How to Mount Longboard Trucks

Mounting longboard trucks might seem like a straightforward task, but getting it right can make all the difference in your ride. Whether you’re assembling a new board or simply replacing your old trucks, proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety.

Did you know that the position of your trucks can significantly influence the way your longboard handles? Whether you prefer cruising, carving, or downhill riding, understanding the nuances of truck placement can enhance your overall experience.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of mounting your longboard trucks, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride every time.

Best Longboard Trucks for Mounting

When it comes to mounting longboard trucks, selecting the right trucks is just as important as the installation process. The right pair of trucks ensures stability, control, and an overall better riding experience. Below are three top trucks we recommend, along with reasons why each is a great choice for your setup:

1. Paris V3 180mm Trucks

Paris V3 trucks are a favorite among many longboarders for their stability and smooth turns. Their responsive nature makes them perfect for cruising and carving, giving riders the freedom to glide with ease. These trucks feature a durable design and a reliable 50° baseplate, which helps improve control while maintaining a responsive feel.

Why We Picked It: Paris V3 trucks provide excellent versatility, making them ideal for various riding styles. Whether you’re into carving, cruising, or downhill, they offer solid performance for all.

2. Caliber II 50° 180mm Trucks

Known for their precision and durability, Caliber II trucks are perfect for riders who want a stable and responsive ride. These trucks are designed for aggressive downhill riding and provide excellent control at high speeds. With their high-quality construction, you can count on them to withstand heavy use.

Why We Picked It: Caliber II trucks offer precise turning and superior stability, making them an excellent choice for riders who prioritize downhill speed and control without compromising on durability.

3. Randal RII 180mm Trucks

Randal RII trucks are a popular choice for riders who prefer versatility and stability in their trucks. Known for their durable build, these trucks provide smooth, predictable turns, which are perfect for both cruising and carving. The 42° baseplate gives riders a relaxed and stable ride while maintaining responsiveness.

Why We Picked It: The Randal RII trucks are perfect for all-around riding, offering a balanced combination of stability and maneuverability, ideal for beginners and intermediate riders alike.

What tools do I need to mount longboard trucks?

To mount your longboard trucks properly, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the installation smooth and easy. Here’s a list of tools you’ll need and why each one is necessary:

Socket Wrench: A socket wrench is essential for tightening the bolts that hold the trucks to the deck. Most longboard hardware uses standard 1/2-inch or 3/8-inch nuts, so ensure you have a compatible socket. Using a socket wrench ensures the bolts are tightened to the correct torque, providing a secure fit.
Truck Mounting Hardware: Truck mounting hardware consists of 8 bolts, 8 nuts, and 8 washers (sometimes with an extra set for added strength). These are used to attach the trucks to the longboard deck. Ensure the hardware is the correct length for your board’s deck thickness. If your board has a thicker or thinner deck, you may need to buy longer or shorter bolts.
Allen Wrench (or Hex Key): For trucks that require Allen screws for attaching the baseplate, you’ll need the appropriate-sized Allen wrench. Some trucks have Allen bolts in the kingpin area, and a standard hex key set will help you tighten them.
Torque Wrench (optional but recommended): A torque wrench allows you to tighten the bolts with consistent force, ensuring you don’t overtighten and damage the deck or the trucks. This tool is especially useful for beginners, as it can prevent over-torquing that might affect the trucks’ performance.
Lubricant: A small amount of lubricant (such as WD-40 or silicone-based lubricant) can be helpful for greasing the bushings in your trucks. It will ensure smoother turns and reduce wear on the parts. Just be sure not to use too much, as excess lubrication can attract dirt.
Ruler or Measuring Tape: A ruler or measuring tape is useful if you want to make sure the trucks are aligned symmetrically on the deck. This is more important for aesthetic reasons, but keeping the trucks centered can also affect the ride’s balance and performance.
Deck Vise or Clamp (optional): A deck vise or clamp isn’t strictly necessary, but it can be helpful to stabilize your board while you work. Clamping the deck down prevents it from moving around as you tighten the hardware, making the process easier and more precise.

Having these tools on hand will ensure your longboard trucks are mounted securely and correctly. While you can mount the trucks without all of these tools, using them will help avoid mistakes that could affect the overall ride of your longboard.

How tight should I mount my longboard trucks?

