Simple Tips on Keeping Up with Trailer Maintenance

Trailers were designed to last long and survive wear and tear, but they still need some TLC every once in a while. Whether you’re giving the gift of a new trailer or treating yourself, it’s essential to keep up with maintenance. From rocks and bumps to other roadblocks, heavy-haul trailers deal with it all, eventually causing unsuspected damage. So gather around, grab a notepad and pen, and take some notes because we came up with some simple tips on keeping up with your trailer maintenance. 

Don’t Tire It Out

Ensuring the longevity of your tires is critical. Check the pressure on all tires to make sure inflation is at the proper PSI. You can find this on the outer wall of the tire. Monitoring tread depth and keeping up with routine tire rotation are also important. Wheel bearings are essential and should be checked every 1,000 miles or every six months. Checking your tires only takes a few minutes and can end up saving you a lot of trouble down the road.  

Keep the Suspense

Since the trailer will most likely be used for long hauling or heavy-duty operations, take the time to inspect the suspension. The suspension system increases friction between the tires and the road to provide good handling and steering stability. Look for heat cracks on the springs and any wear and tear signs that don’t look normal. If you have a good trailer manufacturer, they will know that nothing should be near the suspension or getting in the way of its movement.

Throw Some Grease on It

Debris tends to cling onto grease, making it ineffective. Old grease needs to be pushed out with new grease to keep all the “bells and whistles” working correctly. The type of grease you choose is vital as not all manufacturers label the performance characteristics clearly. Consider its thickening system, performance rating, and grade when selecting the right grease. If you’re looking for new grease that will make a difference and clear out any old gunk, see what your local trailer part and accessory dealer has to offer. 

Brake Check

Whether you have a typical tandem axle utility or horse trailer, you’ll most likely be dealing with an electric brake system. There are two brakes on each axle on most trailers, but if you have a tandem axle trailer, it will have four brakes. It’s not always as easy as stepping on the pedal to see if the brakes are working correctly, so schedule an appointment every few months or be on the safe side. Keeping your brakes in check will give you peace of mind and extra assurance when it comes to your safety, the safety of those around you, and the lifespan of your trailer.

Lights but Not Least 

Lighting and hardware can be susceptible to corrosion, so regular washing and hosing of the trailer are necessary. In worse case scenarios, if the corrosion gets out of hand, it can destroy the electrical system. To keep corrosion to a minimum, inspect the lighting, wires, and other areas that could be easily affected to help stop the spread.

If followed and taken seriously, these simple tips can help prevent a lot of headaches, saving you time and money in the long run. You or that special someone might love their trailer, but it needs a lot of TLC if you want to get the most out of it. Please stop by any of our two locations or schedule a service appointment with one of our experienced team members today. We’re happy to help you with your trailer journey!