How to Clean Longboard Bearings With Isopropyl Alcohol

If you're a dedicated longboarder, inclement weather and messy road conditions probably won't stop you from hitting the streets for a shred session. While you're tough enough to handle a few puddle splashes, your bearings might not be; water can easily rust the bearings, causing a lot of damage and jeopardizing the lifespan of your board. However, if you clean the bearings right away you'll be able to prevent permanent damage and extend the lifespan of your board. Just be attentive to the state of your bearings and you can rest assured rain or shine.

Things You'll Need

  • Truck axle
  • Needle or thumbtack
  • Paper towel or toothbrush
  • Glass jar
  • Mineral spirits or acetone
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Bearing lubricant
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check that your bearings are actually in need of a cleaning; if they are making a crunchy sound or aren't spinning freely, chances are they're dirty.

    • 2

      Remove all the bearings from your longboard. Pry each one out with a truck axle. Remove the outer shields from the bearings with a needle or thumbtack.

    • 3

      Wipe away surface dirt and grime with a paper towel or toothbrush.

    • 4

      Place the bearings in a glass jar filled with mineral spirits; acetone will work also. Secure the lid on the jar and shake vigorously. Soak the bearings for 10 to 15 minutes.

    • 5

      Remove the bearings from the jar and rinse them with isopropyl alcohol to dry them out and remove any of the remaining dirt or grime.

    • 6

      Place two drops of bearing lubricant inside the dried bearings and spin them.

    • 7

      Replace the outer shields to the bearings and put them back into the wheels of your longboard.