Getting the tightness of your longboard trucks just right is crucial for achieving the desired performance. If your trucks are too tight, you risk losing maneuverability and responsiveness, which can make the board feel stiff and difficult to turn. On the other hand, if your trucks are too loose, the board can feel unstable, especially at higher speeds. Here’s a guide to help you figure out how tight to mount your longboard trucks:

Initial Tightness Adjustment: Start by mounting your trucks loosely. When attaching the trucks to the deck, tighten the mounting hardware just enough so that the trucks stay in place but can still pivot slightly. The next step is adjusting the kingpin bolts, which control the tightness of the bushings and the truck’s responsiveness.
Adjusting the Kingpin: For most longboards, the kingpin (the bolt that holds the trucks’ baseplate and hanger together) controls how tight or loose the trucks feel. A good rule of thumb is to tighten the kingpin just enough so that the truck feels firm but still allows the bushings to compress.
- Loose Trucks: If you prefer a loose and turn-heavy ride (ideal for carving or freeriding), loosen the kingpin bolts. This allows the bushings to compress more easily, making the trucks more responsive. You’ll notice your board will turn more easily and feel smoother, but be careful, as it might feel unstable at high speeds.
- Tight Trucks: For more stability at higher speeds or when riding downhill, tighten the kingpin bolts. This will create more resistance when turning, making the trucks stiffer and providing greater stability. Keep in mind that overly tight trucks can make carving difficult, so don’t go too far with this adjustment.
Testing the Tightness: After making your adjustments, test the trucks by gently pushing off and turning. The trucks should respond smoothly and feel controlled. If the board wobbles or feels sluggish, you might need to adjust the tightness. For a good balance, the trucks should allow for controlled carving but should not feel “too floppy.”
Fine-Tuning the Tightness: It’s important to fine-tune the tightness based on your riding style and preference. Many longboarders prefer a setup where the front truck is slightly looser than the back truck to enhance turning ability while maintaining control on the rear.
Bushings Play a Role: The type and hardness of the bushings in your trucks also affect the overall tightness. Softer bushings are more flexible, providing a looser, more fluid ride. Harder bushings offer more resistance, leading to a stiffer feel. If you’re looking for more control at high speeds, consider upgrading to harder bushings.

How do I know if my longboard trucks are properly aligned?

Proper alignment of your longboard trucks is essential for achieving a smooth and stable ride. Misaligned trucks can cause uneven wear on the wheels, difficulty turning, and an overall unpleasant riding experience. Here’s how to ensure your trucks are properly aligned:

Check the Symmetry: When mounting your trucks, make sure they are evenly placed on the deck. The trucks should be centered along the width of the board, so that both sides of the truck align symmetrically with the deck. Use a ruler or measuring tape to ensure the trucks are placed the same distance from both sides of the deck. This simple step can prevent the board from feeling off-balance and ensures that the weight distribution is even.
Truck Placement: The front and rear trucks should also be aligned properly along the length of the board. The center of the baseplate should be aligned with the center of the deck, and the kingpin should be positioned perpendicular to the edge of the board. This alignment ensures that the trucks turn smoothly and offer a balanced ride.
Baseplate Angle: Check that the angle of the baseplate (the part of the truck that attaches to the deck) is consistent on both trucks. The baseplate angle affects how responsive the truck will be when turning. For example, a 50° baseplate will be more responsive than a 45° baseplate, and these angles should match on both front and rear trucks.
Use a Square Tool: For precision, you can use a carpenter’s square or a right-angle tool to check if the truck’s hanger is perpendicular to the baseplate. This ensures that the kingpin is properly aligned and won’t cause unnecessary wobble or unbalanced turning.
Visual Inspection: Once the trucks are mounted, stand back and visually inspect the alignment. The trucks should sit parallel to each other, without tilting or twisting. If you notice that one truck appears to be angled differently from the other, this could indicate that the baseplate isn’t seated properly on the deck, and you may need to loosen the mounting bolts and re-align the truck.
Test the Ride: After making sure the trucks are aligned, take your longboard out for a test ride. Pay attention to how the board handles while turning. If you feel that the board turns unevenly or if one side feels stiffer than the other, this might indicate an issue with the truck alignment. You may need to adjust the position or check the truck’s hardware for any loose bolts.

What is the difference between reverse kingpin trucks and traditional kingpin trucks?

