A lot of skateboarders wonder if they need to put spacers between their skateboard wheels. The answer is…it depends.
In this blog post, we’ll explore when you might need spacers and take a look at the pros and cons of using spacers. We’ll also give you some tips on how to choose the right spacer for your setup. Read on to learn more!
Do skateboard wheels need spacers?
There are a lot of different opinions on whether or not skateboard wheels need spacers. Some people say that they don’t need them because the bearings themselves provide enough space, while others believe that spacers are necessary in order to prevent damage to the bearings and the wheel. So, what’s the truth? Do skateboard wheels need spacers?
Spacers are not required for most skateboard wheel setups. However, there are a few cases where spacers may be needed or recommended.
What are spacers and why do they need to be used on skateboard wheels?
Spacers are small discs that are placed between the inner and outer bearings of a skateboard wheel. They come in a variety of thicknesses. Spacers are made of different materials, but most are made of either plastic or metal.
There are a few different scenarios where spacers may be needed or recommended for skateboard wheels.
1- If you’re using riser pads:
If you’re using riser pads to elevate your trucks above the deck of your skateboard, you’ll need to use spacers between your wheels and the riser pads.
This is because the hardware that secures the wheels to the trucks (axles and nuts) is not long enough to go through both the riser pad and the wheel.
Spacers provide a spacer between the riser pad and the wheel, allowing the hardware to properly secure the wheel to the truck.
2- If you’re using aftermarket wheels:
Some aftermarket skateboard wheels are made with a different width hub than standard skateboard wheels. In order for these wheels to fit properly on your skateboard, you’ll need to use spacers.
This is because the inner width of your truck’s axle holes may not be wide enough to accommodate the wider hub of the aftermarket wheel.
Spacers will provide the extra space needed to properly mount the wider wheel onto your truck.
3- If you’re concerned about bearing damage:
Another reason why some people choose to use spacers is to prevent damage to their bearings. When a bearing sits directly against a hard surface (like a metal axle or riser pad), there is a chance that the bearing could become damaged.
Spacers provide a cushion between the hard surface and the bearing, helping to protect the bearings from damage.
4- If you’re using speed rings:
If you’re using speed rings, you’ll need to use spacers. Speed rings are used to prevent the bearings from coming out of the wheels when going fast. The spacers go on the outside of the bearings and keep them in place.
How to choose the right spacer for your skateboard wheels?
When choosing spacers for your skateboard wheels, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- First, you’ll need to decide what material you want your spacers to be made of. Spacers are typically made from either plastic or metal. The type of material you choose is mostly a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the look of metal spacers, while others prefer the durability of plastic spacers.
- It’s also important to make sure that you choose the right size spacers for your wheels. Spacers come in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from 1mm to 3mm. The thickness of the spacer will determine how much space is provided between the wheel and the surface of the skateboard.
- If you’re using aftermarket wheels, you’ll need to make sure that the spacers you choose are wide enough to accommodate the wider hub of the wheel.
- You’ll also need to decide how many spacers you want to use. The number of spacers you use is mostly a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to use two spacers per wheel, while others prefer to use four spacers per wheel.
Benefits of using spacers on your skateboard wheels.
- It helps to prevent damage to your bearings.
- Spacers can provide extra space for aftermarket wheels.
- To keep your aftermarket wheels from coming loose.
- Used with speed rings to keep your bearings in place.
- Elevate your trucks if you’re using riser pads.
- Provide additional cushioning to help absorb impacts.
- Spacers can make your skateboard look clean and stylish.
- Installing spacers is a fairly simple process.
How to install skateboard wheel spacers?
Installing spacers on your skateboard wheels is a fairly simple process.
- First, you’ll need to remove the wheels from your skateboard.
- Next, remove the bearings from the wheels.
- Once the bearings are removed, you can place the spacers onto the axle of your trucks.
- Make sure that the spacers are facing the same direction as the bearing (the narrow part of the spacer should be facing the inside of the wheel).
- Now, it’s time to re-install your wheels onto your trucks. Be sure to tighten the hardware securely, but don’t over-tighten it.
- Once your wheels are back on, give them a spin to make sure that they’re spinning freely.
Tips for keeping your spacers in good condition.
- When you’re not using your skateboard, be sure to store your spacers in a safe place.
- Avoid dropping or stepping on your spacers, as this can damage them.
- Periodically check your spacers for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, be sure to replace them.
- When cleaning your skateboard, take care not to get any cleaners or solvents on your spacers.
- Avoid exposing your spacers to extreme heat or cold, as this can cause them to warp or crack.
- When installing your spacers, be sure to use the proper size screws. Using too small of a screw could strip the threads on the spacer, making it difficult to remove in the future.
- When removing your spacers, be sure to hold onto the skater so that they don’t fall and get lost. Spacers are small and can be difficult to find if they’re not properly secured.
FAQS:
Do all skateboard wheels need spacers?
No, not all skateboard wheels need spacers. However, spacers can be beneficial for certain types of skateboarding.
Can you ride without spacers?
Yes, you can ride without spacers. However, spacers can provide certain benefits that may be beneficial for your skateboarding.
Are washers necessary on skateboards?
No, washers are not necessary on skateboards. However, they can be used in conjunction with spacers to provide additional benefits.
Why are my bearings loud skateboard?
There are a few reasons why your bearings might be making noise. It could be that the spacers are too small, causing the bearings to rub against the side of the wheel.
It could also be that the bearings are not properly lubricated, which can cause them to make noise as well.
Do Bones bearings come with spacers?
No, Bones bearings do not come with spacers. However, they are compatible with most standard spacers.
Conclusion:
Spacers may not be necessary for skateboard wheels after all. If you are using standard skateboard wheels with a modern truck, then you don’t need spacers.
However, if you are using old-style or large skateboard wheels, then it is best to use spacers to prevent the wheel from rubbing against the truck.
