Req 2d7 — Build a Board

This hands-on requirement asks you to assemble a complete skateboard from components in the correct sequence. Have all your components ready before you begin.

What You Need

• Deck
• Grip tape
• 2 trucks
• 4 wheels
• 8 bearings (+ 8 bearing spacers if included)
• 8 hardware bolts and 8 nuts
• Skate tool (or hardware wrench and screwdriver)

Assembly Order

Step 1: Apply grip tape to the deck. Peel the backing off the grip tape. Starting at one end of the deck, carefully lay the grip tape down from one end to the other, pressing it firmly as you go to eliminate air bubbles. Use a skate tool or screwdriver handle to burnish (rub firmly) the edges so the tape adheres completely. Score and fold the excess tape over the edge, then use the edge of the skate tool to tear it cleanly around the deck perimeter. Use a nail or skate tool tip to poke holes through the grip tape at each truck mounting hole.

Step 2: Mount the trucks to the deck. Insert a bolt through each mounting hole from the top of the deck (through the grip tape). Flip the deck over and align the truck baseplate over the bolts. Thread on the nuts by hand, then tighten with the skate tool until the trucks are firm but not so tight that you strip the hardware. Check that all eight bolts and nuts are secure.

Step 3: Install bearings into the wheels. Press one bearing into each side of each wheel (two per wheel = eight total). Use the axle of the truck or a bearing press to seat each bearing fully — it should be flush with the wheel surface. If bearing spacers are included, place one between the two bearings inside the wheel.

Step 4: Mount wheels to trucks. Slide each wheel onto the truck axle. Thread on the axle nut and tighten until the wheel has a small amount of play (about 1mm of lateral wobble) but spins freely. Overtightening the axle nut compresses the bearings and prevents free spin.

Step 5: Final check. Spin each wheel — it should spin freely and smoothly. Check that all truck hardware is tight. Test the trucks by applying sideways pressure to the board: they should respond smoothly without binding. Your board is ready to ride.

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