateboard trucks. If the trucks get wet, be sure to dry them off as soon as possible. Rust can build up on the trucks if they are left wet, which can cause them to become stiff and difficult to turn.
Can you put WD40 on skateboard trucks?
Yes, you can use WD40 to clean skateboard trucks. It is an effective solvent to remove rust and stubborn debris. Just be sure to wipe it off completely afterward so that it doesn’t attract more dirt.
I got inspired by my father after watching him performing heroic tricks on a skateboard. Started at the age of 8 and performed in multiple competitions, now I coach professionals for tournaments. It's not just a sport for me - more like a passion and meditation! After years of experience with different skateboarding products, here are my reviews about Best Skateboard Brands and Best Skateboard for Beginners. It's an era of technology, you can also check unbiased reviews of Best Electric Skateboards. You can also read Benefits of Skateboarding.
