Any skateboarder is going to take extra measures and precautions to preserve his board and keep it in top shape. Among the key elements that make a skateboard move the way it does are the bushings, the small rubber pieces attached to the trucks. Bushings play a large role in how the board turns and handles different tricks. If the bushings are too stiff, the board will not turn as well, the bushings can break, and then your board is virtually unrideable. Fortunately, there is an easy method for softening bushings and keeping them in good shape.
Remove the bushings, using either a skate tool or a wrench. Unscrew the bolt holding the bushings in place and slide them right off.
Heat up a pot of water on the stove. Place the bushings in the pot for 10 to 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and remove the bushings while they are still hot. Do not use your hands to pull them out of the water.
Reattach the bushings on the board while they are still hot. Simply screw them back on with the skate tool or wrench and the bolt. Start skating. You should notice a difference immediately. Riding the board right after you put them on will preserve the softness and allow them to loosen up even more.
Tips
Do not place try to soften the bushings in the microwave. This will melt the rubber.