- General Inspection and Cleaning
Before storing your trailer for the off-season, conduct a thorough inspection:
- Tyres: Check for proper inflation, tread wear, and any signs of damage.
- Rust and Damage: Look for signs of corrosion, especially in joints and welds.
- Lights and Reflectors: Ensure all are clean, functional, and free from cracks.
- Lubrication: Apply appropriate lubricants to the tow coupling, winch bushes, gears, and brake mechanisms.
Saltwater exposure is particularly harsh on trailers. Even galvanized trailers can corrode over time. After each use, especially in marine environments, wash your trailer thoroughly with warm water and detergent. Pay special attention to flushing out the inside of the chassis and cross members by inserting a hose into the drain holes. If possible, immersing the trailer in fresh water (like a river or lake) after saltwater use can also help mitigate corrosion.
- Leaf Springs Care
Boat trailer leaf springs are particularly susceptible to corrosion:
- Cleaning: After each use, rinse the springs thoroughly with fresh water.
- Protection: Once dry, apply a penetrating oil or rust inhibitor, such as Vertex Enviro Lube, to prolong their lifespan.
Remember, most damage occurs after launching when the trailer sits in the sun, so regular maintenance is crucial.
- Brake System Maintenance
Trailer brakes endure more wear than those on your towing vehicle, especially with regular saltwater immersion:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly hose down brakes after each saltwater exposure.
- Inspection: Check pads and slide pins for wear or damage. Ensure the calliper moves freely by hand.
- Lubrication: While callipers lack greasing points, periodically lubricate the two slide pins, ideally when replacing brake pads.
- Brake Fluid: Renew brake fluid annually, as it can become contaminated with moisture, leading to internal corrosion and brake component seizure.
- Wheel Bearing Replacement
Regularly inspect and replace wheel bearings to prevent failures:
- Preparation: Loosen wheel nuts and jack up the trailer until the wheel clears the ground. Always use axle stands for safety.
- Disassembly: Remove the wheel, gently tap off the dust cap, and extract the split pin from the castle nut. Remove the castle nut and washer, then pull the hub off the axle.
- Bearing Removal: Remove the seal and seal retaining washer to access the bearing.
Regular maintenance of wheel bearings ensures smooth operation and prevents costly repairs down the line.
Final Thoughts
Investing time in end-of-summer trailer maintenance not only extends the life of your trailer but also increases safety for future adventures. By following these guidelines, you'll be ready for the next season with confidence.
For quality parts and further advice, TWL has you covered. Proudly supporting New Zealand's transport industry since 1966.