Getting out and seeing the majestic splendor of nature.
Relaxing beside the campfire with your sweetie.
Getting to the cottage to try out those new water skis you got for Christmas.
The list is endless.
And the list of problems you can encounter just getting there can be endless as well.
Bearings can seize up. Lights won't work. Springs break. Tires go flat. Tires go flat and blow up. Hitches come disconnected. Loads shift. The list goes on.........
But if you're prepared before you start your trip, the only thing you should have to worry about is fitting into your swimsuit!
Too many just hook up the trailer, jump in the land yacht and go. These are the ones you see broke down on the side of the highway.
Professional transport drivers do a Pre-Trip Inspection every day on their equipment. You should too. Especially if it has been sitting all winter.
TRAILERS
Walk around the trailer and note it's overall condition.
Check the tires for worn spots, cracked sidewalls and any bulging. Replace any bad tires. They can be the biggest pain if not in good shape.
Check the spare for cracks as well. Check and adjust air pressure. Check the wheel nuts for tightness.
If your trailer has brakes, do they work? Electrical brakes use hockey puck sized magnets to move the shoes. They can burn out. Hydraulic surge brakes use springs and a piston to operate. They work similar to car brakes and the fluid must be checked.
Check the wheel bearings. They spin at an incredible speed and must be in good condition. They also require a full hub of grease to survive. Replace any that show signs of wear or rust.
Check the springs and hanger brackets. The U-bolts that hold the springs to the axle should be tight.
Check the hitch for worn or bent parts. If the hitch is bent, it might be a good idea to replace it. Nothing can be more embarrassing than having the trailer come off and bounce around behind your car!
Check the sizes of the hitch and the ball on the tow vehicle. Make sure they match! Check the safety chains for worn or stretched links or hooks.
Hook up the lights and check for the correct operation of the turn signals. It may sound silly, but I've seen more than a few trailers with the turn signals reversed! Replace anything that doesn't work.
Is the licence plate secure (and up to date). If it's been dragging on the ground and is bent, consider moving it to a better location.
Not mechanically inclined? Take it to your local garage, trusted neighbour or RV dealer.
