How to Replace Skateboard Bearings

Last Updated: October 18, 2022

Sometimes, skateboard bearings need more than cleaning. Bearings can get rusted or pitted beyond repair, and when that happens there’s no real solution beyond replacing them. Luckily, replacing your bearings is one of the easier (and more satisfying) skateboard projects. In this article, we’ll break down everything you’ll need to do in order to install some fresh bearings so you can get back on the board.

1

Purchase replacement bearings.

Obtain the correct replacement bearings for your wheels. Your local skateboard shop should be able to help if you don’t know what kind of bearings you’d need.

2

Take the wheels off.

Remove the wheels with a ratchet or skate tool. Put the two washers and nut from the wheel in a bag or other small container so you do not lose them.^{[1]
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3

Put the first bearing on the axle.

Place the bearing on the edge of the axle of the truck.^{[2]
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4

Pry the bearing off.

Continue to slowly apply pressure until it pops off. If you're going to throw the bearings away anyway, you don't need to be too delicate with them, but try not to damage the wheel in the process.^{[3]
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5

Repeat this process on the other wheels.

Repeat the process for the bearing on the other side of the wheel.

6

Slide the bearings into place.

Drop the new bearings into the hole in the wheel or truck. Go for whatever makes this easier for you when it comes to attaching the bearings.^{[4]
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7

Put the wheel on the truck.

With the bearing in place, slide the wheel on to the truck. Put the wheel onto the truck of the skateboard and press down on the wheel to press the bearing into place.

8

Install the spacer.

Put the bearing spacer inside the wheel on the other side.^{[5]
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9

Slide the bearing on.

Repeat the process to press the second bearing into place.

10

Repeat this process for the other wheels.

Add the second bearing to each of your wheels.

11

Swap out the washers and nuts.

Make sure they’re secure before tightening everything. The wheels should rotate without the bearing jiggling or providing friction.

12

Go skateboarding.

Enjoy your new board and it’s smooth ride! With your bearings replaced, your wheels should feel brand new now.

Community Q&A

Question

What tool do I use to pry the bearings out?

Community Answer

Put the wheel on the truck axle, and pull the wheel at an angle until the bearing comes out.
Question

Do I need to have a spacer in-between the bearings?

Community Answer

Some wheels have a molded integrated spacer, some require a separate piece.