How To Guides:
REMOVING SKATE BEARINGS
HowToRemoveSkateBearings.pdf
CLEANING SKATE BEARINGS
HowToCleanSkateBearings.pdf
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SKATE MAINTENANCE
The lifespan of a skate is based on its frequency of use, and the materials from which it is made. However, preventive skate maintenance can ensure that each part of a skate functions for a long period of time, and also functions correctly. During this brief, we will identify each part of a roller skate in detail, and discuss certain problems and occurrences to look for. We will also cover proper ways to clean and/or oil parts of roller skates.
One thing to keep in mind is that roller skates are mechanical, with moving parts that cause friction and heat. These elements are a large part in basic breakdown of the skate parts. Most maintenance and repair in the skate involves the plate/truck system, and the wheels/bearings.
Wheels
Most wheels are made of urethane compounds, which demonstrate properties similar to rubber compounds. Basic wheel maintenance starts with keeping wheels clean. Simple soap, water, and an abrasive cloth is all that ’s needed to keep wheels looking like new. It is important NOT to use any alcohol based solovents to clean your wheels.
Bearings
All bearings sold today are considered precision bearings, which means they are shielded and sealed to protect the bearings from dirt build-up. Some precision bearings are filled with grease in the openings to dissipate heat with wheel movement. Precision bearings should be removed from the wheel in order to be cleaned. Then the bearings can be immersed in a solvent (alcohol) and agitated to loosen dirt build up. It is possible to remove the shields and clean the inside of the bearings, however bearing damage can easily happen when removing shields. See HowToCleanSkateBearings.pdf to learn how to do it.
Boots
A boot consists of outsoles, midsoles, and insoles, uppers (main boot body), boot linings, tongues, and tongue linings and paddings. The main function of the boot is to provide support and comfort to the foot, as well as protect the foot. Boots are made of leather or vinyl (synthetic) materials. Leather is the best material for boots because of its durability, and it also stretches to form to the foot for comfort. The process of forming this leather to the foot is “breaking in”, which is achieved through natural use of the boot.
Email us at info@RollerDerbyDepot.com or give us a call toll free at 616.874.9219 if you need any additional information.
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