When it comes to longboard trucks, understanding the difference between reverse kingpin (RKP) and traditional kingpin (TKP) trucks can help you make an informed decision based on your riding style. Here’s a breakdown of both types:

Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP)

Reverse kingpin trucks are the most commonly used trucks for longboarding. The kingpin is mounted on the opposite side of the hanger, which gives the truck its “reverse” design. These trucks are known for their ability to offer smooth turns and increased stability. Here are the main characteristics of reverse kingpin trucks:

More Responsive Turns: RKP trucks are generally more responsive when turning. The reverse mounting of the kingpin allows for a more fluid, carve-friendly ride, which makes them ideal for cruising, carving, and downhill riding.
Stability at High Speeds: Reverse kingpin trucks provide greater stability, especially when riding at higher speeds. This makes them a popular choice for downhill racing or high-speed cruising, as the design helps to prevent wobbling and improves control.
Widely Used for Longboarding: Most longboarders prefer RKP trucks because of their versatility. They work well for a wide variety of riding styles, including carving, freeriding, and downhill. They also offer more adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup for different terrains and preferences.
Larger Turning Radius: While RKP trucks are great for carving, they tend to have a larger turning radius compared to TKP trucks, which can make them less ideal for tight turns or technical maneuvers.

Traditional Kingpin Trucks (TKP)

Traditional kingpin trucks are often used for skateboarding, but some longboarders still prefer them for specific applications, especially for those who enjoy technical tricks and street skating. In TKP trucks, the kingpin is positioned on the same side as the hanger, which leads to a different riding experience:

Tighter Turns: TKP trucks are designed for more aggressive and tight turns, making them ideal for technical maneuvers like slalom, street skating, or tricks where quick and precise turning is required.
Stability for Tricks: While they may not be as stable at high speeds as reverse kingpin trucks, TKP trucks are great for park riding or technical freestyle because they allow for quicker pivoting and sharper turns.
Less Stability at High Speeds: Since the kingpin is positioned differently, TKP trucks are generally less stable when riding downhill or at higher speeds. This design can cause more wobble, making them less suitable for downhill riding or situations that require high-speed stability.
Smaller Turning Radius: One of the key advantages of TKP trucks is their ability to make tight, quick turns, which is why they are often preferred by those who enjoy technical tricks or street skating.

How do I maintain my longboard trucks?

Maintaining your longboard trucks is essential for ensuring that they perform optimally and last for a long time. Well-maintained trucks provide a smoother, safer ride and can help you avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping your trucks in top condition:

1. Check the Tightness Regularly

After you’ve mounted your trucks, it’s important to periodically check the tightness of the bolts and kingpin. Over time, vibrations and heavy use can cause the bolts to loosen, which can affect the performance and stability of your ride. Check the following regularly:

Mounting Bolts: Ensure the 8 mounting bolts are securely tightened so that the trucks stay fixed to the deck.
Kingpin Bolts: Regularly check the tightness of the kingpin bolts, as these control the responsiveness of your trucks. Tighten or loosen as necessary based on your riding preference.

Using a torque wrench is recommended to ensure that the bolts are tightened to the appropriate torque specifications. This will avoid overtightening, which can damage the hardware or the deck.

2. Lubricate the Bushings and Kingpin

The bushings in your trucks (the rubber pieces that help with turning) will eventually wear out or dry up. When this happens, your truck’s performance can suffer. Regularly lubricating the bushings will extend their life and keep them performing smoothly. A small amount of lubricant, such as silicone spray or a specialized bushing oil, can help:

Apply Lubricant Sparingly: Avoid using too much lubricant, as it can attract dust and dirt, which could result in more wear and tear on your trucks.
Check for Wear and Tear: Over time, the bushings may lose their elasticity or become deformed. If they appear cracked, flat, or worn down, it’s time to replace them.

3. Clean Your Trucks Regularly

Dirt, dust, and grime can accumulate in your trucks over time, leading to decreased performance. Cleaning your trucks will help maintain their functionality. Here’s how to clean them:

Disassemble and Clean: Remove the trucks from the deck and disassemble them. Clean the bushings, kingpins, and hanger with a cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Use Water and Soap: Soak the parts in warm water with a mild soap solution. Make sure to dry the parts thoroughly afterward to prevent rust.
Check for Rust: Rust can form on the trucks if they are exposed to moisture. Make sure to check for any signs of rust, especially on the kingpin or bolts. If you notice any rust, clean it off with a wire brush and apply a rust inhibitor.

4. Inspect the Trucks for Damage

Trucks can experience wear and tear over time, especially if you ride aggressively or in harsh conditions. Look out for the following:

Cracks or Bent Metal: If the hanger or baseplate shows signs of bending or cracking, it’s time to replace the truck. Even small imperfections can compromise the strength of the truck, so it’s better to replace them sooner rather than later.
Loose or Worn Kingpins: If the kingpin becomes too loose or starts to bend, it will affect the responsiveness and stability of the truck. Tighten or replace it as needed.

