Is it bad if my skateboard squeaks?

Having a skateboard that squeaks isn’t necessarily bad, but it can be indicative of a few potential issues. Squeaking could be caused by loose hardware, such as trucks or bearings, which may need tightening or lubrication. Additionally, worn-out bearings or dry bushings can also lead to squeaking. While the noise itself may not be a cause for major concern, it’s always a good idea to address any potential problems to ensure optimal performance and safety. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating your skateboard components, can help alleviate squeaking and keep your ride smooth and enjoyable.

Is it bad if my skateboard squeaks?

If your skateboard squeaks, it’s generally an indicator of friction or tension somewhere within the components. While a squeak itself isn’t immediately harmful, it can be a sign of an underlying issue that you should address to ensure a smoother ride and prevent potential problems. Here’s what to consider:

Bushings

One of the most common sources of squeaking on a skateboard is the bushings. The rubbery components sit between the truck’s hanger and baseplate. These bushings compress and expand when you turn or lean on your board. If they’re dry or not lubricated, they can squeak against the trucks.

• Solution: Lightly lubricate the bushings. You can do this by disassembling the trucks and applying a small amount of soap shavings or a specialized skateboard lubricant to the bushings. After reassembling, the squeaking should be reduced or eliminated.

Pivot Cups

The pivot cup is another potential source of squeaking. It’s where the truck’s hanger pivots when you turn. If it’s dry or wearing out, it can produce a squeak.

• Solution: Lubricate the pivot cup with a small amount of soap shavings or appropriate lubricant. If the pivot cup shows significant wear, consider replacing it.

Bearings

While they’re more commonly associated with grinding or crunching noises when dirty or damaged, they can sometimes produce a squeak, especially if they’re starting to rust.

• Solution: Clean and lubricate your bearings. If they continue to make noise or don’t spin freely, consider replacing them.

Deck and Trucks

Sometimes, where the trucks are mounted to the deck can produce noise if there’s any movement or if the hardware is not tight.

• Solution: Ensure all hardware is securely tightened. Consider addressing or replacing the necessary parts if there’s wear or any stripped screw holes.

While a squeak isn’t immediately dangerous, it’s a sign that something is amiss. Addressing the squeak not only ensures a more enjoyable ride but can also prevent further issues and ensure the longevity of your skateboard components. Regular maintenance and checks will help you catch and address such issues promptly.

How to fix squeaky skateboard bearings?

Squeaky skateboard bearings can be annoying and a sign that your bearings may need attention. Addressing this issue promptly can help prevent further damage and ensure a smooth ride. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix squeaky skateboard bearings:

Safety First

Always ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area, especially using cleaning agents or lubricants.

Removal

• Start by removing the wheels from the trucks using a skateboard tool or wrench.
• Once the wheels are off, use the end of the axle or a specialized bearing removal tool to pop the bearings out of the wheels.

Cleaning

• Wipe off any surface dirt from the bearings using a clean rag.
• Place the bearings in a container with a bearing cleaner or a solvent like isopropyl alcohol. Citrus-based cleaners can also be effective.
• Shake the container gently to agitate the solution and help dislodge any dirt or debris from the bearings.
• Allow the bearings to soak for a few minutes, then shake again.
• Remove the bearings from the solution and lay them on a clean cloth or paper towel to dry. Make sure they’re thoroughly dry to prevent rusting.

Lubrication

• Once your bearings are completely dry, it’s time to lubricate them. Use a skateboard-specific bearing lubricant or light machine oil. Avoid heavy oils or WD-40, as they can attract more dirt and aren’t ideal for long-term performance.
• Apply a drop or two of the lubricant to each bearing, then spin the bearing to distribute the lubricant evenly.

Reassembly

• Carefully press the bearings back into the skateboard wheels. Make sure they’re seated properly.
• Reattach the wheels to the trucks, ensuring that the nuts are tightened just enough to hold the wheels in place without restricting their movement.

Testing

• Give your skateboard a roll-and-turn test. The squeaking should be gone, and the board should roll smoothly.

Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubricating your bearings, will ensure they last longer and perform at their best. It’s a good habit to check and clean your bearings periodically, especially if you skate in dirty or wet environments.

How can I prevent my skateboard from squeaking?

Preventing your skateboard from squeaking involves regular maintenance and a bit of attention to its various components. Squeaking typically originates from friction or tension in parts of the skateboard. Here are some steps to prevent these noises:

Lubricate the Bushings

• Bushings, the rubbery rings that sit between the truck’s hanger and baseplate, are a common source of squeaks when they’re dry.
• Disassemble the trucks and apply a small amount of soap shavings, paraffin wax, or specialized skateboard lubricant to the bushings. This reduces friction and thus prevents squeaking.

Maintain the Pivot Cups

• The pivot cup, where the truck’s hanger pivots during turns, can also squeak if dry or worn out.
• Apply a little lubricant or soap shavings to the pivot cup area. If you notice significant wear on the pivot cup, consider replacing it.

Clean and Lubricate Bearing

• Dirty or dry bearings can sometimes cause squeaking or grinding noises.
• Periodically remove and clean the bearings with a cleaner specifically designed for skateboard bearings or with isopropyl alcohol.
• Once clean, ensure the bearings are dry, then lubricate them with a skateboard-specific bearing lubricant or light machine oil. Avoid heavy or thick lubricants as they can attract dirt.

Check the Deck and Trucks

• Ensure that all hardware connecting the trucks to the deck is securely fastened. A loose bolt can occasionally cause squeaks or other noises.
• If using riser pads between your trucks and deck, ensure they’re in good condition and not causing any noise.

Avoid Water and Excessive Dirt

• Try not to ride your skateboard through water or in squalid conditions. Moisture can cause rusting in the bearings and other metal parts, leading to squeaking.
• If you accidentally ride through water, dry your board as thoroughly as possible and consider cleaning and re-lubricating the bearings.

Regularly Inspect and Replace Worn Out Parts

• Components like bushings, pivot cups, and even bearings wear out over time. Regularly inspect them and replace any parts that show significant wear.

Quality Components

• Invest in quality skateboard components. Better-quality parts tend to last longer and are less prone to issues like squeaking.

Regularly inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining your skateboard can prevent it from squeaking and ensure a smoother and safer ride.

Conclusion

While a squeaky skateboard may not necessarily be a cause for immediate concern, it is important to address the issue to maintain optimal performance and safety. Skateboards can squeak due to various factors such as loose hardware, worn-out bearings, or lack of lubrication.

Regular maintenance and proper care are vital in preventing your skateboard from squeaking. Keep an eye on the condition of your bearings and replace them when necessary. Tighten any loose bolts or nuts that might be causing the noise. Applying lubricant to your bearings can also help reduce friction and eliminate those annoying squeaks.