There’s nothing quite like the feeling of hitching up a brand-new trailer for the first time. Whether it’s a gleaming American Hauler enclosed trailer for your business, a rugged Bwise dump trailer for the job site, or a new Loadrite boat trailer for your weekend adventures, you’ve made a significant investment in a high-quality piece of equipment.

Like any major purchase, that new trailer from Brooks Factory Direct Trailers needs consistent care to perform safely, maintain its value, and provide years of reliable service. As we head into the fall here in New York, it’s the perfect time to establish a maintenance routine. Here’s a guide from our service experts in Ontario and Oswego to help you protect your investment from day one.

The Ultimate New Trailer Maintenance Checklist

Maintaining a trailer isn’t just about fixing what’s broken; it’s about preventing problems before they start. This is true for every brand we carry, from a CAM Superline heavy equipment hauler to a lightweight Karavan utility trailer.

1. Tires, Wheels, and Lug Nuts: Your Foundation Your trailer’s tires are its only connection to the road.

• Tire Pressure (PSI): Check the pressure before every trip when the tires are cold. Underinflated tires are a leading cause of blowouts and cause excessive, uneven wear.
• Lug Nut Torque: After the first 25-50 miles with a new trailer, it is critical to re-torque your lug nuts. They can settle and loosen slightly. Check them periodically thereafter.
• Visual Inspection: Look for cracks, cuts, or unusual wear patterns. This applies to the high-performance Nitto Trailers tires just as much as any other brand.

2. Hubs and Bearings: The Heart of the Roll The bearings allow your wheels to spin freely. Neglecting them is one of the most common and costly mistakes. A seized bearing can destroy a hub and spindle, leaving you stranded. On trailers from manufacturers like Forest River and Cross Country, which are built for the long haul, keeping bearings properly greased is non-negotiable. We recommend having them professionally inspected and repacked annually.

3. Brakes and Suspension: Your Control System Your trailer’s brakes are a critical safety component.

• Brake Check: If you have electric brakes, test your controller and the trailer’s breakaway system before each trip. For hydraulic surge brakes, check fluid levels and lines for leaks.
• Suspension: Visually inspect the leaf springs, hangers, and shackles on your Bri-Mar or ITI Cargo trailer. Look for any cracks or signs of excessive wear that could compromise handling.

4. Lights and Electrical: See and Be Seen Faulty wiring is not only illegal but also incredibly dangerous.

• Function Test: Before every tow, perform a quick walk-around to test your brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
• Connector Care: Keep the 7-pin or 4-pin connector clean. A small amount of dielectric grease can prevent corrosion that leads to flickering lights. This simple step is key for enclosed trailers from E-Z Hauler, Haul About, and Mission Trailers that often have extensive lighting systems.

5. Frame, Deck, and Body: The Backbone Corrosion is the enemy of any trailer.

• Wash Regularly: Keep your trailer clean, especially after exposure to road salt in the winter. Washing protects the finish and allows you to spot potential issues.
• Inspect Welds: Periodically check the frame and tongue for any stress cracks, especially around major weld points.
• Deck Health: If you have a wood deck, check for rot or loose boards. For enclosed trailers, inspect roof seals and seams to prevent leaks.

Fall Care & Winter Preparation

As the busy season winds down, don’t just unhitch your trailer and forget about it until spring. Now is the ideal time to bring it in for service. A thorough cleaning and a full safety inspection before winter storage will prevent small issues from becoming major problems over the cold months.

Trust the Professionals at Brooks

At Brooks Factory Direct Trailers, we are experts in the brands we sell. Our service centers in Ontario and Oswego are staffed by experienced technicians who know exactly what your trailer needs to stay in peak condition. By following these maintenance steps and scheduling an annual professional service, you ensure your new trailer remains a reliable and valuable asset for years to come.

Protect your investment. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and let our team give you the ultimate peace of mind on the road.