Looking for ways to increase vehicle performance and boost your bottom line? The answer may be right under your trailer. Trailer axle repair and maintenance in Denver can prevent a plethora of pitfalls…
More than Meets the Eye
Oftentimes, it’s not beams that require the most maintenance, but the components attached. If you’re overlooking ‘the small stuff,’ you could be in for trailer trouble. All axle components need to be regularly inspected for wear, damage, and alignment each 6-12 months to protect the safety and efficiency of your vehicle. One of the main areas of concern here involves proper alignment, which causes an array of issues. A main area of concern, this involves more than steer axle positioning. For proper alignment, both the tractor and trailer units should be aligned with each other to ensure optimal performance.
Don’t Fall Victim to these Pitfalls of Neglected Trailer Axle Maintenance:
- Rapid Tire Wear
If you’re suffering rapid or irregular tire wear, you’re watching income go up in smoke with the frequent replacement of tires. And this is no small thing, with the cost of tires increasing with the cost of petroleum. - Diminished Fuel Economy
Front and rear axle misalignment, or misalignment between the trailer/tractor, can cause ‘dog tracking’ (rear end is offset from the front). This increases rolling resistance, destroying fuel economy and putting unnecessary strain on the motor as the truck must operate at a higher RPM to compensate for added trailer drag. - Reduced Stability
Worn tires, a byproduct of poor axle alignment, cause a loss of steering control on low-friction surfaces like wet pavement, affecting the driver’s ability to maneuver the vehicle. Any loss in driver control that negatively affects stability not only increases operating costs but safety risk and the likelihood of accident. - Driver Discomfort
Higher than normal vibration levels in the steering wheel and driver’s seat resulting from misalignment can create an uncomfortable ride, leading to muscular fatigue and stress.
When was the last time you had your axles inspected? Prevent the potential pitfalls of neglected trailer axle maintenance with regular attention every 6-12 months from a mechanical pro who knows the ins and outs of fleet trailer issues. Schedule an appointment for the ‘Express Lanes’ at Ainsworth Trailer Repair today.
