It is not uncommon for trailers that are well-maintained to provide dependable service for 25 years or more. That requires a preventive maintenance program suited to your type of trucking, and regular checks of the running gear, lighting, cargo securement fixtures, doors and other components for physical damage and signs of small problems that could grow into big, expensive ones on the road.
The trucking industry’s long-term objective is a 10-year maintenance-free trailer, according to Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems. Transcraft, Wabash and many other trailer makers are able to offer longer warranties because component manufacturers are developing products that extend maintenance intervals. One such product is a unitized wheel end that eliminates seal leaks and the damage oil does to brake linings – a major trailer maintenance problem.
Keeping your trailer’s brakes in peak operating condition, so that each one does part of the braking, is the best way to minimize stopping distances and avoid penalties during roadside inspections. S-cam brakes and automatic slack adjusters should be lubricated according to the manufacturers’ recommended service interval.
Listen for air leaks in the brake system, and check to see that air lines are not damaged. Check for cracked drums, missing or broken shoes, and shoes soaked with grease, brake fluid or oil. Also, keep an eye open for damaged brake chambers and replace them as needed. Glad hands and rubber seals should be checked for signs of damage and wear.
Brake shoes should be relined or replaced with remanufactured shoes when they wear down to 1/4-inch at their thinnest point. Linings should be replaced on both sides of an axle at the same time to avoid brake pull. Shoe return springs should also be replaced when you reline.
Brake drums should be inspected periodically for damage and excessive wear. Drums can be resurfaced to remove shallow grooves and moderate heat checking, but look for the cause of the damage and correct the root problem before you remount. Drums with deep, wide cracks should be replaced.
Suspension trouble signs
Whether you pull a van or flatbed, the most important item to inspect regularly is the suspension, according to Great Dane Trailers. The suspension is most prone to failure if it’s not properly maintained, says the trailer manufacturer. Suspension problems are the second most common category of defects cited by roadside inspectors, after brakes.
