Regardless of whether you’re a tradie, passionate outdoors adventurer, or just an occasional weekend gardener, keeping your trailer in good working condition is a must. This is important for more than just longevity and reliability; it’s also crucial for the safety and cost-effectiveness of your rig. Regular maintenance has the power to prevent unexpected breakdowns, improve everyday performance, and give a welcome boost to the lifespan of your trailer.

So what do you need to look out for? Here are the essential longevity tips for trailers to help you get the most from your rig.

Regularly Inspect Your Trailer

No list of maintenance tips for trailers is complete without this simple classic. Regularly inspect your trailer for signs of wear and tear. Look for rust, cracks, and any loose or missing parts and pay special attention to the hitch, suspension, and tyres. It’s also crucial that you don’t forget the underside of your trailer. Here, you should check for corrosion and structural damage – particularly if you frequently travel on rough or salty roads.

Keep On Top of Tyre Maintenance

Always maintain the recommended tyre pressure, as under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can lead to uneven wear and increase the risk of blowout. You should also check to see if your tyres have adequate tread depth. Worn tyres can compromise traction and stability, especially in wet conditions. Finally, rotate your tyres regularly to ensure they are properly aligned to promote even wear and improve the handling of your trailer.

Don’t Forget Lubrication and Look After Wheel Bearings

Keep the hitch and coupler well-lubricated to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. It’s a good idea to use a high-quality lubricant designed for these components, as this will give the maximum level of performance and rust protection. Always lubricate all the moving parts – including the suspension and wheel bearings – to reduce any unwanted friction and prevent premature wear. Poorly maintained wheel bearings are the most common cause of trailer problems!

Double Check Your Electrical System

Check all lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights, to make sure they are functioning correctly. It goes without saying, but you should always replace any burnt-out bulbs immediately. Whilst you’re there, it’s good practice to inspect the wiring for signs of damage or corrosion. Secure any loose wires and repair or replace damaged sections as needed.

Give Your Brake System a Once-Over

Look over the brake pads and discs for wear, replacing the problem sections when necessary to maintain effective braking performance. You should also ensure the brake fluid is at the correct level – if not, replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Work on Your Load Management

Did you know that overloading is a major cause of trailer damage? Always be aware of the weight limits of your trailer to avoid any costly (and potentially unsafe) accidents from occurring. Take some time to consider the position of the trailer loads as well; loads should be positioned over the centre of your trailer axles. If the load is too far forward, the drawbar will be too heavy to lift. Alternatively, if too far back, the trailer will tend to tilt backwards.

It’s also really important to remember that jockey wheels are not designed to support heavy loads and should only be used to move the trailer when it is empty.

Running Gear Maintenance

After the first 50 km of travel, it’s a good idea to check wheel nuts and bearings, and then every six months thereafter. Excessive heat from the centre of the wheel rims is a sign of bearing damage and can cause wheels to detach in some severe scenarios.

Get into the habit of doing this yourself, but also book in for regular servicing to have a professional look over your rug. Regular servicing helps identify and fix issues before they become major problems, and it’s generally thought that trailers should be serviced every 12 months.

Complete Regular Cleaning and Protection

Clean your trailer regularly to remove any nasty dirt, salt, and debris that can cause rust and corrosion. Wash your trailer down after carrying acidic or alkaline materials, including grass clippings and fertilisers, and do not leave refuse in the trailer for extended periods.

You may also choose to apply protective coatings to vulnerable areas to prevent rust and corrosion, or invest in products like rust inhibitors and sealants that can offer added protection.

Always Consider Your Storage

When not in use, store your trailer in a sheltered area to protect it from the elements, using a trailer cover if outdoor storage is the only option. Even during periods of inactivity, perform periodic check-ups to ensure the trailer remains in good condition and is ready for use when needed.

Achieve Peak Trailer Performance Today

By following these maintenance tips for trailers, you can significantly extend their longevity and reliability. Regular inspections, proper lubrication, tyre maintenance, and attention to the electrical and brake systems are key to keeping your trailer in optimal condition. Remember, a well-maintained trailer not only performs better but also ensures safety for you and others on the road.

At Coastmac, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality trailers and attachments built for the long haul. Our experienced staff is always here to offer after-sales servicing and support to help you maintain your investment.

Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

If your trailer is getting old or worn out, explore our extensive collection of trailers for sale.