How to Cut a Kingpin on a Skateboard

A skateboard's kingpin is essential in holding the entire skateboard truck together. The kingpin system attaches the truck's hangar to the base-plate, and consists of a bolt, nut, washers and bushings. When cutting or grinding an over-sized kingpin, the trick to maintaining the threads on the bolt is to tighten the nut past the cutting point before the cut is made. Afterwards, you can slowly remove the nut to restore any damaged threads on the end of the bolt.

Things You'll Need

  • Philips screwdriver
  • Skateboard tool or 1/2 inch wrench
  • Hacksaw, bolt cutters or grinder
  • Bench vise or table clamps
  • Metal file
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the skateboard truck from the deck by taking out all four screws.

    • 2

      Loosen the nut from the kingpin bolt with a skateboard tool or 1/2-inch wrench. Remove the nut, bushings and washers from the kingpin. Remove the hangar and set aside. It is not necessary to remove the kingpin bolt from the base-plate of the truck.

    • 3

      Screw the nut back onto the kingpin bolt. Tighten the nut onto the bolt as far as possible -- you will need to screw the nut past the point that will be cut off.

    • 4

      Secure the truck for cutting with table clamps or a bench vise.

    • 5

      Cut the kingpin bolt with a hacksaw, bolt cutters or grinder. Use a file to remove any sharp edges from the cut end.

    • 6

      Apply a small amount of oil or metal lubricant to the bolt. Slowly remove the nut with a wrench or skateboard tool to restore the threads on the kingpin bolt.

    • 7

      Reassemble the truck by replacing the hangar, washers, bushings and nut to the kingpin bolt.