Whilst certainly nowhere near as complex as cars, trailers do still require maintenance in order to remain safe to use on the roads. You should make sure to check your trailer before use for any issues to avoid potential damage and even harm that could be caused by failure. Here is a list of a few basic signs that your trailer may need attention.
Trailer Rust
Rust is the bane of any vehicle made from steel, and trailers are certainly no exception. In fact, given that a lot of trailer manufacturers don't go to the lengths to protect their products with underseal or protective paint that car manufacturers do, trailers will often begin to rust in a surprisingly short amount of time. A little surface rust doesn't really pose much risk, but rusted through panels can compromise the trailer's load bearing ability, and rusting around structural joints, the chassis of the trailer and any welds can spell trouble as well. Be sure to check that all moving parts can move freely, and that attachment points are sturdy and rust free.
Trailer Tyres
Be sure to check your trailer's tyres and to ensure that they are pumped up to the correct levels. The amount of pressure you should run will actually vary depending on the load, and the tyres themselves will also have a maximum weight capacity, Be sure not to exceed this, as a blowout can be incredibly dangerous. Check the tread depth, and make sure there's no curbing or damage to the tyres too.
Excessively Bumpy or Bouncy Trailer
If your trailer bounces all over the show, or tends to rattle, shudder or otherwise misbehave over bumps and rough road surfaces, then there may be an issue with its suspension. Most trailers have very basic suspension (if any) but it should limit the impact of bumps and other rough surfaces. If the trailer makes excessive noise as well, such as creaking clunking and groaning, then it may indicate an issue with the suspension.
Electrical Issues
Trailers require all the same lights as the rear of your car. Before you set off with a trailer, then always have someone stand behind it and check that the lights work as you operate them. Even though they are very simple systems, it is very important that you make sure that your traler's electrics all function correctly. Luckily, replacement bulbs, lights and even entire wiring kits are readily available and not too pricey.
Clunking and Clicking
If your trailer makes rhythmic clunking or clicking noises when you tow it along, then there's a good chance that the joints in your axles, or the bearing in your hubs have become worn or damaged. This will often be most noticeable when you are turning and can also cause a slight shuddering or vibration as you travel.
Leaking Around The Axles or Hubs
Check for oily dirt build up around your axles and hubs - if the boots are leaking or perished then the dried out moving parts will eventually begin to suffer damage as a result, which will often lead to the aforementioned clicking, clunking and vibrations.
*Important information* - Click here to read more about our How-To terms and conditions.