Anyone ever replaced the friction plates on bionic trucks? Mine are getting thin and I'm wondering how easily they come off and how readily new ones go on. Anyone ever been through this exercise and can you tell me if its worth replacing them or not

Kent could probably give you the scoop. The instructions looked fairly straightforward. Biggest hassle seemed to be if the kingpin got a bit hornery.

The one thing I would confirm before ordering parts is that the friction plates that are currently being sold will fit your hangers. GI is kind of vague about the old and new style hangers except for the fact that the cubes aren't interchangeable.

These are the instructions for the AF plate replacement from the old truck manual (unfortunately, the last two website refreshes has played havoc with documentation).

Anti-Friction Plate Replacement
Over time your Anti-friction plates will need to be replaced. Very sandy or dirty environments will accelerate the wear on the plates. If you notice that the metal of the Truck and 1·langer are rubbing it IS time to replace your A-F plates. To do this follow the directions below EXACTLY for the most secure mounting.

1. Pry your old plate out with a flat head screwdriver or similar tool.
   
2. CLEAN (and we mean CLEAN) the mounting area for the plates. Use a good solvent and make sure every bit of adhesive residue is removed. Lacqure thinner is best since it does not leave any chemical residue behind.
   
3. Let the Truck. dry and DO NOT TOUCH the mounting areas inside the Truck..
   
4. Heat the Truck With a hairdryer or heat gun until it is warm. The heat will help the adhesive stick.MUCH BETTER. The Truck does not need to be so hot that you can not hold it barehanded.
   
5. Remove the backing on the new plate, one at a time. and do not touch the adhesive.
   
6. Carefully position the new plate over the pins in the wall of the Truck.
   
7. Using a large set of pliers. press the plate onto the pins. You should feel a soft pop as they set.
   
8. Now apply firm pressure to all areas of the plate paying close attention to the outer edges. The more thorough you are the better the bond will be.
   
9. Let the Truck. cool. The adhesive will be at full strength in 24 hours. It is best to wait to ride your board while the adhesive sets up.
   

As for being worth it, are you feeling any stiction in the trucks, weird noise, or wobbling of the cubes within the hangers?

ATB,
Sam

Thanks Sam.

Anyone actually ever do it though? I'm wondering how easily the old ones come off and how well the new ones stick?

Never done it. I'd be interested to hear if someone has as well.