When the weather starts to get warm, it’s tempting to go out every weekend with your toys. Whether it’s boats, ATVs or motorcycles that gets your engines revving, you need something to that will tow your recreational vehicles. Some guys buy trailers new, some don’t; the choice is up to you. However, there are things to check over if you plan to buy used, and maintenance that must done routinely on any Trailer.
If you’re looking to purchase a used trailer, there are a few things you may want to check prior to making a purchase.
- Be sure to check the electrical system, it’s important to make sure that the lights work.
- Test the brakes, turn signals, and running lights.
- You’re also going to want to check the axle, make sure that the springs and bolts are all in good shape. Sometimes these parts can get rusted out and break, and while on the road, could mean bad news and an expensive repair.
- Check the tires, tread wear doesn’t indicate wear on a trailer, cracked sidewalls do, if the tire looks old, it needs replacing. Also, make sure to check all lug nuts to see that they’re tight.
- Ask the seller the last time he serviced the bearings. Regardless, always check them yourself to make sure.
- You’ll then want to make sure the tongue and hitch is in good shape, the safety chains. Be sure to find out what size ball the coupler uses and the plug for the brake lights.
- Finally, make sure the trailer has a clear title have a plan to register your trailer. Call your DMV before you purchase a trailer to see what is involved before you hand over your cash.
Maintaining Your Trailer
Now that you’ve made your purchase, you need to learn about what to keep your eye out for to keep your trailer in shape. Trailers aren’t complex, so maintenance is fairly easy to anyone who can twist a wrench.
The most important parts to keep maintained are the brakes and bearings. If you are using your trailer to haul a boat, chances are you will come in contact with saltwater. Saltwater causes the brakes and drums to rust and cause premature wear, so be sure to rinse these areas thoroughly. Even with thorough rinsing, it’s not possible to get all of the salt out. Through this use you can expect to need new brakes every year and a half, and, when replacing these drum brakes, you might as well replace everything, which means hardware, wheel cylinders, and shoes.
Custom aluminum wheels can actually save you money down the road. Aluminum wheels, such as a five spoke machined trailer wheel can dissipate heat on your brakes and give you a lighter load, which saves money at the gas tank. Also, most quality wheels brands have a great towing capacity, too.
You will want to service your bearings at least once a year. You can tell how much grease your bearings may have by checking the spring compression. If the outer spring appears to be compressed, then your bearings are full. If the spring appears to be extended, then you will want to add grease until the spring compresses fully. You should still do a full routine check of your bearings at least once a year. This includes taking the bearings out of the wheel, pulling them apart, inspecting and repacking with new wheel bearing grease if needed.
Electrical components are important. Be sure to inspect your lights before driving, there is nothing worse than being pulled over with your brand new trailer only to find out the brake lights don’t work You will need to check your brakes, running light, and blinkers.
If you find one of your lights doesn’t work, first, check the plug. If the plug is connected and it’s still not getting charge, check the bulb. If the bulb is intact, then check your wiring. Wiring can rot away over time; contacts can corrode, or become loose with heavy vibration from use. A good way to test wiring is to use a circuit tester. Be sure to check these before driving, this can save you a pricey ticket and ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers on the road.
As far as your coupler goes, it doesn’t necessarily need maintenance, but does need to be inspected for proper function. You will want to check the coupler for wear, and it doesn’t hurt to keep these components greased, as sometimes the latch may become stiff or jarred. I recommend adding lubricant to the tongue jack and locking mechanisms.
Now you’re trailer is good to go, ready for the next adventure, ready to go cross-country and back, or to mom’s house to help her move that fine china. Either way, if you take good care of your trailer, once you have it in good working order, check in with the guys at
4Wheelonline.com to get it looking sweet with a
fresh set of trailer wheels.
By Sean Bowes