How to Change Inline Skate Wheels
When your skates aren't working correctly or don't go as fast as they have been, check the wheels. If the inside of a wheel appears worn, it needs to be changed or at least rotated. Wear and tear on inline skate wheels is caused by multiple things including skating downhill, your weight and the terrain they are used on.
If you are going to rotate your inline skate wheels, swap the first and third wheels with each other and do the same with the second and fourth wheels. When swapping wheels or using used wheels, make sure you put the least worn side to the inside.
- Check if the bearings are threaded. If they are, you need to contact the manufacturer for instructions since these are more complicated.
- Check that you have the correct replacement wheels on hand. Wheels that are too large will rub each other.
- Use an Allen wrench to unscrew the axle bolts from one of the front wheels. Remove the front axle bolt that was just unscrewed. Remove the front wheel from the frame, usually by pulling it
- Slip the spacer and bearings out together when you remove them from the wheel. Put the spacer and bearings inside the replacement wheel. Put the replacement wheel on the wheel frame.
- Replace the axle, using the Allen wrench to tighten it. If aluminum spacers are being used, the axle is to be tightened as much as possible. If plastic spacers are being used, the axle is to be tightened almost as much as possible and then backed off slightly.
- Test the wheel by spinning it to see how easily it goes. A wobbly wheel needs to be tightened more. A wheel that does not easily spin, needs to be slightly loosened.
- Repeat this process for the other wheels.