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How to Install Skateboard Deck Rails
WHAT ARE SKATEBOARD DECK RAILS?
Before we tell you how to install deck rails, let's learn a bit about what they are and where they came from. Skateboard deck rails are small plastic or metal strips that are attached to the underside of the skateboard deck, running parallel to the edge of the board. They are designed to protect the board from wear and tear that occurs from sliding and grinding on rails, ledges, and other surfaces.
The history of skateboard deck rails can be traced back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, during the rise of skateboarding culture and the development of new skateboard tricks. As skaters began to experiment with new tricks and techniques, they found that the underside of their decks were becoming damaged from constant contact with hard surfaces. In response, skateboard manufacturers began to create protective rails that could be attached to the underside of the deck, providing an additional layer of protection and prolonging the life of the board. These early deck rails were often made from plastic or metal, and were relatively simple in design, consisting of a single strip that ran parallel to the edge of the board.
Over time, skateboard deck rails have evolved to become more advanced and customizable, with a range of materials and designs now available to skaters. Some deck rails are designed to be lightweight and flexible, allowing for a greater range of motion and trick possibilities. Others are made from heavy-duty materials that provide maximum protection. Today, skateboard deck rails remain a popular accessory among skaters of all levels, providing an essential layer of protection for their boards and allowing them to push the limits of what is possible on a skateboard.
Now that you made it through your history lesson it's time we teach you to install skateboard deck rails in 4 easy steps. Follow along or jump to one of the steps below:
Step 1. Gather Your Materials
Before you start, you'll need a few tools and materials. Once you have everything together, we'll teach you how to install deck rails at home.
- Drill or Screwdriver
- Skateboard Deck Rails (Pair)
- Screws (Included With Your Rails)
Step 2. Align Rails Vertically
Begin by aligning your skateboard deck rails evenly between your wheels. If they are too far foward or backward your skateboard's wheels might rub on them when you take a sharp turn. You can measure the space between your wheels to make sure that the rails will be centered, or just eyeball it if you're in a hurry.
Step 3. Align Rails Horizontally
Next, you need to align your skateboard rails on your deck so that they will be at highest point, without being too far to the middle. This way when you're doing a boardslide you'll be sliding on the rails instead of on your deck. This point is typically about 1-1.5" from the edge of your deck.
TIP: Wider decks will require you to install the rails slightly further in toward the middle of the deck.
Step 4. Screw Rails to Deck
Lastly, you will need to secure the skateboard rails to your deck with the screws that come with the rails. Some sets of rails come with adhesive strips that help to hold the rails in place. These help to keep the rails secured to your board before the screws are in and hold the rails on your board better overall.
Begin by screwing in the first screw with a screwdriver or drill, starting with either of the screws on the ends of the rails. If you use a drill, you will need to go slow and apply a good amount of downward pressure. If you use a screwdriver, you will need to apply an even greater amount of pressure to make the screw go into the deck. The screws should sink in deeper than the face of the rail so that it does not get caught on anything while you're skating. Make sure that you keep a hand on the other end of the rail so that it doesn't spin around while you tighten the first and second screws. Work your way down the rail, tightening each screw. Once all the screws are securely in place you are good to rip some lipslides!
TIP: After skating your rails, make sure to retighten them periodically.
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Still Have Questions?
If you still need more information, rest assured that we have the resources to help you out. Our customer service team is highly knowledgeable and can answer any questions you may have about skateboard equipment. You can easily reach out to them by phone or message.
Additionally, if you are in Portland, Eugene, or Bend, feel free to visit one of our local shops and speak to one of our friendly and helpful retail employees. They'll be more than happy to assist you and provide any information or guidance you need. Don't hesitate to reach out to us - we're here to help!
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