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General

kingpin

What does kingpin mean?

The large central bolt of a skateboard truck that holds the hanger and bushings in place and can be tightened or loosened to adjust turning.

"He backed off the kingpin for looser trucks."

Origin

General term 'kingpin' for a central holding bolt, applied to truck hardware.

Frequently asked questions

What does the kingpin do on a skateboard?
It's the large central bolt that holds the truck's hanger and bushings together, and tightening or loosening it adjusts how easily the board turns.
How do you adjust your trucks with the kingpin?
Loosen the kingpin nut for looser, easier-turning trucks or tighten it for a stiffer, more stable feel.
Where does the term kingpin come from?
It's borrowed from general mechanical use, where a kingpin is the main central bolt that holds an assembly together.
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.