Trailers are the backbone of modern logistics, moving goods reliably from coast to coast and across borders. Nonetheless, just like any other mechanical equipment, they eventually wear out, develop mechanical problems, and ultimately break down. Consequently, trailer repairs are necessary to maintain optimal conditions required during their operational life.
These trailers carry out some serious amount of heavy lifting and if not taken good care of, they may eventually run down completely. Taking good care of your equipment means choosing the right trailer for the job, the best route, and of course, keeping an eye on the typical hauling issues that may happen to it.
In this post, we will look at some of typical problems you are likely to encounter with your trailer and prescribe some remedies to counter them.
Some Common Repair Issues in Trailers
You will encounter some commonly occurring repair issues with trailer. While these are not universal, at least several of them will cut across several types of trailers. They include:
- Tire maintenance and repairs - Includes replacement, retreading and re-grooving.
- Brake maintenance and repairs - Brake alignment, pad, and brake drum replacement are always on top of the bucket list.
- Body component repairs - Replacement and straightening of bumpers, flaps, and other body parts are some of the processes involved.
- Installation, replacement, and repair of the lift gate.
- Door and panel maintenance – The process entails replacement and repair of handles, rolling doors, and curtains.
- Suspension system maintenance – This undertaking includes repair and replacement of rolling gears, suspension valve replacements, cushion suspensions, and many more.
- Hydraulic system maintenance – The process involves refilling hydraulic fluids, replacing valves, and cleaning the system.
- Pneumatic system maintenance – The process entails replacement of hoses, valves, and linings.
- Refrigeration system maintenance and repairs.
- Electrical components maintenance – The process engulfs replacement and repairs of sockets, lights, lamps, and waterproofing components.
So How Do You Keep Your Trailer Well-Maintained?
Do not skip your date with the repair shop. The top recommendation to keep your mechanical equipment functioning, as it should is preventive maintenance. This is true for diesel pickups as it is for the heavy trailer machines we use for our logistics. Preventive maintenance will contribute to overall good health of vehicle systems and avoid frequent breakdown that results from poor trailer repair.
Moving heavy loads across divergent terrain, bumpy roads, and over long distances puts a lot of pressure on any trailer and its equipment. Failure to catch mechanical problems before they become endemic spells doom for your trailer, and it bound to develop serious hauling issues. Proper maintenance involves following a well-planned preventive schedule.
Stay Ahead of your Maintenance Schedule
While you can stick to a normal maintenance schedule, it is recommended to use a proactive approach to maintenance. It can be a model based on truck usage, mileage, and the age of the trailer. Usually, the older the equipment, the more frequent the need for inspection and repair.
Such a schedule could benefit immensely from modern data systems such as trailer telematics. You could use a checklist such as the one below in your maintenance undertakings:
- Brake system
- Tires
- Bearings, mounts, and suspensions
- Fuel system
- Frame and undercarriage
- Fluid levels
- Interior and exterior lights
- Mounts and joints
- Heat and AC systems
- Safety belts and horns
For more information on trailers, contact us.
