Cargo Trailer Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your cargo trailer can extend its life and reduce the money you spend on repairs and parts replacements. While there are some tasks you should leave to a professional, there are plenty of simple maintenance tasks you can do on your own. We've created the following beginner's guide to cargo trailer maintenance to help you keep your cargo trailer looking and running like new. If you have any questions or want to look at cargo trailers for sale, visit Victory Custom Trailers. We are located in Metamora, Michigan. We also proudly serve those in Detroit and Flint, Michigan.

Before You Begin

It's important that you consult your cargo trailer's owner's manual before you engage in any maintenance tasks. We are happy to provide general tips and advice, but that resource will tell you what your model specifically needs (such as recommended products or a maintenance schedule).

The Tires

Before you take a trip, you'll want to inspect a few elements of your cargo trailer's tires. First, check that the tires are inflated to the right air pressure. Use tire pressure gauge when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading. Second, measure the tread levels. These get naturally worn down and will eventually need to be replaced. Check that you still have enough tread according to your owner's manual. Third, look for signs of general rot and damage.

The Deck

Try to keep your deck clean in between trips. Built-up debris and moisture can cause damage over time. Depending on your cargo trailer's deck material, you may need to do extra maintenance tasks. A wooden deck, for example, may need to be stained every so often. A metal deck may need to be monitored for oxidation. Checking the deck frequently can help you catch issues when they first crop up, allowing you to address them before they become bigger issues.

Before a Trip

There are also some maintenance checks you'll want to make before you hit the road. First, test your brakes and your lights to ensure they are working properly. Second, check that the cargo weight is level. If you put too much weight in one area, it can make towing much harder.

You can also install a weight distribution trailer hitch to make your trips easier. This accessory can automatically level out your trailer so you won't have to.

Regular Cargo Trailer Maintenance Checks

Engaging in proactive and preventative maintenance for your cargo trailer can help extend the time between service department visits, but eventually, you will need to take your cargo trailer to a trained technician. They can provide more thorough checks of the various aspects of your cargo trailer. Aim for visiting a professional at least once a year, but ideally every six months.

These checks are important for a few reasons. First, they can help you catch underlying issues sooner. The longer they go undiscovered, the more damage they can do and the more costly the repairs might be. Second, operating a cargo trailer that has an issue can be a safety threat for yourself and those on the road. Get your cargo trailer checked out to ensure it's ready for your trip!

We hope you found these tips helpful! If you've encountered a maintenance task that requires professional help, visit the service department at Victory Custom Trailers. We can get your cargo trailer repaired and ready to go in no time. We also offer custom trailers for sale if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, you'll find it with us!