In a rush to head off to your next delivery? It can be tempting to side-step trailer maintenance needs to try and arrive at your end destination a little sooner. However, this short-sighted thinking can quickly backfire, leaving you stuck roadside and well behind schedule. Before setting off on your next run, don’t overlook these three critical areas of trailer maintenance.
The Braking System
Don’t let braking system issues bring your attempted delivery to a rapid halt. Test your braking system regularly. This should include a routine, pre-trip inspection of the air pressure system. You should also periodically check to make sure your trailer brakes aren’t out of adjustment. If you notice your stopping distances are stretching out, have your trailer brakes serviced immediately. Keep an eye on components that routinely wear, such as brake drums, shoes, and springs, replacing any items that have worn out before your next haul. Once you’ve accomplished these tasks and you’re ready to leave, never take off before releasing the brakes. This practice can cause unnecessary wear-and-tear on brake system components, resulting in the need for more frequent trailer brake parts replacement.
Tires
Tires keep your tractor trailer tethered to the road. Ensuring your tires are in good condition and properly inflated before each trip is essential to their ability to accomplish this task. Before setting out each day, check the air pressure in each tire with a calibrated gauge, not a thumper. Visually inspect tires for damage and wear, replacing any that look suspect. Ensure tread depth meets Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. Tire tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch in major grooves, and remember, this measurement should not be taken from wear indicators.
The Lighting & Electrical System
You know when you’re stopping, but the driver behind you might not. To avoid an auto accident ruining your day, as with your braking system and tires, be sure to perform a careful inspection of your trailer’s electrical system wires. Check regularly for damage, proper support, and protection. Replace damaged wires immediately and safeguard perforations with rubber grommets. To lessen the likelihood of deterioration, be sure to rinse equipment as often as possible, particularly the underside of your trailer. De-icing chemicals are often the culprit of damage to lighting system electrical connections and wires.
Top owner-operators know keeping their trailer in good shape ensures timely deliveries, lowers maintenance costs and safeguards the lives of themselves and others on the road. Deliver goods quickly and safely with a smoothly running rig. Tackle FHWA inspections and maintenance needs, getting back on the road fast with the help of Ainsworth Trailer Repair today.
