Trailer Maintenance for Dummies?

[Norboo]

I never worked on a trailer. I have 2012 ShoreLand’r (might be 2011) for my 242LS
http://www.shorelandr.com/pages/boattotrailer/mfg.aspx

What tools do I need and what should I do and check each year?

 

[tdonoughue]

Mostly I think it is brakes, lube and tires, beyond general inspection.

Brake writeup is here: https://jetboaters.net/threads/how-trailer-brakes-work.807/

For tires I would say check inflation, even wear, enough tread (use the penny method--if you can see the top of Lincoln's head with the penny inserted in the tread, time for new tires).

Anyone got a writeup on lube? I haven't finished my first one yet on the trailer (got interrupted). I know you want grease in the bearings just until the metal plate holding the Zerk fitting starts to float out toward you.

General inspection I would start with a checklist (others please add):

• Lights (all working, wires put up in right places and not hanging)
• Registration (plates and stickers to state law)
• Rear tie downs (check straps for fraying, hardware for rust--probably would be good to lube this, but I never have...)
• Bunk boards (check condition of boards and carpet for rot, check bolts for rust and missing)
• Frame (check for rust, check for chips in paint and re paint areas as needed)
• Winch (check for frays, rust on hardware)
• General hardware (start at front and inspect each bolt and screw for rust, tightness)

Ok, folks. What did I miss?

 

[KXCam22]

Very good list. I think lube the spring shackle pivot points and tightness of the folding hitch pivot bolt. Visual check on wheel vertical alignment (bowed axle check). Paint for surface rust that need touchup. Cam.