How to Avoid Common Trailer Breakdowns
Trailers are durable, versatile tools, but like any machine they aren’t infallible. Your trailer relies on your maintenance skills and attention to ensure it remains in good condition. We here at Utility Trailer of Washington know you’re busy, so we’ve put together some tips on how to avoid common trailer breakdowns. If you have any questions, or you just want to see the trailers we have for sale, contact our stores in Auburn, Mt. Vernon, or Richland, Washington, today!
Overheated Bearings
Your bearings utilize a small amount of grease to avoid overheating, but that grease gets used up over time. That can cause overheating as the metal parts grind each other up, and water can leak in where the grease was and cause rusting, which can lead to a total collapse. Noise and heat both indicate bad bearings, which you’ll want to change out once a year. If they’re still in good condition, merely re-grease them.
Bad Tires
Tires wear out over time, as well, but you should never drive on bad tires at all. Before every trip, check the tread level to make sure it matches manufacturer recommendations in your owner’s manual. If the tread is too low, you’ll need one or more new tires. If it’s wearing down unevenly, that indicates a potential alignment problem and you should take your trailer to a service center immediately.
Tire pressure is just as important, so make sure your tires are properly inflated before every trip. Pressure that’s too low or too high can cause damage to your tires and decrease your fuel economy.
Damaged Suspension
Leaf springs are useful, but they go bad too. If you see light between them or the leaves start spreading, they need replacing. For trailers that go off-road, over gravel, or on other difficult terrain regularly, you may need a more durable and less modular suspension system.
Rust or Corrosion
Even aluminum trailers can corrode over time, and steel is pretty susceptible to rust. This is likely to start in places you can’t see normally, so take a look under your trailer regularly to check for signs of rust or corrosion. This is especially important if you drive out to the coast regularly, since the salty and humid sea air can cause faster rusting.
Maladjusted Brakes
This one should be left to the experts, given how dangerous bad brakes can be. Make sure to get your brakes and brake cables inspected regularly by a professional to check for signs of wear or fraying.
If you’re not sure where to go for trusted maintenance, come by one of our locations. We’ve got unbeatable service technicians, and you can check out the trailers we have available while you wait. We proudly serve the people of Washington State—let us serve you today!