If you’re an avid skateboarder or longboarder, you know how important it is to have your trucks set up just right. While tight trucks offer stability and control, loose trucks allow for smoother turns and a more comfortable ride. In this article, we’ll show you how to loosen your trucks to achieve the perfect balance between control and comfort.
Step 1: Remove the Nuts
The first step to loosening your trucks is to remove the nuts that hold them in place. Use a skate tool or wrench to loosen the nuts on each truck, but don’t remove them completely. Simply loosen them enough so that the truck can move freely.
Step 2: Adjust the Kingpin
The kingpin is the large bolt that runs through the center of your truck. Tightening or loosening the kingpin will adjust the tension on your trucks. To loosen your trucks, use a skate tool or wrench to turn the kingpin counterclockwise. Start with a quarter turn and test your board to see how it feels. If you want it looser, continue to turn the kingpin until you achieve the desired level of looseness.
Step 3: Adjust the Bushings
The bushings are the small rubber or urethane cushions that sit between the truck and the baseplate. Tighter bushings will make your board feel more stable, while looser bushings will make it feel more responsive. To loosen your trucks, you’ll need to replace your bushings with softer ones. Look for bushings with a lower durometer rating, which indicates that they’re softer and more flexible.
Step 4: Test Your Board
Once you’ve adjusted your kingpin and bushings, it’s time to test your board. Take it for a spin and see how it feels. If it’s still too tight, repeat steps 2 and 3 until you achieve the desired level of looseness.
Step 5: Maintain Your Trucks
Now that your trucks are properly loosened, it’s important to maintain them. Keep an eye on your nuts to make sure they’re tightened enough to keep your trucks secure, but not so tight that they restrict movement. You should also check your bushings regularly to make sure they’re not worn out or cracked. If they are, replace them as soon as possible.
With these steps, you can achieve the perfect level of looseness for your trucks and enjoy a more comfortable ride.
People Also Ask
What is the difference between tight and loose trucks?
Tight trucks offer stability and control, while loose trucks allow for smoother turns and a more comfortable ride.
How do I know if my trucks are too loose?
If your board feels wobbly or unstable, your trucks may be too loose.
How do I know if my trucks are too tight?
If your board feels stiff or unresponsive, your trucks may be too tight.