How to Put Bearings on Skate Wheels?

Putting bearings on skate wheels is a straightforward process that utilizes the truck's axle as a pressing tool, ensuring a secure fit for smooth and efficient wheel rotation. This method is common across skateboards, longboards, and other similar setups.

Bearings are crucial components that allow your wheels to spin freely and efficiently, directly impacting your ride's speed and smoothness. Properly installing them ensures longevity for both your bearings and wheels.

Essential Tools and Components

Before you begin, gather the following:

• Skate wheels: The wheels you intend to put bearings into.
• Bearings: Typically, two bearings are needed per wheel (eight for a standard skateboard setup).
• Skateboard truck: An assembled truck to use its axle as a press.
• Bearing spacers (optional): Small cylindrical pieces that sit between the two bearings inside the wheel. They help align bearings and prevent them from being crushed when the axle nut is tightened.
• Clean cloth: For wiping down axles or bearings if needed.

Step-by-Step Bearing Installation

The most common and effective way to install bearings involves using your skateboard truck's axle.

1. Prepare Your Setup:

   • Ensure your truck axle is clean to prevent dirt from entering your new bearings.
   • Have your wheels, bearings, and optional spacers ready.

2. Install the First Bearing:

   • Take one bearing and carefully slide it onto the axle of your skateboard truck. As highlighted in the video reference, ensure the "shield facing outwards". The shield protects the bearing's internal components from dirt and debris.
   • Align one of your skate wheels with the bearing on the axle, ensuring the wheel's core opening is directly over the bearing.
   • "Press your wheel onto the bearing." Firmly push the wheel down onto the axle. The axle will act as a leverage point, effectively pressing the bearing into the wheel's core until it's fully seated. You might hear a soft click or feel it pop into place.

3. Add the Bearing Spacer (Optional):

   • If you're using bearing spacers, slide one onto the axle so it sits inside the wheel, between where the two bearings will be. "Bearing spacers keep your bearings" properly aligned, reducing friction and extending their lifespan.

4. Install the Second Bearing:

   • "Put another bearing on the axle." Place the second bearing onto the axle, aligning it with the other side of the wheel's core.
   • Just like with the first bearing, firmly press the wheel further onto the axle, pushing the second bearing into its seat within the wheel's core. Apply steady, even pressure until it's fully seated.

5. Check and Adjust:

   • Once both bearings are in, give the wheel a spin on the axle to ensure it rotates freely and smoothly.
   • Remove the wheel from the truck and repeat the process for the remaining wheels.

Tips for Optimal Bearing Performance

• Shield Direction: Always install bearings with the shield facing outwards. This provides the best protection against elements like dust and water that can damage the internal components.
• Bearing Spacers: While optional, spacers are highly recommended. They not only help "keep your bearings" parallel and aligned but also prevent them from binding or being crushed when you tighten your axle nuts, leading to a faster and smoother roll.
• Cleanliness: Always work in a clean environment to prevent any foreign particles from entering your new bearings during installation.
• Gentle Pressure: While force is needed, avoid excessive or uneven pressure during installation, as this can damage the bearing's race or shield.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

By following these steps, you can efficiently and correctly install bearings into your skate wheels, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.