You can find a variety of aluminum trailers at Otter Lake Trailers B.C. Whatever hitch type you choose, it is essential to remember that every trailer requires upkeep. Failing to take care of your trailer will deplete its lifespan, resulting in corrosion and excessive wear and tear. If you want to get the most out of your trailer purchase, you must understand the maintenance needs of whichever trailer you purchase.

4 Tips for Maintaining Your Millroad Aluminum Trailer

Aluminum trailers are susceptible to weather damage despite being capable pieces of equipment. Because the trailers are vulnerable, it is vital to perform routine maintenance to keep them in tip-top shape. At a minimum, every aluminum trailer owner should follow four tips.

1. Grease Wheel Bearings

Too many trailer owners need to remember to lubricate trailer wheel bearings. Lubrication is vital to reducing friction, limiting resistance, and avoiding excess heat buildup. 

Applying lubricant to the wheel bearings is straightforward. First, remove the caps on the wheels and expose the bearings. Second, apply fresh grease using a grease gun or syringe filled with marine-grade grease. 

2. Inspect It for Damage

Regardless of the trailer types you own, routine inspections are essential to their longevity. Most manufacturers recommend washing a trailer once every four weeks, depending on use. You can use the same schedule for inspections.

After cleaning and drying the trailer, walk around it and look over every component and area. Get underneath the trailer to access axles and connections. Pay special attention to more vulnerable parts, such as the frame, axles, wiring, and runners. 

If you spot cracks or other signs of damage, take the trailer to a local dealer to get it fixed. Leaving damage for a later date will only make the situation worse.

3. Clean It Thoroughly

Before you clean your trailer, you want to collect your tools and cleaning supplies. You need a soft-bristle brush, bucket, cleaning solution (specific for an aluminum trailer), hose, towels (microfibre), and protective gear (gloves, safety glasses, and clothing).

Start by rinsing the trailer with the hose. You want to remove as much of the standing dirt and debris as possible. Once rinsed, mix a batch of cleaning solution in your bucket and apply it all over the trailer with the soft bristle brush. Start at the top of the trailer and work your way down into the grooves and crevices. After scrubbing the trailer, rinse it again to clear away the cleaning solution. Finally, use the microfiber towels to dry the entire trailer.

When finished, inspect the trailer. Ensure you eliminate all dirt and debris. If you missed any areas, re-soak the area and re-apply the cleaning solution. Leaving grime on your trailer can lead to damage like corrosion.

4. Avoid Corrosion

Custom aluminum trailers and standard floor models are all susceptible to corrosion because of exposure to the elements and road salt and muck. Frequent washes are necessary to remove dirt, salt, and other materials that can damage the trailer’s surface. 

Correctly maintaining your trailer — lubrication, washing, maintaining tire pressure — contributes to the overall health of the equipment. You can avoid corrosion by keeping a maintenance schedule and sticking to it. 

Find Your Aluminum Trailer Today

Are you in the market for a new aluminum trailer? Check out Otter Lake Trailers in Armstrong, British Columbia, for a large selection of Millroad trailers. The retailer is a staple in trailer sales and can help you find the right setup for your professional or recreational needs. You will find everything from simple bumper-hitch models to more complex and sophisticated gooseneck options.