Element Skateboard Trucks Loose

Element skateboard trucks loose is one of the most common complaints from riders breaking in a new complete. You step on your board, carve once, and feel a side-to-side wobble that just doesn't feel right. Before you panic or blame the brand, know that a loose truck feel usually traces back to one of three specific components.

Fixing it is a quick process once you know where to look.

Per ASTM F2264 safety specifications, trucks should be tight enough to prevent wheel bite but loose enough for controlled turning. Our research into Element's complete setups confirms their stock bushings are typically a 90A durometer. This hardness works for average-weight riders but often breaks in and softens within the first few sessions, changing the truck's feel entirely.

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Quick Answer: It Depends on What "Loose" Actually Means

Element skateboard trucks feel loose for three main reasons. The kingpin nut may be too loose. The mounting bolts connecting the baseplate to the deck might be loose.

The axle nuts holding the wheels could be loose. Each problem has a different fix. The most common issue is a kingpin nut that needs tightening.

Always check all hardware before riding.

Step 1: Diagnose the Source of Loose Trucks

First, pinpoint exactly which part is loose. This isn't a guesswork step. It's a quick diagnostic using your hands and eyes.

The wobble you feel comes from a specific point of failure. Identifying it correctly saves you from tightening the wrong nut.

Is It the Kingpin Nut, Mounting Bolts, or Axle Nuts?

Perform this simple three-point check. Grab the hanger (the main T-shaped part) and try to wiggle it side-to-side against the baseplate. If it moves, your kingpin nut is too loose.

Next, grab the entire truck and try to wiggle it where it meets the deck. Any movement means your mounting bolts are loose. Finally, spin each wheel.

If a wheel rocks on its axle, the axle nut needs tightening.

The mounting bolts below are what attach the baseplate to the deck. They loosen over time and cause a dangerous whole-truck wobble.

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The Wiggle Test and Visual Checks

Perform these tests on a stable surface, deck-side down. A visual check is also telling. Look for a visible gap between the top bushing and the washer, or between the baseplate and the deck.

Aggregate reviews indicate Element's stock hardware is standard quality. Looseness here often comes from the initial break-in period, not defective parts.

If you're new to checking gear, our guide on routine skateboard upkeep covers these basics in detail.

Step 2: Set the Kingpin Tension the Right Way

Once you've confirmed the kingpin nut is the culprit, adjusting it is straightforward. This single nut controls the truck's turning resistance. Manufacturer specifications indicate you should tighten it in small, deliberate increments.

The goal is a firm, responsive turn, not a stiff, immovable block.

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How Tight Should Your Trucks Feel?

The ideal tension depends on your weight and style. A good rule is to tighten until the bushings are compressed flat but not bulging excessively. Stand on the board and try to turn.

You should feel resistance but still be able to lean and carve. For a commuter or cruiser setup, you might prefer them slightly looser for sharper turns. For trick riding at a park, tighter is usually more stable for landings.

How to Fix Over-Compressed Bushings

If you've already cranked the nut too tight, your bushings may be permanently deformed. This is a common mistake. Loosen the kingpin nut completely and remove the top washer and bushing.

If the bushing has a deep groove or looks flat on one side, it's over-compressed. You can try to let it rest and reform, but replacement is often the best solution. A board chosen for beginners will often have components that need this exact kind of initial tuning.

Step 3: Customize the Bushings for Your Riding Style

This is where you move from fixing a problem to optimizing your ride. The stock 90A bushings in Element completes are a middle-ground durometer. They're fine for many, but swapping them is the easiest way to transform your truck's feel.

It's a cheap upgrade that makes a huge difference.

Soft Bushings vs. Hard Bushings

Bushings are rated by durometer (hardness) on the A-scale. Softer bushings (78A-87A) turn easier and are great for lighter riders or cruiser carving. Harder bushings (91A-100A) offer more stability for heavier riders, high-speed downhilling, or aggressive trick skating.

The shape also matters. Conical bushings allow more turn, while barrel bushings provide more stability.

When to Replace Stock Element Bushings

Replace your bushings if they are visibly cracked, flattened, or feel "mushy" with no rebound. Upgrading is also smart if you weigh significantly more or less than the average teen. As of 2026, aftermarket bushings from brands like Bones or Riptide are widely available.

This simple swap can make a generic complete feel like a custom setup.

Common Mistakes That Make Element Trucks Feel Worse

Avoid these frequent errors. They often create new problems or mask the real issue.

• Over-tightening the kingpin nut. This crushes the bushings, kills your turning, and can crack the urethane. Tighten just enough to remove slop.
• Ignoring the mounting bolts. A loose baseplate creates an unstable, dangerous wobble. Always check the four bolts on each truck.
• Confusing axle nut tightness with truck tightness. A loose axle nut causes wheel wobble, not truck lean. Spin the wheel to check.
• Forcing a fix without the right tools. Use a proper skate tool. Pliers can strip nuts and damage hardware.
• Skipping the post-adjustment test ride. Tighten, then ride around the block. Readjust based on feel, not just on the bench.

For more on keeping your whole board in top shape, consider our advice on longboard maintenance for stability-focused riding.

Quick Decision Guide: Your Situation, Your Fix

Use this table to match a symptom with the exact fix. It covers every issue we've discussed.

Still not sure? Start with the mounting bolts. They cause the most dangerous kind of loose feel.

Only adjust the kingpin when the hanger actually moves.

After any fix, do a short test ride. Push at moderate speed and shift weight between toes and heels. Listen for clicks or rattles.

If the board still feels unstable, re-check the hardware. The goal is a predictable turn with zero slop.

Sharp, sudden turns from a too-loose setup cause most beginner falls. Wearing quality knee protection while you tune is a smart move. Also, keep a skate tool with you for the first few sessions.

The break-in period means you'll re-tighten often.

If new wobbles appear after fixing the trucks, check your wheels. Worn or out-of-round wheels mimic a loose ride. Learning to spot deteriorating wheels helps keep things smooth.

For basic safety, follow the free guidelines on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

FAQ: Element Truck Looseness Questions

Which way do I turn the kingpin nut to tighten?

Turn it clockwise while looking down at the nut. A standard skate tool gives plenty of leverage. Tighten in tiny increments and test.

Going clockwise always compresses the bushings.

How much do replacement bushings cost?

Quality urethane bushings cost about $8 to $15 for a full set of eight. That covers both trucks. New trucks cost $50 or more.

Swapping bushings is the cheapest way to fix a long-standing loose feel.

Can I pair a harder bottom bushing with a softer top one?

Yes. Many riders tune this way. A harder bottom bushing holds the hanger stable.

A softer top bushing lets the board respond quickly to lean. Test a few combos until the turn feels predictable.

How long should Element stock bushings last?

With regular skating, expect 3 to 6 months before they compress noticeably. Heavier riders may need replacements sooner. If a bushing shows cracks or flat spots, swap it out before your next session.