Yoyo maintenance
When is it time to change the string?
After some time (sometimes after just a few hours of actual yoyoing), the string starts to get dirty, greasy, and loses its elasticity. It often becomes faded and looks worn out – and most importantly, it becomes harder to yoyo with.
Deal with knots right away
As soon as a knot appears in your string, try to untangle it. If you can't undo it quickly and without using force, it's easier to replace the string and keep going without the hassle.
How to change the string
Hold the yoyo in one hand and use the other hand to slowly untwist the string near the yoyo. After a while, you'll see a loop around the bearing – once it is large enough, simply pull it off. You don't need to unscrew the yoyo to do this (and your axle threads will last longer).
With a new string, grab the correct end (the one without the loop) and slowly twist it until a small loop forms. Pull the loop over the yoyo and twist the string back in the opposite direction to tighten it.
String length
A recommended length is roughly from your belly button to the ground. Smaller yoyo players often prefer a slightly longer string, which gives them more room to work with their hands and stance.
If you shorten your string, tie a new knot at the end so that the loop is about 2 cm long. Tighten the knot firmly, cut off the excess, and then adjust the loop around your finger as usual.
How to tell if your bearing is dirty
If the bearing gets stuck, makes a grinding or rattling noise, spins for only a short time, or the yoyo starts returning when you pull it up even though it shouldn't, the bearing is almost certainly just dirty.
This is completely normal – over time, dust, dirt, pieces of string, or even a hair can get inside the bearing. After cleaning, it should spin freely and for a long time, and a responsive yoyo should stay unresponsive.
What you'll need
Prepare lighter fluid, a small container with a lid, tweezers, a pin, a tissue/toilet paper, and bearing oil.
Cleaning the bearing
First, remove the bearing from the yoyo. If you want, you can also remove the bearing shields (this isn't necessary) – it can help dirt get out more easily. Use a pin to carefully remove the small wire that holds the shield in place. Be careful with your fingers.
Place the bearing in the container and fill it with lighter fluid until the bearing is completely submerged. Close the container, shake it, and let the bearing soak for about 15 minutes. Then remove the bearing with tweezers, let it dry, and spin it as fast as you can.
If it still feels rough or makes noise, you can repeat the process. Finally, you can add a few drops of bearing oil – it will make the bearing smoother and quieter, but it may also spin for a slightly shorter time.
When to remove the bearing
The bearing is mainly removed for cleaning or replacement. You can use something like the YoYoFactory Multitool or suitable pliers.
Be careful
Gently wiggle the bearing from side to side until it comes loose. If it is very tight, be patient and gradually apply a little more force. If you're using pliers, place a cloth between the pliers and the bearing to avoid scratching anything.
Putting the bearing back and protecting the axle threads
When putting the bearing back, place it gently and press it into position with your thumb. When screwing the yoyo back together, tighten it firmly, but never overtighten it – the threads can easily be damaged.
Why you should fix it
A twisted string isn't just a cosmetic issue. The yoyo becomes harder to wind and throw, and some tricks simply won't work properly with a twisted string.
The easiest method
For beginners, the easiest method is to take the string off your finger, hold the yoyo in your hand, and let the string hang freely downward – it will often untwist itself. To help it along, you can gently slide your other hand down the string from top to bottom.
Advanced untwisting
A common trick is to untwist the string while the yoyo is in a Sleeper – hold the string lightly so it can slide, pull your throwing hand upward, and place your other hand next to the yoyo. If that doesn't work, try the other direction.
Advanced yoyo players can also untwist the string using tricks such as UFO or Sidewinder. Here's an easy way to check: bring the yoyo and the end of the string with the loop next to each other – if the string stops twisting, you're good to go.
What is a response system?
A response system (pads / stickers) is a small ring in the yoyo's response groove that helps the yoyo return to your hand and also affects how the yoyo responds when thrown. Different brands and yoyo models use different thicknesses, widths, and types of response pads.
How to replace response pads
Carefully remove the old pad using something sharp (be careful not to scratch the yoyo). Then check the groove – if there is old adhesive, pieces of string, or dirt inside, clean it thoroughly. Peel the new pad off its backing paper and carefully place it into the groove. Finally, run your finger over it to make sure it is firmly attached. Repeat the process on both sides of the yoyo.
When is it time to replace them?
It's easy to tell: the yoyo becomes harder to throw and doesn't return properly. If you're not sure which response system your yoyo uses, check the product page for your specific model on our website or contact us – we'll be happy to help.