Beat the Heat: Maintenance Tips for Hauling in the Summer

Ah, summer in Ontario. The perfect time to tackle that big project, move to a new cottage, or head out on a well-deserved camping trip. While the warm weather is a welcome change, it can be tough on your trailer. The combination of intense heat, sun exposure, and long hauls can put a surprising amount of stress on your equipment.

Just like you need to stay hydrated in the heat, your trailer needs a little extra attention to perform its best and stay safe on the road. At Competition Trailers, we build our products to handle whatever you throw at them, but a little preventative care goes a long way. Let’s dive into some essential maintenance tips to help you and your trailer beat the heat and make the most of your summer.

1. The Tire Trio: Pressure, Condition, and Spares

Your tires are your trailer’s only contact with the road, and they work incredibly hard, especially in hot conditions. A lot of people think trailer tires are the same as car tires, but they’re built for a different kind of stress and require specific care.

Pressure is King: This is the most critical check you can make. The heat from the road and the surrounding air can cause the air inside your tires to expand, increasing the pressure. While this is a natural process, it’s essential to start with the correct cold inflation pressure (CIP) as recommended by the tire manufacturer, not the pressure on the sidewall. Under-inflated tires generate excessive heat, which can lead to blowouts, a dangerous and frustrating situation on a busy highway. So, before every trip, check and adjust your tire pressure when the tires are cool.
Inspect for Wear and Tear: Summer roads can be tough on rubber. Take a moment to visually inspect each tire for any signs of wear. Look for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects like nails or stones. Pay attention to the tread depth as well. Uneven wear can be a sign of alignment or axle issues that should be addressed by a professional.
Don’t Forget the Spare! It’s easy to overlook, but your spare tire is useless if it’s flat or in poor condition. Ensure your spare is inflated to the correct pressure and is easily accessible. You don’t want to be fumbling with a dead spare on the side of the road in the blistering sun.

2. Bearings and Axles: Keep Things Rolling Smoothly

The hubs and wheel bearings on your trailer are a crucial component, and they can be severely affected by heat and friction. When these parts overheat, the grease can break down and fail to lubricate the bearings, which can lead to a catastrophic failure.

Touch Test: After a short trip, carefully touch the hubs of your trailer. If they are extremely hot to the touch (anything beyond a warm sensation), it could be a sign of a bearing issue. A well-maintained bearing should run warm, not scorching hot.
Grease is Your Friend: For trailers with greaseable hubs (like the quality Dexter axles we use), it’s a good practice to give them a fresh shot of grease every season or before a long trip. Fresh grease ensures the bearings are properly lubricated and protected from moisture and heat. It’s a small investment in time that can save you from a major breakdown.

3. Lights, Brakes, and Electricals

Summer brings longer days, but that doesn’t mean you can neglect your lights. They’re essential for visibility and safety, day or night.

Test Everything: Before you head out, do a quick walk-around and test all your lights: brake lights, turn signals, and running lights. The vibrations of the road and heat can loosen connections or cause bulbs to burn out.
Brake Check: If your trailer has electric brakes, a quick check of the brake controller is important. Ensure it’s functioning correctly and that the brakes are engaging properly. Overheated brakes are a serious safety hazard, so if you notice any unusual smells or a lack of responsiveness, have them inspected immediately.

4. Frame and Finish: Sunburn for Your Trailer

While galvanized trailers are incredibly durable against rust, the sun’s UV rays can still be hard on any finish.

Rinse and Dry: After a trip, especially if you’ve been on dusty roads, give your trailer a good rinse. Dust and dirt can hold moisture and lead to rust, while caked-on mud can hide potential issues.
Parking Smart: Whenever possible, park your trailer in the shade or under a covered area. This protects the finish from fading and keeps your tires out of direct sunlight, which can cause them to crack and deteriorate faster.

5. Loading Smart: The Weight of Your Load

Summer trips often mean more gear, but don’t overload your trailer. Overloading is one of the quickest ways to cause a blowout, brake failure, and structural damage.

Know Your Limits: Always be aware of your trailer’s Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and your tow vehicle’s towing capacity.
Distribute Evenly: Distribute your load evenly, placing heavier items over the axles. An unbalanced load puts extra stress on the tires, axles, and frame, which is only made worse by the summer heat.

Taking these simple steps to maintain your trailer in the summer will ensure it performs reliably and safely, giving you more peace of mind and more time to enjoy the season. If you have any questions or need parts or service, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Competition Trailers. We’re always here to help you haul with confidence.