How to Clean Longboard Bearings

In a longboard, the first obvious symptom of bearing wear is often bearing failure. Be attuned to the more subtle signs, such as bearing noise --- if you can hear your bearings, stop using them immediately. If they get wet or don't rotate freely, take corrective measures without delay. Be proactive, not reactive, and stay ahead of the preventative-maintenance curve. Clean and lubricate longboard bearings after every 50 hours of riding even if they are still spinning free.

Things You'll Need

  • Small flat screwdriver
  • 1/2-inch wrench
  • Paper clip
  • Acetone or mineral spirits
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Skate lube
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the wheel nut with a 1/2-inch wrench and remove the wheel from the skateboard.

    • 2

      Pop the bearing out of the longboard wheel using the edge of a small flat screwdriver. Place the edge of the screwdriver in the space between the bearing and the wheel. Pry gently downward until the bearing pops out of the wheel.

    • 3

      Pry the rubber bearing seal out with a bent paper clip or other small instrument.

    • 4

      Wipe away obvious dirt or grime with a clean cotton towel.

    • 5

      Place the bearing in a container of mineral spirits or acetone. Shake the container or stir vigorously to circulate the solvent through the bearings. Soak the bearings for 15 minutes.

    • 6

      Remove the bearings from the solvent. Place the bearings in a container of isopropyl alcohol. Shake the container or stir vigorously to circulate the alcohol through the bearings. Remove the bearings and allow them to air dry thoroughly.

    • 7

      Wipe the rubber seal clean with a rag moistened with isopropyl alcohol.

    • 8

      Put two drops of skate lubricant into the bearings and spin the bearing to distribute it.

    • 9

      Replace the rubber seal and press the bearing back into the wheel.

    • 10

      Reinstall the wheel on the skateboard and tighten with a 1/2-inch wrench.

    • 11

      Repeat the procedure on the other three wheels.