Tail Guard Skateboard: Protection & Install Guide

• Skateboard decks experience significant wear and tear, particularly at the tail, making effective protection paramount for longevity. The *tail guard skateboard*, a protective accessory, directly addresses this issue by shielding the tail from abrasion during common maneuvers such as *ollies* and *slides*. *Skate shops* commonly stock various tail guard models, offering skateboarders choices based on material and mounting style. Proper *installation*, often achieved using basic tools like a screwdriver, ensures the tail guard remains securely affixed, thus preserving the skateboard’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, and increasing its lifespan.

Tail Guard Skateboard: Protection & Install Guide – A Comprehensive Overview

A tail guard skateboard, often overlooked, is a critical component for extending the lifespan of your deck and enhancing your overall riding experience. This guide will provide an in-depth understanding of tail guards, their importance, different types available, and a step-by-step installation process.

Why You Need a Tail Guard Skateboard

The tail of your skateboard, particularly when performing tricks like ollies, kickflips, and powerslides, is constantly subjected to abrasion and impact. Without protection, the wood of the deck will quickly wear down, leading to:

• Delamination: The layers of wood separating, weakening the deck’s structural integrity.
• Chipping: Splintering and breaking of the tail, making it difficult to perform tricks consistently.
• Reduced Pop: A worn tail affects the board’s ability to “pop” effectively, hindering trick performance.
• Shorter Deck Lifespan: Ultimately, a damaged tail leads to needing a new board sooner.

Investing in a tail guard is a cost-effective solution to mitigate these issues, preserving your skateboard and saving money in the long run.

Types of Tail Guards

Tail guards come in various materials and designs, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the different types will help you choose the best option for your riding style and preferences:

1. Plastic Tail Guards: These are typically the most affordable and common type.
   • Pros: Durable, lightweight, impact-resistant, readily available in different colors.
   • Cons: Can wear down over time, may require screws for secure mounting.
2. Metal Tail Guards: Offer superior durability and longevity.
   • Pros: Extremely strong, long-lasting, provide excellent protection against abrasion.
   • Cons: Can be heavier than plastic, may be more expensive, can damage surfaces during slides.
3. Rubber Tail Guards: Offer a balance of protection and flexibility.
   • Pros: Absorb impact well, provide good grip, protect against chipping.
   • Cons: May not be as durable as plastic or metal, can wear down more quickly.
4. Integrated Tail Guards (Built-in): Some modern skateboard decks come with built-in tail protection, often made of reinforced plastic or composite materials.
   • Pros: Seamless integration, maximum durability, no installation needed.
   • Cons: Only available on specific decks, cannot be added to existing skateboards.

Choosing the Right Tail Guard

Consider these factors when selecting a tail guard:

• Riding Style: For aggressive street skating, a metal or durable plastic guard is recommended. For cruising or casual riding, a rubber or plastic guard may suffice.
• Deck Size: Ensure the tail guard is appropriately sized for your skateboard deck width.
• Mounting Method: Tail guards typically use screws or adhesive for attachment. Screw-mounted guards offer a more secure fit, while adhesive guards are easier to install.
• Budget: Tail guard prices vary depending on the material and brand.

Tail Guard Skateboard: Step-by-Step Installation Guide

The installation process varies slightly depending on the type of tail guard. This guide outlines the general steps for installing a screw-mounted or adhesive tail guard.

Preparing for Installation:

1. Gather Your Tools: You will need:

   • Your chosen tail guard skateboard protector
   • A screwdriver (appropriate size for the screws included with the tail guard) or strong adhesive (follow manufacturer’s instructions)
   • A drill (optional, for pre-drilling screw holes)
   • Measuring tape or ruler
   • Pencil or marker
   • Clean cloth
   • Rubbing alcohol

2. Clean the Tail: Thoroughly clean the tail of your skateboard with rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth to remove any dirt, grime, or wax. This will ensure proper adhesion or a clean surface for screw placement.

Installing a Screw-Mounted Tail Guard:

1. Position the Tail Guard: Center the tail guard on the tail of your skateboard. Use a measuring tape or ruler to ensure it’s evenly positioned.
2. Mark the Screw Holes: Use a pencil or marker to mark the locations of the screw holes on the deck.
3. Pre-Drill (Optional): Carefully pre-drill pilot holes at the marked locations. This will make it easier to insert the screws and prevent the wood from splitting. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the diameter of the screws.
4. Attach the Tail Guard: Align the tail guard with the marked holes and use a screwdriver to securely fasten the screws. Do not overtighten the screws, as this can damage the deck.

Installing an Adhesive Tail Guard:

1. Position the Tail Guard: As with the screw-mounted guard, center the tail guard on the tail of your skateboard and ensure even positioning.
2. Apply Adhesive: Apply a thin, even layer of strong adhesive to the back of the tail guard or to the tail of the skateboard, following the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Attach the Tail Guard: Carefully align the tail guard with the tail of the skateboard and press firmly into place.
4. Secure and Cure: Use clamps or heavy objects to hold the tail guard in place while the adhesive cures. Allow the adhesive to cure completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions before riding your skateboard. This is a crucial step to ensure the adhesive is correctly setup.

The following table summarises the key steps:

Installation Type	Step 1	Step 2	Step 3	Step 4
Screw-Mounted	Position Tail Guard	Mark Screw Holes	Pre-Drill (Optional)	Attach with Screws
Adhesive	Position Tail Guard	Apply Adhesive	Attach Tail Guard	Secure and Cure

Alright, that’s everything you need to know about keeping your deck pristine with a tail guard skateboard protector! Now get out there, shred confidently, and don’t worry so much about those accidental scrapes. Happy skating!