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ADVICE
Top 5 handy trailer maintenance hints
Once the trailer boat is ready for the water, it’s time to swing attention to what will get it down thereWe’ve already covered off the important things owners should do before hooking up the boat after a long lay-up.
The trailer is sometimes one of the most neglected pieces of equipment, even though a minor problem could be enough to completely ruin a day out on the water. Eliminating the potential problems with them, then, is key.
Here are Boatsales.com.au’s top five tips for reducing the risk of trailer failure:
- Allow the trailer’s bearings to cool down before launching at the ramp – allow about 20 minutes typically. Heat is the biggest enemy when trying to avoid drawing water into unwanted places such as wheel hubs.
- Stop along the way when towing on longer trips and run your hand over the bearings to check for excessive heat. Bearings at normal temperatures should be okay to touch. They may be hotter if significant braking has taken place, but if they’re too hot there might be a problem with the bearings or the brake caliper – be vigilant.
- Many trailers are either imported or assembled with imported components. From a replacement point of view, it pays to have your running gear assessed and matched with local products that are more readily available. Never assume that the local service station or car parts centre will stock the bit you need.
- Preparation is everything for an interstate trip. Have your trailer professionally serviced, carry spares such as bearings, leaf springs, bearing pins, brake pads, grease, and a jack, and ensure you are carrying the tools you will need in a breakdown.
- Don’t force too much in when topping up the bearings with a grease gun. Overfill the bearing cavity with grease and you risk popping the seal.
All that makes sense? Here’s a bonus hint to round out the numbers:
- Consider stainless steel-backed brake pads if storing a trailer for long periods. This will help to avoid rust causing delamination of inactive brake pads.
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Written byDan Wright
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Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
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