Summer is the season of travel, adventure, and outdoor projects. Whether you’re heading to a motorsport event, embarking on a family camping trip, or hauling heavy equipment for summer jobs, ensuring your trailer is in top shape is essential for safety, performance, and peace of mind. Wright-Way Trailers, based in Hiawatha, IA, offers both expert maintenance services and a wide inventory of trailers to meet your seasonal needs. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive trailer maintenance checklist to help you prep for safe and successful summer travel.
1. Tires: Inspect, Inflate, and Replace
Check Tread Depth
Worn tires are a major hazard on the road. Make sure your tires have adequate tread depth (at least 4/32 inch for safe towing) and no uneven wear.
Inflate to Proper Pressure
Summer heat can affect tire pressure. Inflate your trailer tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI and check for signs of dry rot or cracking.
Tighten Lug Nuts
Ensure all lug nuts are torqued to the specified levels to prevent wheel detachment.
2. Brakes and Bearings
Test Brake System
Make sure electric or hydraulic brakes are functioning properly. Brake pads, drums, and rotors should be inspected for wear or damage.
Grease Bearings
Bearings should be cleaned, inspected, and greased to prevent overheating and failure on long drives.
3. Lights and Electrical Systems
Test All Lighting
Inspect brake lights, turn signals, tail lights, and marker lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs or damaged wiring.
Check Wiring Connections
Verify all electrical connections are secure, clean, and corrosion-free. Use dielectric grease for added protection.
Battery Check (if equipped)
If your trailer has an onboard battery (e.g., for a breakaway system), ensure it’s fully charged and holds a charge.
4. Hitch and Coupling Devices
Inspect the Hitch
Check your ball mount, coupler, and safety chains for rust, damage, and wear. Make sure the hitch size matches the tow vehicle.
Grease the Coupler
Apply lubricant to the coupler latch to ensure smooth connection and disconnection.
Safety Chains
Ensure chains are crossed under the coupler and properly attached. Check for weak links or cracks.
5. Frame and Undercarriage
Inspect for Rust and Cracks
Check the frame, axle, and undercarriage for signs of rust, corrosion, or metal fatigue—especially if your trailer is exposed to road salt during winter.
Tighten Bolts and Fasteners
Loose bolts can compromise structural integrity. Make sure everything is torqued to the proper spec.
Clean and Touch-Up Paint
Remove built-up grime, then touch up paint to help protect against further rusting.
6. Suspension and Axle Inspection
Check Springs and Shackles
Inspect leaf springs, shackles, and hangers for wear or breakage. Look for any signs of sagging or misalignment.
Inspect Axles
Ensure axles are straight and free of bends or damage. Uneven tire wear may indicate alignment issues.
7. Interior and Cargo Security (Enclosed Trailers)
Secure Shelving and Storage
Make sure all interior storage compartments, shelving, and tools are securely fastened.
Check Doors and Latches
Test all door hinges, locks, and latches to ensure smooth operation and proper closure.
Weather Seals
Examine door seals and gaskets to make sure they’re not cracked or leaking.
8. Flooring and Decking
Clean and Inspect Deck
Remove debris and check for soft spots or rot in wooden floors, especially after winter moisture exposure.
Apply Protective Coating
Consider reapplying a protective sealant or non-slip coating to extend the floor's lifespan.
9. Breakaway System (for Braked Trailers)
Test Functionality
Ensure that the breakaway system activates the trailer brakes when the pin is pulled.
Check Battery Health
Charge or replace the breakaway battery if it doesn’t hold a charge.
10. Documentation and Emergency Gear
Keep Registration and Insurance Current
Ensure you have up-to-date paperwork for the trailer.
Stock Emergency Supplies
Carry a spare tire, jack, tire iron, emergency triangles, and a fire extinguisher in your trailer or tow vehicle.
Wright-Way Trailers: Your Maintenance Partner
Professional Trailer Service
Wright-Way’s experienced technicians offer full-service maintenance and inspections tailored to all trailer types—including enclosed, dump, equipment, and utility trailers.
Parts Department
From brake pads to replacement tires and lighting kits, Wright-Way stocks all the essential parts you need for DIY fixes or upgrades.
Scheduling and Support
Make an appointment easily with their service department for a full summer trailer checkup at:
Wright-Way Trailers
1100 N Center Point Rd, Hiawatha, IA 52233
📞 (319) 393-4544
📧 nate@wrightwaytrailers.com
Conclusion
Taking the time to properly inspect and maintain your trailer before summer travel can save you time, money, and stress down the road. With this checklist and the expert help from Wright-Way Trailers, you'll be ready to haul safely and confidently through Iowa’s summer heat. Whether you're transporting gear or heading out for recreation, peace of mind starts with preparation.