How to Install Bearings in a Scooter Wheel

This guide will teach you how to install and remove bearings in wheels with a metal core, commonly used for scooters, without any special tools.

If you've ever installed bearings in skate wheels, you know it's a straightforward process. The bearings can be pressed in with your fingers and removed with a regular skate tool, thanks to the plastic core of skate wheels. However, this is not the case for scooter wheels, which have a metal core that doesn't flex, making it harder to install the bearings.

To install or remove bearings in your scooter wheels with a metal core, you will need some tools. While special tools are available, they can be expensive. This guide will show you how to do it without special tools. However, we always recommend using high-quality professional tools to avoid damaging the bearings.

How to Install Bearings in Wheels with a Metal Core

Tools to use:

• Axle bolt with screw
• 5 extra or old bearings
• Hex key

How to install your bearings:

1. Press the bearings evenly into the core of the wheel using an axle bolt and 5 extra/old bearings. This minimizes damage to the bearings.
2. If the bearings fit very tightly, use a metal washer (minimum diameter 22 mm) on both sides of the bearings. The washers help distribute the pressure and reduce the risk of damaging the bearings.

How to Remove Bearings from Wheels with a Metal Core

Tools to use:

• Axle bolt
• Hammer

How to remove your bearings:

1. First, position the spacer (located between the bearings) in the middle, so the axle cannot pass through.
2. Use your hammer to hit the axle (placed from side to side) to press the bearings out on the other side.

Note: If you have a self-centered spacer, you risk damaging the bearings when removing them.

In our video, we use a spacer without a flange (not self-centered). This makes it easier to remove the bearing and minimizes potential damage.

If you are using a self-centered spacer, you will need to use a screwdriver to knock on the inner ring of the bearing all around it to get it out, which can easily damage the bearings.

Read our guide Buying Bearings to learn everything you need to know about bearings.