Towing the line: Telltale signs it’s time for some serious trailer maintenance

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on email

Doing routine trailer maintenance will most likely prolong its life and save you money on an upgrade. We flag some classic wear and tear issues and clarify when it’s best to get your trailer repaired and when it’s time to think about buying something new.

Rust and corrosion

Trailers left outside for extended periods of time can become susceptible to rust or corrosion. When aluminum corrodes, small holes form, whereas steel begins to rust. If your trailer shows signs of surface rust on the body (bar the trailer floor) then this is more of a cosmetic problem. However, rust or corrosion on the frame is a serious problem and a sign that it could be time for a new trailer.

Tyres

Your tyres may look new, but good trailer maintenance involves regular inspections even when nothing appears to be wrong. Check for signs of dry rot, particularly if your trailer has been stationary on grass for some time. Dry rot occurs when tyres become dried out and have cracked rubber in the sidewalls. It’s a serious problem that dramatically increases the likelihood of a blown tyre. If you suspect dry rot, get your tyres checked by a professional – it may be time for new ones.

Axles

If you’ve hit a kerb or rocky surface, there’s a chance you may have bent an axle. If it looks like one of your tyres is facing in or out a little more than the others, take your trailer to a mechanic to have your axles properly checked out.

Brakes

The only way to check the electric brakes is to connect your trailer to your tow vehicle, slide the electric brake control manual lever over and test to feel that all four wheels are resisting movement. If you have any concerns about the performance of your trailer brakes, take them to a mechanic to be inspected. Brake issues need to be addressed immediately.

Floor

The trailer floor is of utmost importance as it bears the load of all your precious cargo. If taken care of, it can last 15 to 20 years. Be sure to keep the floor protected from the wet and regularly pull up any mats and inspect for rust or other damage. Signs of holes, severe rust or corrosion on your trailer floor indicate that it’s time to upgrade your trailer.

Coupling

Your coupling is the component that connects the ball hitch to your vehicle. Do check it for rust – however, as long as there isn’t a large amount visible, it should be in safe working condition.

A little bit of inspection and routine trailer maintenance can go a long way toward extending the life of your trailer. However, don’t be dismayed if you need to replace your trailer entirely – it’s your safety and the safety of your cargo that is of paramount importance.

Identifying problems is one thing, repairing them is the next step. Read up on how to upgrade or repair your trailer and get wise to some trailer dos and don’ts.

RECENT ARTICLES

ebook library

ebook - Upgrade Your Caravan

Our collection of eBooks are a valuable resource for any novice or experienced caravan holiday-maker.

JOIN US

To receive regular towing hints, tips sign up to our newsletter today! Without A Hitch is the place you can turn to for up-do-date information.

For access to our collection of eBooks, simply sign up to Without a Hitch and we will send you access to our online library;

ALREADY SIGNED UP? ENTER YOUR EMAIL & WE'LL SEND YOU ACCESS TO OUR eBOOK LIBRARY

NEW TO WITHOUT A HITCH - JOIN US

To receive access to our eBook library, regular towing hints, tips sign up to our newsletter today! Without A Hitch is the place you can turn to for up-do-date information.