Performing these regular inspections will ensure that you catch any potential issues before they affect your ride.

5. Replace Worn-Out Bushings and Hardware

Bushings are the parts of your trucks that undergo the most stress, especially when turning. Over time, they can wear down or flatten out, which will affect how your truck turns and feels. If the bushings are too worn, replace them with new ones that suit your riding style. Also, check the mounting hardware regularly. If bolts or nuts are stripped or damaged, replace them to avoid any loose components.

6. Store Your Longboard Properly

Proper storage of your longboard can help extend the life of your trucks. Store your board in a dry place to avoid rust and corrosion. If you live in a humid area, consider using silica gel packs or rust inhibitors to prevent moisture buildup. Avoid leaving your board exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the bushings to dry out and become brittle.

What size trucks should I use for my longboard?

Choosing the right truck size for your longboard is crucial for optimal performance, stability, and ride comfort. The size of the trucks determines how your board handles, and it should match the width of your deck. Here’s how to choose the perfect truck size based on your longboard’s dimensions and your riding style:

1. Truck Width and Deck Width

The general rule of thumb when selecting truck size is that the width of the trucks should closely match the width of your longboard deck. If your trucks are too wide or too narrow for your deck, it can cause instability and affect your ability to turn and carve.

Standard Truck Sizing: Longboard trucks are typically measured by the width of the hanger (the part of the truck that holds the wheels), not the overall width of the baseplate. Most longboard trucks are available in sizes ranging from 140mm to 220mm.
- Narrow Trucks (140mm – 150mm): These are ideal for narrower decks, typically those between 7.5” and 8.25” wide. Narrow trucks provide quick turning and responsiveness, making them a good choice for technical tricks or street skating.
- Medium Trucks (150mm – 180mm): These are the most common size for standard longboards and are suitable for decks ranging from 8.5” to 9.5” wide. Medium trucks offer a balance of stability and maneuverability, making them a good all-around option for cruising, carving, and downhill riding.
- Wide Trucks (180mm – 220mm): These are perfect for wider decks, usually those over 9.5” wide. Wide trucks are designed to provide more stability, especially at higher speeds or during downhill rides. They’re ideal for freeride longboards or downhill racing, where you need extra control and precision.

2. Choosing Based on Riding Style

The type of longboarding you plan to do also plays a role in determining the ideal truck size:

Cruising and Carving: For a smooth, responsive ride when cruising around town or carving, medium trucks are usually the best choice. They provide the right balance between stability and turning ability.
Downhill and Freeride: If you plan to ride downhill or perform freeride tricks, wider trucks are preferable. They provide the necessary stability at high speeds, reducing the risk of wobbles or uncontrollable turns.
Freestyle and Technical Tricks: For freestyle longboarding or technical tricks, narrower trucks can be beneficial. They allow for quicker, sharper turns, making them ideal for performing tricks and maneuvers on flat ground or in the skatepark.

3. Factors to Consider:

When choosing the right truck size, consider the following additional factors:

Wheel Size: Larger wheels require wider trucks to ensure proper clearance. If you’re using wheels that are larger than 54mm, you may need to opt for wider trucks (typically 180mm or more).
Deck Shape and Design: Some longboard decks have a specific shape, such as a concave or a directional deck, which can affect how your trucks interact with the board. Ensure your trucks match the deck’s shape to maintain stability and comfort.
Kingpin Angle: The kingpin angle affects the responsiveness of the truck. Steeper angles (e.g., 50°) make the truck more responsive and are typically used for carving and downhill, while more moderate angles (e.g., 45°) provide more stability.

4. Truck Width to Deck Ratio

To get the ideal truck size, compare the width of the deck with the truck size. A general recommendation is that your truck should be roughly the same width as your deck or slightly narrower. This ensures that your wheels align properly with the deck, which is crucial for maintaining proper ride dynamics.

For decks 7.5” to 8.25” wide: Choose 140mm to 150mm trucks.
For decks 8.5” to 9.5” wide: Choose 150mm to 180mm trucks.
For decks 9.5” and wider: Choose 180mm to 220mm trucks.

5. Test and Adjust

If you’re unsure about the size, don’t be afraid to experiment. Most riders start with medium trucks and adjust based on their needs and preferences. You can always swap out different truck sizes until you find the one that best suits your riding style.

