Most roadside trailer breakdowns start with something you could have spotted in the driveway. A walk around the trailer before you leave takes about 15 minutes and can save you a ruined weekend. Here’s what we check, in the order we check it.
Tires
Trailer tires usually age out before they wear out, so look at more than the tread.
Set the pressure cold, to the figure on the tire sidewall or the trailer’s placard.
Look for cracks in the sidewall, bulges and uneven wear.
Check the date code: the last four digits of the DOT number show the week and year it was made. If your tires are more than about five years old, have them checked.
Make sure the spare is inflated and you have a jack and a lug wrench that fit.
Check the lug nuts. On new or recently fitted wheels, re-tighten them after the first 50 miles.
Wheel bearings and hubs
Jack up each wheel and spin it. It should turn smoothly and quietly. Grab the tire at the top and bottom and rock it: any clunk or play means the bearings need attention. Look for grease on the inside of the wheel, which points to a leaking seal.
Brakes and controller
Plug in and make sure your brake controller sees the trailer.
Set the gain for the load you’re carrying.
Test the brakes at walking speed in a parking lot.
Check the breakaway battery is charged, and that the cable is attached to the tow vehicle.
Lights and wiring
With a helper, test the running lights, brake lights and both turn signals. Make sure the plug is fully seated and the cable has enough slack to turn without dragging on the road.
Hitch, coupler and safety chains
The ball size matches the size stamped on the coupler.
The coupler latch is closed and pinned.
Safety chains are crossed under the tongue, with enough slack to turn but not to drag.
The tongue jack is fully raised and the foot is stowed.
Load
Aim for about 10 to 15 percent of the trailer’s total weight on the tongue. Too little and the trailer can sway; too much and the truck’s steering gets light. Keep heavy items low and over the axles, strap everything down, and stay within the trailer’s rated weight on the VIN plate.
First stop rule
Pull over after the first 15 to 30 minutes. Walk around the trailer, feel each hub with the back of your hand, check the straps and look at the tires. Most problems show up early.
Quick checklist
Tire pressure, condition and age, plus the spare
Lug nuts tight
Bearings smooth with no play
Brakes working and controller set
Breakaway battery charged
All lights working
Coupler latched and pinned
Safety chains crossed
Load balanced and strapped
Need a hand?
Found something you’re not sure about? Bring the trailer in. Same-day service is available, and most repairs are done in 1–2 days. Request a repair or call 772-924-7299.
General advice only. Check your trailer’s labels and manuals, or ask us before ordering or repairing.
