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Protecting Your Investment: A Guide to Horse Trailer Maintenance

Feb. 14 2023 Ownership Tips By National Trailer Source

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Protecting Your Investment: A Guide to Horse Trailer Maintenance  
 
As a horse owner, you understand the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for your equine companion. One of the most critical components of this environment is the horse trailer. Whether you use it for trips to shows and events or to transport your horse to and from the barn, your horse trailer is an investment that deserves proper care and maintenance.  

In this guide, we'll cover the steps for protecting your investment and ensuring that your horse trailer remains in top condition for years to come. We'll teach you everything you need to know about horse trailer maintenance, from regular inspections to preventative maintenance. If you ever have questions about how to best maintain your trailer, please don’t hesitate to swing by a National Trailer Source Location. Our service center team is always happy to assist you in learning more about the upkeep specific to your year, make and model of trailer. So, let's take the first step towards protecting your investment and ensuring your horse's safety on the road! 
 
Regular Inspections 
 
Regular inspections are an essential part of horse trailer maintenance, as they help identify potential issues before they become bigger problems. During these inspections, it is important to check the tires, brakes, lights, and suspension to ensure that they are functioning properly and are in good working condition. 


  • Tires should be checked for proper inflation, tread wear, and any signs of damage or uneven wear.
  • Brakes should be inspected for proper functioning, including checking for leaks and ensuring that they are properly adjusted.
  • Lights should be checked to make sure that they are functioning properly and that they are clean and free of any cracks or damage. 
  • The suspension should also be inspected, including the shocks and springs, to ensure that they are properly lubricated and tightened. 

The frequency of these inspections will depend on the usage of the trailer and the conditions under which it is used. It is recommended to perform a pre-trip before each trip to ensure everything is functioning properly. While you can perform some inspections on your own, it is also important to have a professional inspection performed periodically to ensure that everything is in good working order. Professional inspections can help identify any issues that you may have missed and can help extend the lifespan of your horse trailer. 


Preventative Maintenance  


Preventative maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and safety of your horse trailer. This type of maintenance involves regularly performing tasks such as cleaning and lubricating the trailer, checking and tightening hardware, and replacing worn parts. 


  • Cleaning and lubricating: Keeping your horse trailer clean and well-lubricated can help prevent rust, corrosion, and other types of damage. This can be achieved through regular washing, and waxing, as well as applying a protective coating to exposed metal surfaces. 
  • Checking and tightening hardware: Over time, hardware can loosen, become damaged, or even fall off. During preventative maintenance, you should inspect all the hardware on your horse trailer, including hinges, latches, and bolts, and tighten or replace any components that are showing signs of wear. 
  • Replacing worn parts: Certain parts of your horse trailer will experience more wear and tear than others. You should inspect these parts and replace them if necessary. This includes items such as tires, brakes, lights, and suspension components. 

By performing these tasks on a regular basis, you can prevent small issues from becoming bigger, more expensive problems down the road. The benefits of preventative maintenance are numerous, including improved performance, increased safety, and an extended lifespan. It's important to have a maintenance schedule in place, to ensure that all preventative tasks are performed in a timely and consistent manner. This will help to keep your horse trailer in top condition, providing you with peace of mind and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns. 


At National Trailer Source, we understand the importance of protecting your investment and maintaining your horse trailer in good working condition. Our team of experts offers a range of services designed to help you keep your trailer in top condition, from regular inspections to comprehensive maintenance programs. We encourage you to take the first step towards protecting your horse trailer, by scheduling a service appointment today. Our team is ready to assist you with all your horse trailer maintenance needs, and to help you ensure that your trailer is in good working order as you head down the road.