A trailer is a valuable transport asset that will last longer, perform better, and save time and money with proper care and maintenance. By noticing small problems early, you’ll avoid accidents and expensive repairs. Here are three tips to keep your trailer in service, whether you drive an enclosed unit or a flatbed, utility, or gooseneck trailer.

3 Ways to Maintain a Trailer

1. Inspect Parts Before Every Trip

Set your tire pressure to manufacturer-recommended pressures and check your tires cold—at least three hours after driving. If you have pressure-monitoring or inflation systems, inspect each component, and examine each tire for equal pressure and signs of wear, tear, and heat cracks.

Inspect stationary parts, including loose bolts and fasteners. If you hear squeaking or rattling while driving, pull over and reassess. Save money and time by acquiring a set of wrenches that match the measurement system (metric or standard) of your trailer to perform basic maintenance tasks.

Examine the exterior for broken cross members or holes in the roof or base. Identify small repairs, like signs of rust, before they become more extensive and expensive and cargo is damaged by moisture and debris.

Check straps and chains for holes, tears, and excessive wear, and lubricate ratchets and winches.

2. Keep It Clean

Wash your equipment and trailer underside to remove debris and improve visibility with a brush and pressure washer safe for your exterior finish. Don’t wash straps as it may compromise the integrity of the material.

Chemicals on the road, water, and grit can corrode electrical systems. Inspect wires and harness systems, and lubricate connection points with grease. Keep yourself and other drivers safe by checking your lights regularly. Clean your hands before handling bulbs because grease and residue speed up burnout.

Lubricate all moving parts to clean out debris and dirt. Lubricants have different viscosities for specific parts like wheel bearings, so ask your trailer repair specialist for recommendations.

3. Know Your Limitations

Brakes are essential for safety and include electric and hydraulic components that require specific tools for repair and adjustment. Suspension components under tension can lead to serious injury if handled improperly.

Coupling parts are vital for keeping your cargo attached, and breakaway systems are legally required for safety and shouldn’t be tampered with. Take problems with coupling devices to trailer service professionals for repair.

 

For further suggestions about maintaining your trailer, visit family-owned Rumley Trailers in Browns Summit, NC. They have decades of experience and a large inventory of vehicles, parts, and accessories. They’ll get your trailer back in service with quick, trustworthy maintenance and repairs guaranteed to keep you safely on the road. Check their inventory online, or call (336) 669-0709 to schedule a repair or routine maintenance service.