How to Make My Skate Bearings Faster

Skate bearings are the heart of the skate wheel and what allow the board to go faster. If the bearings are slow, grind when they turn or have completely stopped moving, it is time for cleaning and lubrication. The time and care spent on bearing maintenance will have a big payoff in performance. BonesBearings.com, skateboardballbearings.com and skatelog.com all have great advice on bearing care. These simple steps will help bring the precision bearings back into top shape and make those wheels spin faster.

Things You'll Need

  • Wheel key, Allen wrench or hex key
  • Bearing puller
  • Soap and water solution
  • Bearing cleaning solution
  • Cleaning jar
  • Protective clothing such as eye shield, gloves and protective clothing
  • Bearing lubricant
  • Clean rag
  • Clean work area
Show More

Instructions

  1. Remove Bearings

    • 1

      Remove wheels from board with the wheel key.

    • 2

      Remove bearings from wheels with the bearing puller.

    • 3

      Remove the inner rubber shield.

    • 4

      Clean the rubber shields with soap and water. Dry it with a rag.

    Clean Bearings

    • 5

      Place the bearings in a container of the selected cleaning fluid.

    • 6

      Gently swirl the container to move the cleaning solution over the bearings.

    • 7

      Replace dirty solution with clean solution until the cleaning solution no longer becomes dirty.

    • 8

      Dry the bearings with compressed air if available. Otherwise, allow them to air dry.

    Lubricate bearings

    • 9

      Add selected lubricant to each bearing. One to two drops per bearing is recommended, but follow the bearing manufacturer's guidelines.

    • 10

      Reinstall the inner rubber shield.

    • 11

      Wipe off any excess lubricant with a rag.

    • 12

      Reinstall the bearings onto the wheels.

    • 13

      Reinstall the wheels on the chassis.