Tools (Phillips-head screwdriver; 3/8-inch, ½-inch, and 9/16-inch wrenches, utility knife)
Deck
Griptape
Wheels
Trucks
Bearings
Hardware

Step 1 – Affix the Griptape

Lay the deck down, and hold the sheet of grip tape vertically above it. Separate the bottom part of the grip tape backing from the tape and stick that onto the top of the tail. Lay it across the board to make sure it lines up perfectly.

Pull the backing off and keep the tape off the board. Press down on the tape with your free hand, a little at a time, working your way up the board. Don’t allow air bubbles to form as you attach the griptape, as they will remain for the life of the deck.

Step 2 — Mark the Griptape

You’ll notice excess grip tape is now hanging over the edges of your new deck. This obviously must be removed, but before you start cutting, take the time to mark out the spot you’ll cut. To do this, scrape a screwdriver (or any round metal surface) around the perimeter of the rough side of the griptape, pressing firmly.

You’ll hear the telltale noise of metal on sandpaper as you go around the board. When you’ve made it completely around, you should see a white line (when viewed from the top) that outlines your deck. This is where you will trim the griptape.

Step 3 — Trim the Griptape

Using your utility knife, make a small incision directed toward you through the bottom of the exposed grip tape, and begin slicing the tape. Follow the white line you marked. Angling the blade in toward the board will keep grip tape from hanging over the edge when you’re finished.

Go all the way around until you can remove the excess freely.

Step 4 — Mount the Trucks

Use the point of your Phillips screwdriver to poke holes through the griptape that covers the bolt holes. Then, place one bolt in each hole from the top, on only one truck (front or back truck.) If you are using riser pads, insert them now. Place a truck over the bolts, with the kingpin facing the inside the way you see it in the picture.

To attach the truck, run a 3/8-inch nut onto each bolt and, using your Phillips screwdriver or Allen wrench and a 3/8-inch wrench or socket, tighten each one down. Tighten the nuts gradually, in a circular pattern, until each one is secure. The heads on the bolts are cone-shaped, and it is easy to overtighten them and pull them through the wood. Do not do this. Tighten until the top of the bolts are flush with the griptape. Repeat the process for the other truck.

Step 5 — Insert the Bearings

Turn your board on its side and remove the wheel nut from one truck axle. Place one bearing, then one spacer, then another bearing on the axle, and place a wheel on top of it. Then, using the palm of your hand, press down firmly on the wheel to seat the outermost bearing. Flip the wheel and press in the other bearing on the opposite side.

Be sure to use washers outside the bearings. Place the wheel, then a nut on the axle and, using a ½-inch wrench, tighten the axle nut until it contacts the bearing. If the wheel shakes, tighten further. If you spin the wheel and it stops suddenly, loosen the nut slightly and try again. The wheel should come to a gradual. Repeat this process for all the wheels.