Does your skateboard make a weird squeaking sound whenever you turn? Squeaky skateboard trucks are a common problem, but fortunately, they're usually easy to fix.
In many cases, the squeaking comes from friction between the metal and rubber components inside your trucks, particularly around the pivot cup and bushings. One simple solution is to use skateboard wax as a dry lubricant.
Why Do Skateboard Trucks Squeak?
When you turn your skateboard, several components inside the truck move and rub against each other. According to the video, the squeaking typically comes from the contact points between the metal and rubber components, particularly around the pivot cup and bushing areas.
Fortunately, you don't necessarily need to replace your trucks or bushings just because they're squeaking. Adding a small amount of wax to these contact points can help reduce the friction that causes the noise.
What You Need to Fix Squeaky Trucks
The fix is simple. You'll need:
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A small container if you're making wax shavings
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A knife or suitable tool for shaving the wax
The video demonstrates shaving the skate wax into small pieces before applying it to the truck components.
How to Fix Squeaky Skateboard Trucks
Step 1: Remove the Truck Components
Start by loosening your skateboard trucks and opening up the components around the bushings and pivot cup.
The goal is to access the areas where the rubber and metal components make contact.
Step 2: Apply Skate Wax
Take your wax shavings and apply them directly to the contact points.
Pay particular attention to the pivot cup area and the bushings. The video recommends applying a generous amount of wax to these areas.
You can also rub a piece of skateboard wax directly onto the contact surfaces rather than using shavings.
Step 3: Why Use Wax Instead of Oil?
You might wonder why you should use skateboard wax instead of a conventional lubricant such as oil or grease.
The main reason highlighted in the video is that wax acts as a dry lubricant. When you're skating outdoors, oil and grease can attract dust and dirt. Over time, this can create a dirty buildup around your trucks.
Using wax helps reduce friction without introducing a wet, sticky lubricant that can collect dust.
Step 4: Let the Wax Spread
After applying the wax, don't immediately tighten everything down. Give the wax some time to spread across the contact points as the truck components move.
Once the wax has spread, tighten your trucks back down using a skate tool.
Step 5: Test Your Trucks
After reassembling everything, turn your skateboard from side to side and listen for the squeak.
Your trucks should feel smooth and significantly quieter, without the annoying squeaking sound.
Is It Normal for Skateboard Trucks to Squeak?
Some noise from skateboard trucks can be normal, particularly as the bushings and pivot cups move against the truck components. However, excessive squeaking can be annoying and may indicate that the contact points need some lubrication.
If your trucks are otherwise functioning normally, trying a small amount of skateboard wax is a simple first step before replacing any components.
When Should You Replace Your Bushings or Pivot Cups?
Waxing is a solution for squeaking caused by friction, but it won't fix damaged or severely worn components.
If your bushings are cracked, deformed, or no longer providing the response you want, they may need replacing. Likewise, a damaged or excessively worn pivot cup may need to be replaced rather than simply lubricated.
For regular skateboard maintenance, it's a good idea to periodically inspect your trucks, bushings, pivot cups, wheels, bearings, and hardware.
Fix Your Squeaky Skateboard Trucks at Home
The good news is that fixing squeaky skateboard trucks doesn't have to be complicated. With some skateboard wax and a skate tool, you can carry out this simple maintenance job yourself at home.
If you're not comfortable taking your trucks apart, you can also bring your skateboard to us for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my skateboard trucks squeaking?
Squeaking can come from friction between the metal and rubber components of your trucks, particularly around the pivot cups and bushings.
How do I stop my skateboard trucks from squeaking?
One simple method is to apply skateboard wax to the contact points around the pivot cups and bushings. Allow the wax to spread before tightening the trucks and testing them.
Can I use oil on squeaky skateboard trucks?
You shouldn't! Use wax instead of oil or grease because wax is a dry lubricant and doesn't attract dust in the same way that oil or grease can.
Should I use skateboard wax on my bushings?
The video demonstrates applying wax to the bushing contact area to reduce friction and squeaking.
Should I wax my skateboard pivot cups?
Yes, applying skateboard wax to the pivot cup contact area is demonstrated as a way to reduce squeaking caused by friction.
Do squeaky trucks mean my skateboard is broken?
Not necessarily. Squeaking can simply be caused by friction between the truck components. Trying a small amount of wax is a simple maintenance step before considering replacement parts.
Can I fix squeaky skateboard trucks myself?
Yes. The process demonstrated in the video is simple enough to do at home with skateboard wax and a skate tool.
How often should I wax my skateboard trucks?
There isn't a specific interval given in the video. Reapply wax when the squeaking returns or when the truck components begin feeling less smooth.
Final Thoughts
Squeaky skateboard trucks can be annoying, but they're often surprisingly easy to fix. Before replacing your trucks, try applying skateboard wax to the contact points around the pivot cups and bushings.
A few minutes of basic skateboard truck maintenance can help make your trucks smoother and quieter, allowing you to get back to skating without that annoying squeak.