Maintaining And Repairing Your Trailer
Keeping up with routine maintenance for your trailer is just as important as repairing the truck that tows it. Many people tend to ignore maintaining their trailer, which over time can become a cost and a safety issue.
Every year, there are countless reports of serious traffic accidents where a truck lost control because of a malfunctioning trailer. Having a routine trailer maintenance inspection can solve many of these problems.
Think of a maintenance inspection for your trailer as something like an oil change. You wouldn't ignore changing the oil in your truck. The same should apply to maintenance and repairs for your trailer.
At Trucks 'N Trailers USA, we provide trailer maintenance inspections to help keep your trailer on the road. Here are some important trailer parts that should get regularly inspected.
Trailer Coupler
The trailer coupler is located at the very front of the trailer. It attaches to the vehicle hitch ball. The coupler should snugly attach to the hitch ball. Examine the coupler for wear and tear and cracks anywhere in the coupler area.
Trailer Brakes
Almost any two-axle trailer will have brakes on it. It is important to have these brakes inspected to prevent damage to your truck and trailer. During an inspection brake components are checked for wear and proper function.
Wheel Bearings
Your trailers wheel bearings from time to time need to be repacked or replaced. Bearing failure from lack of maintenance could cause the hub to come off the trailer, or damage to the spindle requiring replacement of the axle.
Trailer Brake Controller
The trailer brake controller regulates the braking power of your trailer. When your truck is hauling heavy loads, the trailer brake controller can be set to apply more stopping power. You should verify that trailer brakes are operating before each trip.
Trailer Safety Chains
Trailer safety chains are the first line of defense in preventing a runaway trailer. Safety chains are attached from your trailer to your truck by crossing them below the coupler.
It is required by law to have safety chains. It is important to inspect the length and condition of the chains. During an inspection, look for rust as well as wear in the chain links.
Trailer Breakaway Kit
Trailer breakaway kits, also known as breakaway systems, are the last line of defense in protecting against a runaway trailer. In the event that your trailer becomes detached while driving, the trailer breakaway kit activates your trailer's brakes to stop the runaway trailer. Most states require your trailer to have a breakaway kit.
Trailer lights
Having properly functioning lights on your trailer is important. Sometimes, wires running beneath your trailer can become worn and tattered after being exposed to the elements for some time.
Be sure to regularly test your lights. If the lights are not working, check the light bulbs followed by the wiring, and then the connection point where it hooks to the tow vehicle.
Tie Down Tracks, E-Tracks, D-Rings
These parts help secure cargo on your trailer. Be sure to inspect your trailer's tie down tracks, e-tracks and d-rings for wear and tear. Look for metal wear, cracks and breaking as well as rough and sharp edges. Mounting rivets and screws should also be inspected to make sure they aren't pulling away from the wall or their connection point. When your cargo is tied down, it should feel snug and secure.
Trailer Jacks
The trailer jack is used to keep your trailer level when it is not attached to your truck. During inspection, remove your trailer from your truck and test the jack to see if it can support the trailer's weight. Look for bends or cracks around welds and connection points.
Doing Your Training Maintenance Inspection The Right Way
It can be tough to find the time to regularly inspect your trailer. Trucks 'N Trailers USA has the parts and resources to get the job done right. We offer maintenance inspections on trailers, and we have the parts in stock to get the repairs done.
Contact us today for a trailer maintenance inspection.
