A Beginner's Guide to Trailer Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your cargo trailer can help it last longer and require fewer repairs. There are some things you should leave to a professional, but there are also many simple things you can do yourself. We have created a beginner's guide to cargo trailer maintenance so you can keep your trailer looking and functioning like new.
For more information or to shop for trailers for sale, contact the experts at 1st Choice Trailers. We are based in Goddard, Kansas.
A Quick Note
It is important that you consult your trailer's owner's manual before you do any maintenance tasks. We can give you general tips and advice, but the owner's manual will tell you what your model specifically needs (such as recommended products or a maintenance schedule).
Conduct Regular Trailer Inspections
One of the most important things you can do for trailer maintenance is to regularly inspect it. This will help you find any problems early on before they get worse and cause damage to other parts or cost more to fix. It's also dangerous to use a trailer that isn't in good condition, so regular inspection of your trailer can help keep you safe.
We recommend inspecting your trailer before every road trip. This way, you can catch any problems before they become bigger issues while you're on the road.
Check the Trailer Tires
1. Check the air pressure in your tires. Use a tire gauge when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
2. Check the tread levels on your tires. They will naturally wear down over time and eventually need to be replaced. Make sure you still have enough tread according to your owner's manual.
3. Look for signs of general rot and damage on the tires. If you notice that your tires are wearing down in an uneven or unusual way, it might be a sign that something is wrong. It could be that there is a weight distribution problem with your hauling projects or there might be a mechanical issue.
Check the Trailer Deck
Keep your deck clean in between trips. This will help it stay in good condition over time.
Depending on what kind of material your cargo trailer's deck is made from, you may need to do different things to maintain it. For example, a wooden deck may need to be stained every so often, while a metal deck may need to be monitored for oxidation.
Checking the deck frequently can help you catch issues when they first crop up. That way, you can address them before they become bigger problems.
Maintaining your cargo trailer is an important part of ensuring that it lasts long and works properly. If you need professional maintenance help or want to see the trailers we have in stock, visit 1st Choice Trailers. We are located in Goddard, Kansas, and also serve those in Wichita.