Skateboard trucks are one of the most important components of a skateboard. They play a major role in how well the board rides and how durable it is. But are skateboard trucks universal?
In this blog post, we will explore whether or not skateboard trucks can be used on other types of boards and what makes each truck unique. Stay tuned to find out more!
What are skateboard trucks and what do they do?
Skateboard trucks are the metal axles that connect the wheels to the deck of the skateboard. They come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, but their primary purpose is always the same- to provide stability and durability for the board.
There are two main types of skateboard trucks: standard trucks and low trucks.
Standard trucks are typically used for street skateboarding, while low trucks are better suited for tricks and transitions.
What makes each truck unique is the width, height and angle of the hanger. The width of the truck should be proportional to the width of the deck- if you have a wide deck, you will need wide trucks. The height of the truck affects how high the board sits off the ground and the angle of the hanger determines how responsive the trucks are.
Are Skateboard Trucks Universal – Will they fit any skateboard deck?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. Certain trucks are made specifically for certain types of decks but in general, most trucks will fit any deck.
It’s important to note that not all trucks are created equal. Some trucks may be better suited for certain types of skateboarding than others.
For example, if you are looking to do a lot of transition skating (skateboarding on ramps and half-pipes), you will want a truck that is lower and more responsive.
On the other hand, if you are mostly skateboarding on flat ground, a taller truck might be more appropriate.
How to choose the right skateboard truck size?
- The first step in choosing the right truck size is to measure the width of your skateboard deck. Once you have that measurement, you can find a truck that is either the same width or slightly wider. It’s important to avoid trucks that are too wide for your deck, as they will make the board less stable and more difficult to control.
- The next step is to consider the height of the truck. You will want to choose a truck that is proportional to the width of your deck- if you have a wide deck, you should choose wide trucks. If you have a narrow deck, you can choose either narrow or wide trucks. The height of the truck will affect how high the board sits off the ground, so keep that in mind when making your decision.
- Finally, you will want to consider the angle of the hanger. The angle of the hanger determines how responsive the trucks are, so it’s important to choose a truck that is appropriate for the type of skating you want to do.
If you are mostly skateboarding on flat ground, a truck with a lower angle might be more appropriate. If you are mostly skateboarding on ramps and half-pipes, you will want a truck with a higher angle.
When it comes to choosing the right skateboard truck, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best way to find the right truck is to experiment with different sizes and styles until you find the one that works best for you.
How to tighten loose skateboard trucks?
If your skateboard trucks are loose, there are a few things you can do to tighten them.
- First thing you should do is check the kingpin. The kingpin is the bolt that holds the truck to the deck. If the kingpin is loose, it will cause the truck to be loose as well. To tighten the kingpin, use a wrench to tighten the nut.
- If the kingpin is tight, the next thing you should check is the axle nuts. The axle nuts hold the axle in place and if they are loose, it will cause the truck to be loose. To tighten the axle nuts, use a wrench to tighten the nuts.
- If the axle nuts are tight, the next thing you should check is the bushings. The bushings are the part of the truck that allows it to pivot. If the bushings are worn out, it will cause the truck to be loose. To tighten the bushings, use a wrench to tighten the nuts.
- If the bushings are tight, the next thing you should check is the washers. The washers are located under the trucks and they help to keep the trucks tight. To tighten the washers, use a wrench to tighten the nuts.
- If the washers are tight, the next thing you should check is the bolts. The bolts hold the trucks to the deck and if they are loose, it will cause the trucks to be loose. To tighten the bolts, use a wrench to tighten the nuts.
- If the bolts are tight, your trucks should be tight. If your trucks are still loose, you may need to replace the bushings or the axle nuts.
FAQs – Are skateboard trucks universal?
Are skateboard trucks interchangeable?
Yes, skateboard trucks are interchangeable. You can put any size truck on any size deck. However, it is important to note that the width of the truck should be proportional to the width of the deck.
For example, if you have a wide deck, you should use wide trucks. If you have a narrow deck, you can use either narrow or wide trucks.
What size did trucks fit an 8.25 board?
The trucks that fit an 8.25 board are typically called “mini” trucks and range in size from about 5.0″ to 6.0″. There are a few companies that make 7.0″ trucks, but they are less common and not as popular as the smaller ones.
Most skateboarders who ride an 8.25 board will usually go with a 5.5″ or 6.0″ truck. Anything larger than that may be too big and could cause the board to feel unstable.
Do all bushings fit all trucks?
No, all bushings do not fit all trucks. Each truck has a specific bushing size that it requires. The two most common sizes are 90a and 92a, but there are other sizes as well.
Be sure to check what size bushing your truck requires before purchasing any.
How much does a bushing replacement cost?
A bushing replacement typically costs between $10 and $15. This will vary depending on the brand and where you purchase them from.
How tight should the trucks on a skateboard be?
The trucks on a skateboard should be tight enough that they do not rattle but not so tight that they are difficult to turn.
A good rule of thumb is to start with the kingpin nut loose enough that you can easily spin the wheel and then tighten it until there is no play in the truck.
Wrap Up
Although skateboard trucks are made to fit most decks, there is a small chance that they may not be compatible with your board.
If you’re having trouble tightening the truck or it feels like it’s too loose, you can take your skateboard to a local shop and have them help you find the right size truck for your deck.
In general, though, skateboard trucks are pretty universal and should work with most decks.
