How To Build A Skateboard | Tactics

Putting together a skateboard is a pretty straightforward process, but it requires some time. Many skateboarders prefer to assemble their own boards because it allows them to have a closer look at each component and fine-tune them according to their preferences. Assuming that you’ve already put the griptape on your skateboard, we’ll dive into the process of how to set up a skateboard in 4 steps, broken down to teach you everything you need to know.

These are the steps to setting up a skateboard

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Step 2: Mounting the Trucks

Step 3: Insert the Bearings into the Wheels

Step 4: Attach the Wheels

Step 1: Gather Materials

Here is what you will need

• Skateboard Deck- If your deck still needs griptape, consult this article on how to apply griptape.
• Trucks - A pair of trucks to grind & act as your axel. If you need to know how to pick them go here.
• Hardware - Eight screws, eight corresponding nuts, eight axle washers, and four lock nuts.
• Wheels - You'll need 4 wheels that should all be the same; don’t mix and match.
• Bearings - Two bearings fit inside each wheel, for a total of eight bearings.
• Riser Pads- Using riser pads is optional, if you want them you need 2.
• Skate Tool - Skate tools typically have a socket and screwdriver that works for each type of hardware.

Step 2: Mounting The Trucks

The next step is to mount your trucks

• Carefully use a screwdriver to poke holes through the griptape where the screw holes of your skateboard deck are.
• Insert all eight screws into the holes and then carefully flip the deck so the bottom side is facing up.
• If using risers, place them between the deck and the baseplate before sliding the trucks onto the screws through the baseplate.
• Ensure the trucks are oriented with the kingpins and bushings facing each other.
• Loosely hold the trucks in place with nuts and use a skate tool or adjustable wrench to tighten the screws in a "crisscross" pattern.

Once both trucks are secured, go to the next step.

Step 3: Insert Bearings

Next, let's Insert the bearings

• Tilt your skateboard to the side, placing a bearing onto an upward-facing axle.
• Place two bearings with their shields down onto your trucks.
• Slide on a wheel and use firm & consistent downward pressure to force the bearing into the wheel socket until it clicks into place. Repeat this process with the other side of the wheel. *Be careful not to bend or dent your bearing shields
• Repeat this process for the remaining three wheels.

Now you're ready for the last step.

Step 4: Attach The Wheels To The Trucks

Finally, grab your wheels, washers & lock-nuts

• To attach each wheel, slide on a speed washer, followed by the wheel with bearings inserted, and then add the second washer.
• Secure this entire arrangement of parts by screwing on the lock nut.
• Repeat this process on the other side of the board after attaching the wheels on one side.
• Your board is now ready to ride. However, inspect it thoroughly to ensure everything is in order, checking for any loose hardware.

Now go skate!

More Skateboarding

Shop All Skateboards Top 10 Best Skate Shoes How-to Pick Skate Shoes Skateboard Buying Guide