Be sure to store all nuts and washers in a safe place, such as a plastic bag or small container.
If you have a skateboard, you can use the axle to poke out the bearing casing. Hold the wheel against the axle so the side that would normally face outward faces in and touches the axle. Apply gentle pressure to pop out the bearing casing.
Alternatively, you might have a metal seal secured by a C-clip. Use a utility knife to pry out the C-clip, then tap the metal seal out. [3] X Research source You’ll be able to see the outline of the C-clip if your metal seal is removable. If the seal is pressed with no visible seam or outline, the seal is not removable and you will not be able to access the ball bearings.
You can cut a ballpoint pen casing into quarter inch (0. 6 cm) wide cylinders to create spacers to place between the bearings. [5] X Research source If you want to purchase a skate ball bearing cleaning kit, you can find one online or at a skate shop.
Stacking the bearing casings instead of free washing them in a container will help prevent casings from scratching each other. It’ll also help keep the balls from falling out of the casings. [7] X Research source
Each cleaner has pros and cons. A citrus cleaner is the safest choice, but might leave a residue on the casings. Isopropyl alcohol and acetone are stronger and won’t leave residue, but are skin irritants and emit hazardous fumes. Be sure to wear gloves if you choose 90% pure isopropyl alcohol or a solvent cleaner. Don’t use WD-40 or oil to clean ball bearings or bearing casings. These will just cause buildup without actually removing any debris.
Use either a lubricant made for skate ball bearings, sewing machine lubricant, or lubricant made for electronic devices. These products typically come with a needle applicator. [12] X Research source
You can use a skateboard axle to pop the bearing casing back into place, but you might risk damaging the casing. Using a skate tool is the preferred method. [14] X Research source
For the rear wheel, you’ll also need to pull out the freehub body as well. Simply pull it out of the center of the wheel. [16] X Research source
Be sure to store the seals and the other parts you removed in a safe place to avoid losing them.
Once you’ve cleaned and repacked one wheel, repeat the process on the other.
For the rear wheel, you’ll have to remove the cassette in order to access the cup-and-cone. You’ll need a cassette removal tool, which you can find online or at a bike shop, to fit into the cassette and loosen the locking nut. Set the lug nuts and any washers or spacers aside in proper order to make reassembly easier.
If you use a blade, spray a little grease onto it so the balls will stick to it. That’ll make it easier to pull them out from their seat. Keep the ball bearings separate so you know which side is which.
Wear gloves when using a degreaser.
If necessary, use your finger to work grease all around the bearing seat.
Pack even more grease into the bearing seat after you slide the ball bearings back into place. Once you’ve inserted the bearings one one side of the hub, repeat the process on the other side. [27] X Research source
For the rear wheel, place the cassette back onto the hub and tighten its locking nut using the cassette tool.
