At some point, you will need to remove the handstrap from your Slyde handboard. I had to do this in order to fully clean my handboard. I also removed it in order to apply wax on the surface.
So how do you remove the handstrap from a Slyde handboard? Here are 6 simple steps that you can follow:
- Start on one side by holding back the fabric covering metal screw with one hand
- Use your other hand to unfasten the screw with a Phillips / Flat head screwdriver
- Pluck the loosened screw & washer from the hole with your fingers
- Place the screw & washer in a safe location so it does not get lost
- Repeat the previous 4 actions for the opposite side screw
- Carefully remove the strap from the surface of your board
What you need:
Here is an image and list of what you need before you get started:
- A Slyde handboard
- Phillips / Flat head screwdriver – chose this one from Amazon
- Flat, stable working surface
- Soft surface cover (i.e. towel, blanket, cloth)
You need A Slyde handboard
This instructional tutorial is clearly for removing the strap from a Slyde handboard. It may or may not be useful for other brands of handboards. Therefore make sure you handboard is one of the Slyde collections.
What type of screws are used?
The type of screws used to hold the hand strap in place is a hybrid. At first, the screws look like they need a Phillips head only but after further observation, you can also use a flat head screwdriver.
You need a stable, flat surface
I highly recommend performing this action on a strong, flat surface. It will make removing the screws much easier instead of trying to balance it on your knee or holding it.
Simply holding your board while trying to remove the screws will not allow you to comfortably leverage the power of your screwdriver. This action requires a high degree of torque strength. You will need to push down into the board so a stable surface such as a table is perfect for maximum support while you remove the hand strap.
Cover your working surface with something soft
It is best practice to cover your working surface with a soft, durable liner. I use a folded gym towel or beach blanket. This type of liner will prevent damaging or scratching your board. It will also protect your working surface.
Step-by-step instructions
There are two screws on either side of the strap that keep it secured to your board. You will need to unscrew both with a Phillips head screwdriver in order to remove your hand strap. You will remove the screw on one side first then the other. Here are the simple step-by-step instructions:
Step 1 – Hold back the fabric covering screw
There is a thin piece of fabric that protects the top of each screw on either side of the hand strap. Choose one side to start with and pull back that thin piece of fabric to reveal the head of the screw. Make sure to hold it back far enough in order to provide clearance for your screwdriver to operate.
Step 2 – Unfasten the screw with a screwdriver
Using your other hand, fit the screwdriver into the head of the screw. In order to loosen the screw from its current position, you will have to apply some force into the top of the screw as you rotate the screwdriver handle left. Be careful to not strip the grooves on the head of the screw.
Step 3 – Pluck the loosened screw & washer from the hole
As you continue to turn the screw left, it will ascend from the screw hole away from the washer and hand strap fabric. Once it is fully loosened, put the screwdriver down and remove the screw from its hole with your fingers. Also, remove the washer from its resting location.
Step 4 – Place the screw & washer in a safe area
Once you have the screw and washer in your hand, place them in a safe location. It is very important that you do not lose the screw and washer as they are essential pieces for the strap to function properly. Without them, the strap will not remain firmly secured to the top of your board.
Step 5 – Repeat the previous four actions for the opposite side
Now repeat the previous four actions to remove the screw located on the opposite side of the hand strap. You have to remove both screws in order to remove it.
Step 6 – Carefully remove the strap from your handboard
A word of caution here. Be on the lookout for any sand buildup as it can spill everywhere if you do not remove the hand strap slowly. Sand can stick to the strap and remain lodged in the screw holes.
Related Questions:
What to do if I lose the screw & washer?
If you lose one or both of the hand strap screws then you can reach out to Slyde for replacements or recommendations. You can also shop at your local hardware stores for the same size (I list the correct size at the end of this post).
What to do if the screw & washer are corroded?
If the screws and washers are rusted or corroded then it is time to for some new ones. The integrity is compromised and the hand strap could fail. This is why routine handboard maintenance is essential. Cleaning your handboard and screws will help to keep your handboard healthy.
What size screw & washer is used for the Slyde handstrap?
If you happen to lose the screw and washer on you Slyde handboard or they get corroded then you need to replace them with new ones. I consulted a technician at my local hardware store to determine the correct sizes needed. You can view the measurements in the image below.
So you will need:
- 6mm x 16mm Stainless Steel Flat Phillips Head Screw
- 1/4″ Thin Stainless Steel Washer
Note that the screw and washer may not be the same exact shape but as long as the measurements are equal, it will work for fastening your hand strap to the board. I tested it out and it worked perfectly!