Can I use skateboarding trucks on my longboard?

It’s common for longboarders, especially beginners, to wonder if skateboarding trucks can be used on their longboards. While there are similarities between the two, there are important differences that affect performance and riding experience. Here’s a detailed look at the factors to consider when deciding whether to use skateboarding trucks on your longboard:

1. Differences Between Skateboarding Trucks and Longboarding Trucks

The primary distinction between skateboarding trucks and longboarding trucks lies in their design and intended use. Both types of trucks serve similar functions, but the specifics of their construction make them better suited for different kinds of boards and riding styles.

Skateboard Trucks: Skateboard trucks are typically narrower, designed to offer quick responsiveness and tight turning. They are commonly used on street and park skateboards and are often paired with smaller wheels, usually between 50mm and 54mm.
Longboard Trucks: Longboard trucks, on the other hand, are usually wider and designed to provide more stability and smoother turning at higher speeds. They are typically paired with larger wheels, ranging from 55mm to 60mm or more, to accommodate the different needs of longboard riding, such as cruising, carving, or downhill riding.

2. Impact of Using Skateboarding Trucks on a Longboard

While you technically can use skateboarding trucks on your longboard, doing so may not offer the best performance for longboarding purposes. Here are a few points to consider:

Stability: Longboard trucks are wider and have a lower center of gravity, which contributes to greater stability, especially at higher speeds. Skateboard trucks, being narrower, will create a less stable ride on a longboard, particularly for downhill or freeride riding.
Turning Radius: Skateboarding trucks have a shorter turning radius, making them ideal for sharp, technical maneuvers or tricks. However, on a longboard, this can make carving or cruising less smooth. You may experience tighter turns than you want, making the ride feel a bit jerky.
Compatibility with Larger Wheels: Skateboarding trucks are not designed to accommodate larger wheels typically used on longboards. If you try to use skateboard trucks with bigger wheels, you could face wheelbite issues, where the wheels touch the deck during turns, causing a sudden, uncontrolled stop.

3. Why Use Skateboarding Trucks on a Longboard?

In some cases, riders may prefer to use skateboarding trucks on their longboard for specific reasons:

For Technical Tricks: If you’re doing technical maneuvers or tricks that require quick turns and pivoting, skateboard trucks might be suitable, as they allow for tighter turns and a more responsive feel.
Cost-Effectiveness: If you already have a set of skateboard trucks and don’t want to buy new longboard trucks, you might decide to use them temporarily. This can be a practical solution, especially for beginners or those experimenting with different setups.
Custom Builds: Some longboarders like to experiment with their setups, mixing and matching parts from different boards to create a custom riding experience. In these cases, skateboarding trucks could be used if you prefer a ride that’s responsive and technical.

4. What Happens if You Use Skateboard Trucks?

While you can use skateboard trucks on a longboard, it may not give you the performance you expect from a proper longboard setup. Here are some potential outcomes:

Less Stability at High Speeds: Due to the narrower width and steeper angles of skateboard trucks, you may notice instability at high speeds. This could be dangerous if you plan to ride downhill or at higher velocities.
Difficulty in Carving: Carving will be less smooth since skateboarding trucks are designed for quick, tight turns, which might not be ideal for longboard riders who prefer wide, smooth arcs.
Wheelbite Issues: As mentioned earlier, larger longboard wheels might touch the deck when using skateboard trucks. This can disrupt your ride and cause accidents if you’re not careful.

5. When Should You Stick with Longboard Trucks?

If you’re serious about longboarding and want the best performance, it’s recommended to stick with longboard trucks for the following reasons:

Better Stability: Longboard trucks are wider, providing greater stability, especially at high speeds and during downhill runs.
Smooth Carving: The design of longboard trucks helps in achieving smooth, flowing turns, which is essential for carving and cruising.
Designed for Larger Wheels: Longboard trucks are built to accommodate larger wheels, preventing wheelbite and allowing for a more controlled, comfortable ride.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mounting your longboard trucks is a crucial aspect of setting up your longboard for an enjoyable and safe ride. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, understanding the different components and how to properly install and maintain your trucks will significantly enhance your riding experience.

From selecting the right truck size based on your deck width and riding style, to regularly maintaining and tightening your trucks, these steps will ensure your setup is reliable and performs well for years to come.

Remember, the right trucks not only influence the stability and responsiveness of your ride but also affect your comfort and safety. It’s important to choose trucks that align with the type of longboarding you plan to do, whether it’s cruising, carving, downhill, or technical tricks.