Trailer Pre-Season Check-Up

Consider a few things before taking your personal or commercial trailer back out on the road after winter storage. And by your personal trailer, I mean one you might use for your recreational vehicle. When I say commercial trailer, I mean, for example, construction equipment. 

Regardless of what you use it for, it is important to perform a trailer pre-season check-up. Below is a checklist to help you get your trailer ready for the season.

• Check the tires. 

The first step in a trailer pre-season check-up is to inspect the tread and sidewalls for damage or wear. If your tire has a worn-down tread, replace the tire. If you have cracks or damage to your sidewalls, have a professional inspect the tire to see if they need to replace it. 

You should also check the tire pressure and adjust as needed.

• Test the brakes. 

The brake pads should be in good condition and not worn down too much. If they are, replace them before hitting the road. If your trailer has electric brakes, check the batteries and brakes are working correctly. If it has surge brakes, inspect the fluid reservoir and ensure there’s enough fluid.

• Check the lights.

Check that your trailer’s lights are working correctly before heading out. That includes brake and taillights and turn signals. If any bulbs are burned out, replace them before hitting the road.

If you’re a commercial trailer user, you may be interested in getting commercial insurance to cover your trailer. You may want to review Northeast – MetroWest Insurance’s equipment floater insurance if you’re a contractor.

• Inspect the hitch.

Properly secure the hitch to the vehicle, making sure all bolts are tight. If you are using a transceiver style hitch, make sure to use the correct size pin when you attach the trailer, this will limit undue stress while in stop-and-go traffic.  It’s also vital that the ball is the right size for the trailer hitch.

• Check the wiring and electrical system.

Make sure your brake and running lights and signals work. Inspect the wiring to make sure it’s not damaged or frayed. If it is, have it repaired or replaced before your trip. 

Hook the trailer up to the tow vehicle to test the electrical system. It will also help you to see if everything is working right.

• Test the jack.

Make sure the jack is working in good condition and can support the weight of your trailer. Inspect the bolts that connect the jack flange to the trailer frame, make sure the bolts are tight, and not rusted beyond safe usage. 

• Check the tongue weight.

The tongue weight is the downward force the trailer tongue exerts on the hitch. For proper balance, it should be 10 to 15 percent of the trailer’s total weight.

Do you use your trailer for personal and recreational reasons? Then you may still be curious about what kind of insurance can cover you. Northeast – MetroWest Insurance offers recreational vehicle insurance to ensure that the vehicles on your trailer are insured.

• Inspect the coupler.

The coupler is what connects your trailer to the tow vehicle. Make sure it’s secure and not damaged in any way. Couplers typically have a lever to indicate your ball is set correctly into the coupler and locked. It is a good idea to place the coupler onto the ball a couple of times to test the lever locking and releasing function before loading your trailer. 

• Check the frame.

Inspect the frame of your trailer for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any cracks or breaks, have the trailer inspected by a professional before using it again.

• Inspect the wheels and axles.

Make sure the wheels are in good condition and not cracked or damaged. Also, check the axles for any signs of wear or damage. 

• Load up and hit the road!

After your trailer pre-season check-up is complete, you’re ready to hit the road for your next adventure. Be sure to enjoy the journey and always drive safely.

Trailer insurance requirements vary by state. Are you interested in more details about insurance for your personal or commercial trailer? Then Northeast-MetroWest can help. Contact one of our insurance representatives.