Why your skateboard bearings might not be broken, just dirty
In short: A seized bearing can feel like a mechanical failure, but it is often just a buildup of grime and dried lubricant. Proper maintenance can restore your roll without replacing hardware. However, using the wrong chemicals can actually make the problem worse by stripping away necessary moisture.
Skateboard bearings are pre-lubricated with oil or grease from the factory. As you ride, this lubricant naturally dries out, necessitating regular maintenance. For a quick fix while the bearings are still mounted on the board, you can apply a few drops of specialized lubricant—such as Bones Speed Cream—directly onto the bearing shield. Spinning the bearing allows the oil to distribute. It is critical to avoid aerosol sprays or products like WD40, as these act as drying agents and can degrade the bearing's performance. For a deeper clean, the internal components must be exposed. You can remove the bearing shield by using a razor or a small sharp straight edge to pop it out from the side. Once exposed, the bearing can be wiped down with rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits. For high-end components like ceramic or Swiss bearings, a dedicated bearing cleaner container is recommended to soak the parts in degreaser. For less expensive bearings, manual cleaning with household alcohol or spirits is usually sufficient. The final step involves re-lubrication. After cleaning, the bearings must be completely dry and spinning freely before adding oil. While high-end lubricants are ideal, standard car oils like Castrol can also be used. The key is moderation: after applying the oil, spin the bearings in your fingers to remove excess. If too much lubricant remains, it will act as an adhesive, causing sand and dust from the street to cling to the hardware and create more friction.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Clean Skateboard Bearings | Custom Skateboard
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