How to Build Your Own Skateboard
Complete skateboards are okay but if you really want to achieve the best board that perfectly fits your skill, then you must build your own skateboard. The entire process, if done from scratch may take a several hours and will require simple tools that are readily available at your local hardware if not in your own toolbox.
Tools:
- Allen wrench or Philips head screw driver
- Metal file
- Nut drivers
- Scratch awl
- Any straight blade like razor knife
- 3/8 inch wrench
- Keyhole saw
Materials needed:
- Ply board
- Glue
- Heavy press
- Wheels
- Trucks
Or,
- Skateboard kit which includes everything you need to build your skateboard
Preparing the Board:
If you are building a deck from plain plywood, measure and cut 7 or 9 identical boards. This will be your deck. The size of the deck is really up to you although you can use or slightly modify the standard measurements of commercial skateboards. Then, cover completely each ply with glue except the top and bottom plies. Stack the board and apply heavy pressure for at least two hours or until the glue dries. The press should shape the board’s kicktails. Then, take a template and use it as a guide to drill the holes of the board for the trucks. Draw the final shape of the board according to your desired shape. Cut it using a sharp knife or a band saw if you have one. Smooth out the edges of the board using sand paper or belt sander. Your deck is ready for paint.
Applying Grip tape
The grip tape should be larger than your deck. This way, you have plenty of space to work on. Align the tape to the deck. Start with the nose and peel away the adhesive towards the tail. Press the tape against the deck so that is permanently attaches onto the deck. Chase large air bubbles to the edge of the deck. Smaller air bubbles will work themselves out as you ride. Trim the excess grip tape by running a file around the edge of the deck. If you are having difficulty with cutting the tape, buff and file it again.
Installing wheels and trucks
Carefully attach the bearings into the wheels using the trucks as your leverage. When they are firmly secured, push them towards the truck and secure them with the nuts and bolts. Install the trucks on the deck and secure them using nuts and bolts. Make sure that the wheels and track rolls freely and you are ready to go.
Tags: skateboard
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