Proper Skate Tool Selection

Skateboard tools are a specialized set of tools designed specifically for skateboard maintenance and adjustments. In everyday riding, these skateboard tools are frequently used and are crucial for maintaining skateboard performance, ensuring safety, and achieving personalized riding styles. Keeping skateboard components in good condition and adjusting skateboard setups according to personal preferences require the use of appropriate skateboard tools. Therefore, for enthusiasts passionate about skateboarding, owning a complete set of skateboard tools is indispensable.
Skateboarding Tools:
Function: Skateboard tools are one of the most fundamental skateboard tools, typically equipped with different sizes of wrench heads suitable for nuts and bolts on skateboards. With skateboard tools, you can easily disassemble and assemble skateboard wheels, trucks, and other components.
Skateboard Nut Wrench:
Function: The skateboard nut wrench is specifically designed for adjusting nuts on skateboard wheels. It usually features a slender design, making it convenient to operate between the wheels, ensuring you can easily adjust the tightness of the wheels.
Nuts needed:
Installing Trucks to Deck:
Round Head: M5
Washer: M5
Nut: M5
Motor + Gear Cover:
Flat Head: M4
Shell:
Countersunk Hole Head: M5
Nut: M5
Washer: M5
Heat Sink:
Countersunk Head: M4
Nut: M4
Hexagon Head: M3
Installing Motor Bracket to Trucks
Round Head: M5
Nut: M5
Adjusting Deck Angle
Flat Head: M6
Nut: M6
Truck Hardware
Axle: M5/16-24
Kingpin Nut: M3/8-24
Screwdriver:
Function: The screwdriver is used to disassemble and assemble screws on the skateboard. When adjusting the skateboard's steering assembly, replacing the skateboard's deck griptape, or performing other maintenance tasks, the screwdriver is an essential tool.
Screw Gun:
Function: The screw gun is a tool operated electrically or manually, used to quickly tighten or loosen screws on the skateboard. For skateboard enthusiasts who frequently adjust or replace components, it is an important tool.
Skateboard Bearing Tool:
Function: The skateboard bearing tool is used to install and disassemble bearings on the wheels. Keeping bearings clean and regularly lubricated can enhance the skateboard's riding performance.
Skateboard Riser:
Function: The skateboard riser is used to adjust the riser pads on the skateboard, affecting the skateboard's turning performance. By adjusting the skateboard pads, you can change the stability and agility of the skateboard.
Skateboard Hardware Tool:
Function: The skateboard hardware tool is used to disassemble and assemble nuts and bolts on the skateboard. This includes adjusting the tightness of the skateboard trucks to ensure they are both safe and flexible.
How to Use Skateboard Tools:
While each component of skateboard tools has specific uses, they all work together to maintain optimal skateboard performance. Let's delve into how to effectively use these tools.
Adjusting Trucks:
Using the main axle wrench, you can adjust the tightness of the steering assembly to change the skateboard's responsiveness to body movements. A looser setting makes turning easier, while a tighter setting provides higher stability but lower flexibility.
Modifying Wheel Tension:
The axle nut wrench is used to adjust the tension of the skateboard wheels on the axles. Remember, your wheels should not be too tight against the trucks. Instead, they should have a small amount of "play" or movement.
Replacing Skateboard Deck:
Install the hardware with a Phillips or hex screwdriver to replace the skateboard deck. This becomes necessary when the deck grip tape wears out or when you want to upgrade to a different deck type.
Installing and Removing Bearings:
The bearing press/puller is an important tool for handling bearings. This component allows you to safely remove or install wheel bearings, ensuring smooth riding.
Extending Grip Tape Lifespan:
Over time, grip tape may lose its effectiveness due to dirt and dust. To help maintain its grip, you can use grip tape cleaner to remove dirt and restore the grip tape's traction. For stubborn stains...
Keeping Bearings Clean:
Regularly cleaning bearings can significantly extend their lifespan and improve your riding experience.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Tools:
Choosing the appropriate skateboard tools depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do beginners need skateboard tools?
Yes, skateboard tools are essential for beginners. They help adjust skateboard components to fit the beginner's comfort and confidence levels, making learning and mastering skateboarding easier.
Can I use regular tools instead of skateboard tools?
Although regular tools can be used, skateboard tools are specifically designed for skateboard maintenance. Their multifunctional design makes them a convenient and efficient choice, simplifying skateboard maintenance.
What are the best skateboard tools?
The best skateboard tools depend on your specific needs and budget.
How often should I clean bearings?
According to experience, you should clean bearings every few months or when bearings start to feel slow or make noise. Regular cleaning can prolong the skateboard's lifespan and improve its performance.
What can I use to clean my grip tape?
You can use grip tape cleaner to maintain the effectiveness of grip tape.
Remember, skateboarding is not just about having the best skateboard; it's also about having the best-maintained skateboard. Therefore, equip yourself with the right skateboard tools and keep rolling smoothly.