- How To
Winter can be tough on trailers. Cold temperatures, moisture, and road salt take a toll, causing wear and tear if left unchecked. To keep your trailer safe and in good working order, regular maintenance is a must. Here's a practical guide to help you care for your trailer during the colder months, focusing on the importance of greasing wheel bearings and spotting potential damage early.
Grease Wheel Bearings Regularly
Winter roads are often wet and treated with salt, which can wear down the integrity of your trailer’s wheel bearings. Exposure and rust decreases the lifespan of your bearings, leading to costly repairs or even wheel failure. Clean and add grease to your bearings every six months, or 6,000 miles. A full repacking of your trailer bearings and greasing the axles should happen every 12 months or 12,000 miles. To help the new grease stay coated on your bearings, move your trailer regularly, even if that just means driving around the neighborhood once a week.
If you’re not sure how to repack your wheel bearings, schedule a service appointment with TrailersPlus. We have over 80 locations across the country, so we’re always nearby to help. If you prefer a self-repair option, use a high-quality grease suitable for your trailer type. Avoid mixing lithium, calcium, sodium, or barium-complex greases, as they may not be compatible. Before switching to a different type of grease, make sure all traces of the previous grease are completely removed.
Place a small amount of grease, about the size of a half-dollar, in your palm. Press the wide end of the bearing into the grease, working it into the rollers. Rotate the bearing and repeat until it's fully packed. Before reinstalling, spread a thin layer of grease on the bearing cup.
If you don't have Dexter E-Z lube bearings, here are instructions for manually greasing your trailer bearings.
Greasing your wheel bearings throughout the cold months will keep your wheels spinning smoothly year round.
Regularly Inspect for Damage
Snow, ice, and road debris can cause minor damage that’s easy to overlook or miss. Left unattended, small cracks or corrosion spots can worsen and compromise the structural integrity of your trailer. Road salts are the leading cause to surface rust on trailers, which is not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. Wash and dry your trailer often if you live in an area where roads are plowed or salted regularly. Even if you don’t live in an area prone to snowfall, cleaning your trailer often is a good habit that could prevent rust and corrosion from other factors.
Inspect key areas of your trailer like the frame, tires, lights, and wiring. Look for any signs of rust, cracks, or wear. Bringing your trailer in for repair as soon as you notice these issues will help you stay ahead of schedule for spring and avoid long-term problems that happen if not addressed in a timely manner.
Protect Your Tires
Winter temperatures cause tire pressure to fluctuate, which can lead to uneven wear or blowouts if not monitored. Start by inflating them to the maximum pressure indicated on the sidewall to minimize the risk of flat spots and maintain their structural integrity. If you can, reposition the trailer from time to time to distribute the weight across different parts of the tires.
Take Care of Your Battery
Winter months can slow business and personal projects, so if your trailer will sit idle for extended periods, taking extra steps to maintain your battery will pay off in the long run. Remove the battery from its connection to eliminate the risk of power drain or electrical problems. Place the battery in a stable, temperature-controlled environment that is cool and dry to avoid damage from extreme conditions.
To keep the battery in optimal condition during storage, use a battery maintainer or tender. These tools deliver a steady, minimal charge to prevent depletion while avoiding overcharging. This simple step ensures the battery stays in good shape and is ready for use when it's time to get back on the road.
Winter Maintenance Pays Off
A well-maintained trailer is not only safer but also more cost-effective to own. By prioritizing key tasks like greasing wheel bearings, inspecting regularly for damage, and protecting your tires and battery, you can keep your trailer in optimal condition throughout the winter season.
Investing time in regular maintenance now will save you money and stress later. Still not sure where to start? Schedule a service appointment with your local TrailersPlus. We will perform a 40-point safety inspection to carefully examine your trailer and identify potential issues.
