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Utility Trailer Maintenance Tips

When it comes to utility trailer maintenance, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way. While most cargo trailers are designed and built strong enough to withstand the elements, having a maintenance schedule is important and will help maintain the value of your investment, reduce costly repairs, and operate more efficiently, which of course in the long run is less downtime on the job.

Some trailer owners are happy to keep up with the utility trailer maintenance themselves, but not all trailer owners have the time. That’s where the experts at Hilltop Tire Service in Des Moines can help you. Our experienced trailer technicians have the skill and equipment needed to repair and maintain all types of trailers.

Since we are known in the area as the trailer parts and repair experts, we put together a checklist of utility trailer maintenance tips, that either you, as the trailer owner can do, or our experts at any of our service center locations in the Des Moines area. It’s also a good idea to check the owner’s manual for any additional maintenance items that may be specific to your trailer.

Utility Trailer Maintenance Check List

• 1. Keep it clean – the simple task of keeping your utility trailer washed and cleaned really pays off. Just like your vehicle, dirt, dust, grime, and road salt can damage the paint and undercarriage of your trailer. By keeping your trailer clean, it makes it easier to notice little things that need attention, before they get too big expensive repairs.
• 2. Tire Inspection – regular inspection of the tires is probably the most important maintenance task for trailers owners. Always check the tire pressure and tread depth in each tire, ensure the lug nuts are tight, and give the trailer tires a good visual inspection, looking out for bald spots in the tread, bulges on the sidewall, or any signs of irregular wear or damage. Don’t forget to check the spare tire as well!
• 3. Wheel bearings – keeping the wheel bearings lubricated or repacking the wheel bearings is important for your trailer to run smoothly. As the grease in the bearing ages, it breaks down and causes friction which can eventually seize up the wheel if it’s not properly greased.
• 4. Trailer Lights – Make sure the taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights work properly. A burned-out light can be dangerous, not to mention the fine you could get if you get pulled over.
• 5. Grease the hinges – Keep the hinges and doors lubricated to keep them in great condition as well as make them easier to use.
• 6. Safety Chains– Check the chains for wear or damage. Make sure the chains don’t drag on the road causing them to weaken.

Knowing what utility trailer maintenance and repairs to do yourself is an excellent way to save a little money while protecting your investment. However, you will benefit from professional help on the bigger more complicated trailer repairs such as brakes, trailer wiring, suspension, and breakaway system. It’s just not worth the time and effort to do it yourself.

Hilltop Tire Service is your trailer parts and repair superstore. We specialize in utility trailer maintenance and repairs and we have a large inventory of trailer parts and accessories in stock. From trailer axles and tires to hitches and toolboxes, we probably have what you’re looking for!  And now with trailer rental available at our Des Moines locations, we make it even easier for you when your trailer is down and in need of repair.