Heavy-duty trailers are robust, durable, and able to withstand long hours of travel and heavy loads. They carry a variety of loads and traverse different road conditions, but those factors can cause damage. If the trailer is not inspected and properly maintained, it can become a costly problem. That’s where preventative trailer maintenance can help.
Read these helpful trailer maintenance tips and keep your trailers on the road with fewer problems, longer.
1. Always Do Pre- And Post-Trip Inspections
Any fleet maintenance for any vehicle or trailer should always include a pre-and post-trip inspection. These checks help catch minor issues and repairs before the problem worsens. Inspections will make sure every part of the trailer can support the weight of heavy loads.
Check the tires for proper inflation, make sure the hydraulic breaks are in good condition and properly lubricated. Also, check that the load straps or chains are securely in place. That will help prevent the risk of load shifts during transport.
2. Follow The Load Capacity Rules
Load capacity is in place to help protect the vehicle and its components from excessive wear or unexpected breakdowns. Overloading a trailer risks wearing down the brakes and tires much faster than they should. Premature breakdown leads to risks of accidents or loss of vehicle control during turns and braking. You should also pay attention to load distribution. Uneven loading or weight placement is just as likely to cause uneven wear across the trailer.
3. Air Bags, Wiring, and ABS
In addition to external checks and care, it’s essential to check systems that keep the driver safe. Ensure that the trailer’s safety features need to be checked and kept in top condition. The airbags, wiring for lights, and anti-lock air braking are all essential features.
For checks like these, always get a professional to do the inspections and trailer repairs. In an emergency, your drivers need every piece of the trailer to work correctly, and professional repair and trailer maintenance can help ensure that.
4. Repair External Damage
Nicks in the paint, chips in the trailer’s side, or scrapes don’t just look bad; they risk more significant problems. Exposed metal and wet conditions are the ideal combination for corrosion and rust to settle in. Once it does, the damage can rapidly lead to costly repairs and potential replacements. If your trailer has damage on its body, take the time to do repairs or, if need be, invest in a replacement. It’ll help save more in the long run by acting early and eliminating downtime for an important trailer.
5. Repair or Replace the Landing Gear
In addition to general maintenance and checks, maintenance of specific parts is just as important. On a trailer, the landing gear is one of those critical parts. It helps with stabilization, lifting and lowering, and is generally used every time a load is involved. Keeping the landing gear up to date, in good condition, and free of wear will keep the trailer safe. For general trailer maintenance, keep the landing gear parts lubricated and clean of debris that could cause damage when loading and unloading. Schedule a professional to do an expert inspection to make sure everything is operational.
Need professional fleet maintenance? Then Motorplex is here to help. Contact us now to book an appointment in Auburn, WA or Spokane, WA!
For all your maintenance and trailer repairs, Motorplex is here to help! They have shops in Auburn and Spokane, WA, for service anytime you need them.
Call us to set up a schedule for your truck fleet maintenance!
• Spokane: 509-571-9002
• Auburn: 253-245-5400
