How To Remove Longboard Trucks

In the exhilarating world of longboarding, mastering the mechanics behind your board is paramount. One of the fundamental aspects every rider should acquaint themselves with is how to remove and replace longboard trucks. Having navigated through numerous boards and fine-tuned my setup over the years, I’ve come to understand the intricacies of this process firsthand.

In this article, I’ll share a comprehensive guide based on my experiences, outlining the essential steps and tips for efficiently removing longboard trucks. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious beginner eager to customize your ride, this guide will assist you in maneuvering through this crucial aspect of longboarding maintenance.

What You Will Need

To safely and effectively remove longboard trucks, you will need the following items:

1. Cross-head screwdriver:

The screwdriver is essential for removing the bolts that secure the trucks to the deck. Make sure you have a screwdriver that matches the size of your Longboard bolts. Using a screwdriver with a too-wide or small tip can cause damage to the bolts or the deck itself. A screwdriver with a quality rubber grip can provide better control and prevent slipping.

2. Socket or spanner:

In addition to screws, Longboard trucks are also secured with nuts that provide support from the bottom of the deck. Having a socket or spanner is crucial for holding the nuts still or counter-rotating them while using the screwdriver. This prevents the nuts from loosening or spinning while you remove the screws. Consider using a ball ratchet with the same size as your socket for added convenience and easy access to the nuts.

3. Longboard:

To practice removing trucks, it’s best to have an extra Longboard or one that requires replacement or adjustments. This allows you to gain experience without potentially damaging your beloved longboard deck. If you’re working with a new Longboard, you’ll need to remove the trucks as they are often outside the packaging, with a protective wrap around the deck.

4. Clean and smooth working space:

Find a wide table or clean floor to use as your working station. Ensure that the surface is flat and will not cause scratches or damage to your deck when you place it down. If possible, place a soft but non-slip cloth underneath the Longboard to minimize the chances of scratches or dents and to prevent the deck from slipping during the removal process.

Steps on Taking Trucks Off a Longboard

Taking your Longboard’s trucks off should not be too hard for you. But to avoid mistakes some Longboard users commit, follow these step-by-step procedures:

1. Prepare all the tools you need:

• Grab either a T-tool or a combination of a spanner and a screwdriver. Choose the set that is most convenient and easy for you to use.
• Keep the tools within your reach, as you may need to use both of your hands simultaneously.

2. Positioning your Longboard:

• Place a spare cloth on your working space before positioning your Longboard.
• Position the Longboard based on which hand holds the tool better.
• If you plan to use your right hand with a socket for nut rotation, the stepping surface should face your left, allowing the screwdriver to support the movement of the nuts.

3. Hold the nuts well:

• When loosening the bolts from the deck surface, hold the nuts of the screw you want to remove using a spanner or socket.
• Ensure that the size of the nuts matches the size of your spanner or socket to facilitate smooth rotation assisted by the screwdriver.

4. Aim for the screws:

• Use a cross-head screwdriver that matches the size of your Longboard bolts to remove the screws.
• Having the correct screwdriver size minimizes the risk of damaging the deck’s female thread.

5. Rotate the screws:

• If using a spanner and screwdriver, loosen the screws from the deck surface and hold the nuts with a spanner.
• Perform counter-rotation on the nuts with the spanner or use a socket to loosen the Longboard trucks.

6. Clean the deck:

• After loosening all the bolts, gently pull the Longboard trucks off.
• Keep the removed trucks in a single location for easy accessibility.
• Remove any spacing blocks placed between the Longboard truck and the bottom of the deck.

Pro Tips

Pro Tips for Removing Longboard Trucks:

1. Use the Right Tools:

• A T-tool or a combination of a spanner and screwdriver are both handy for removing longboard trucks. Choose the tool that is most convenient and easy for you to use.
• If you prefer using a ball ratchet and socket, make sure your dominant hand holds the ratchet for easy screw loosening.

2. Position your Longboard:

• Before removing the trucks, place a spare cloth or mat on your working surface to protect your Longboard.
• Position the Longboard in a way that allows you to have a secure grip on the nuts and easily access the screws you need to remove.

3. Securely Hold the Nuts:

• When loosening the bolts from the deck surface, use a spanner or socket to hold the nuts firmly in place.
• Make sure the size of your spanner or socket matches the size of the nuts for smooth rotation.

4. Remove the Screws:

• Choose a cross-head screwdriver that matches the size of your Longboard bolts to avoid damaging the deck’s female threads.

5. Loosen the Trucks:

• If using a spanner and screwdriver, loosen the screws from the deck surface while holding the nuts with the spanner.
• Perform counter-rotation on the nuts with the spanner or use a socket with a ball ratchet to loosen the Longboard trucks.

6. Keep Everything Organized:

• Prepare a cup or container to collect all the bolts and nuts. This will help you keep them intact and prevent loss.
• Once you’ve removed the trucks, place them in a single location for easy accessibility.

7. Clean the Trucks:

• Before reinstalling or storing the trucks, take the opportunity to clean them. This will help maintain their performance and extend their lifespan.

8. Consider Investing in a T-Tool:

• If you frequently work on your Longboard, consider getting a T-tool. It is an all-in-one tool that includes a socket wrench, screwdriver, and Allen wrench for easy Longboard maintenance.

Should You Replace Your Hardware After Removing Your Trucks?

After removing your trucks, you may notice that some of the bolts are difficult to unthread or have a stripped head. These issues can occur over time due to repeated impact or the use of incorrect tools. Damaged threads and stripped heads can make it challenging to remove the nuts from the bolts. If you encounter these problems, it is a good idea to replace your hardware.

Ideally, the nuts should thread smoothly off the bolts without any difficulty. If you had no issues removing the hardware, it is safe to reuse them for your next setup. However, if you struggle to remove the hardware, it is best to replace it to ensure optimal performance and prevent any future difficulties.

While a skate tool is convenient for removing trucks, household tools can also be used if you prefer to work with what you have. Regardless of the tools you use, the process of removing and replacing the hardware should only take a few minutes once you are familiar with the steps.

FAQs

Conclusion:

Removing longboard trucks may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of patience, it can be done. Remember to take your time, follow the step-by-step instructions, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Soon enough, you’ll be riding with a new set of trucks and experiencing a whole new level of freedom and control on your longboard. So go ahead, grab your tools, and get ready to hit the streets with confidence! Happy riding!