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Carver C5 Surfskate Truck Breakdown & Modifications

by | Oct 7, 2024 | Maintenance, Upgrades & Customizations

The Carver C5 was designed as a hybrid between a traditional skateboard truck and a surfskate truck. It has more range of motion than traditional kingpin trucks, but less range of motion than typical surfskate trucks. It’s intended for skateboarders who want a surfskate feel, while still being able to do skateboard tricks.

It shares the same general mechanics as the Carver CX, but with some important differences.

In this article, I’ll break down how the Carver C5 is built. I’ll compare it with other truck systems. I’ll also explain ways you can upgrade and customize your Carver C5 to optimize for your style of riding and preferences.

Watch My Carver C5 Breakdown & Modifications YouTube Video

Carver C5 vs. Carver CX: Key Differences

The Carver C5 is similar to the Carver CX, but with a few differences:

  • Narrower Hanger: The C5’s hanger is narrower, giving it a more compact ride.
  • Lower Profile: The C5 sits lower to the ground for a grounded feel.
  • Hollow Parts: The C5 has hollow kingpins and axles, making it lighter.

A full set of the old CX truck system weighs 1 pound, 14 ounces. (The updated CX has hollow kingpins and axles, and is therefore lighter.) The C5 system weighs 1 pound, 9.6 ounces.

Coping Grind Challenges on the C5

Traditional skateboarders may notice that the kingpin on the Carver C5 sticks up above the hangar.

carver c5 hangar

This makes coping grinds more difficult. Without modification, the kingpin nut can shear off, causing the truck to fall apart.

I’ve had riders on the C5 who lost the nut after several grinds. To avoid this, I’ll show you how to flip the kingpin upside down on the Carver C5 for better coping performance.

How to Disassemble the Carver C5

Disassembling the Carver C5 is simple. Here’s how to take it apart:

  1. Remove the Kingpin Nut: Take off the nut to expose the washer and roadside bushing.
  2. Remove the Truck Hangar: Once the roadside bushing is off, lift the truck hangar.
  3. Access the Boardside Bushing: You’ll find the taller boardside bushing and another washer underneath the hangar.

Modifying the Carver C5

You can modify the Carver C5 by changing bushings or flipping the kingpin. I’ll explain both methods.

Changing the Bushings

The Carver C5 uses the same size bushings as Carver CX bushings, so replacements are easy. Stock C5 bushings are 89a durometer.

You can get RipTide bushings for Carver C5 in five durometers. The closest to the stock Carver C5 bushing are the yellow 90a bushings.

If you want to modify the performance performance, try these durometer options:

  • Softer Option: RipTide 87.5a pink bushings for a looser ride.
  • Harder Option: RipTide 92.5a for more stiffness.

I don’t recommend going outside this range. The C5 is already tight, and anything harder than 95a will be too restrictive. And 85a are so soft that it will be difficult to do skateboard tricks.

How to Flip the Carver C5 Kingpin for Coping Grinds

To do coping grinds without grinding your nut off, you need to flip the kingpin on your Carver C5. Here’s how:
 

  1. Remove the Baseplate: Take off the baseplate to access the kingpin.
  2. Tap Out the Kingpin: Screw the nut onto the kingpin slightly, then tap it out with a hammer.
  3. Reinstall Upside Down: Flip the kingpin upside down, then reinstall the bushings and hangar.
Ensure the nut fully engages with the kingpin threads. If it’s not tight, it may rattle off during rides. Tighten the nut until the kingpin is flush.

Now, the kingpin sits lower than the hanger, allowing for smooth coping grinds.

Additional Modifications: Pivot Cups

If your Carver C5 squeaks, either replace the pivot cups, or place a bit of marine grease or wax shavings in them.

The C5 uses the same pivot cup size as the CX. You’ll find Riptide pivot cups for Carver C5 here.

carver cx pivot cups

Conclusion

The Carver C5 is a great truck system for surfskating and skateboarding. It’s lightweight, compact, and sits lower than the CX. However, if you plan to do coping grinds, modifying the kingpin is essential.

With the right bushings and adjustments, you can optimize your C5 for your riding style. Whether you want a stiffer or looser ride, these modifications will help you get the most from your surfskate.

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