How likely is it that a boat trailer breakdown could leave you roadside? After a spring like we’ve had this year, everyone is itching to get out on the water this summer. Fortunately, some may not make it to their marine escape. Every year, our boat trailer repair service professionals handle hundreds of calls, responding to roadside breakdown issues. Most of the top offenders could have been avoided with a quick visual inspection and routine maintenance care. What are the most common issues that could leave you stuck roadside on a busy highway?
Watch Out for these Common Boat Trailer Issues
- Tire troubles
Tire issues cause the vast majority of roadside issues we see at Ainsworth. Underinflated tires won’t make it far, running hot and wearing down quickly, resulting in blowouts. The pros at our trailer repair shop know a quick check with a tire gauge is an easy way to avoid low tire pressure troubles. Tires that have sat all winter are also a common issue, and more likely to blow than the tires on a frequently used trailer. Exposure to the elements destroys tires. Those with cracks and dry rot should be rapidly replaced. A spare tire is also essential, helping you make it to your destination and avoid a costly flatbed tow. - Wheel bearing and hub issues
The need for repacking/replacing wheel bearings depends on trailer use. To avoid the need for trailer bearing repair, check them at the start of each season. Bearings that are hot to the touch after driving several miles are on the verge of failure. Left unattended, they can get so hot they melt the hub. Hot bearings also cause cold water to be drawn into bearings, particularly those lacking grease. Though tempting to procrastinate, bearing maintenance is more easily attended in a garage or shop than on the side of the road, so addressing this in advance is a wise move. - Axle problems
Boat trailers are infamous for rusty axles and U-bolts. It is essential to check your boat trailer for rusty components each time you use it. After you’ve launched, when the entire trailer is visible, is a prime opportunity. Trailer axle repair is much easier to manage than accident damage. All it takes is a pothole hit at just the wrong angle to break a rusty axle, send your trailer out of control, and cause an accident. - Tow vehicle breakdown
Failure to maintain tow vehicles is another common cause of roadside breakdowns. Overheating in hot weather is especially common. Check your oil and coolant levels prior to departure, examining hoses for softness and bulging. Most importantly, know surpass the tow limits of your vehicle, keeping to 85% of rated capacity.
Get Back on the Road Fast
Whether you need mobile trailer repair services, or in-shop preventive maintenance, our trailer repair professionals can get you back on the road fast, providing fast, quality repairs in hours, not days. Our A+ BBB rated services are trusted by drivers nationwide, from local boating hobbyists to experienced fleet managers.
Don’t let neglected trailer maintenance ruin a day on the water. Get fast, affordable maintenance and repair. Contact Ainsworth Trailer Repair to schedule service in one of our trailer repair “express lanes” today.
