you’ve seen refugees from junkyards masquerading as toy trailers careening
down the highway behind some big SUV. Hauling a deathtrap behind you and
compromising the safety of other motorists as well as yourselves is simply
irresponsible. During the summer season, these trailers often carry boats and are
submerged in water regularly. What do you think happens to the wheel bearing
lubricant? How about the wiring and lighting, not to mention the effects of rust
on the frame, suspension, and brakes of these trailers? At the end of the season,
what do most people do? They put the trailer away until the next season. No
maintenance, no upkeep, and no repairs. The following season, they haul it out,
plop their toy on it, and careen down the road in front of some family taking a
Sunday drive. A message to boaters and personal watercraft owners: Take care of
your trailers, please. Get your trailer inspected before hauling it down the
highway.
A typical trailer inspection includes the following:
- Check the wiring for cracked or chafed insulation, poor electrical connections,
or corroded light sockets. - Check over the frame for compromised integrity from rust.
- Check tires and wheels for safety.
- Check the brakes.
- Make sure all the lights work: turn signals, brakes, and running lights.
- Inspect the wheel bearings and axles for wear or lack of lubrication. Make sure
the wheel bearings have good seals and are adjusted properly. - If the trailer has a wooden floor, make sure all floorboards are in good shape.
Rotted or broken floorboards can cause your payload to shift in transit and fall
off the trailer. An ugly scene indeed, especially for the guy following in the
car behind you.
As you can see, hot outside temperatures can do serious damage to your car
and cost you a lot in terms of money, time, aggravation, and compromised safety.
The good news? Now you know how to avoid these problems and get the most
mileage out of your car, with peace of mind and without having to take on a
second job.