Trailer Trip Preparation

Reference: Operation Maintenance Service Manual 600 - 8,000 lb. Axles & Related Components.
Dexter Axle, 290 Industrial Parkway East, Elkhart, IN 46516 574-295-7888 http://www.dexteraxle.com

Trip Preparation Checklist

There are a number of simple rules to follow in caring for your trailer axle assembly that can add to its life and in the case of some of these rules, you may be protecting your own life as well. Using the following checklist before starting a trip with your trailer is highly recommended. Some of these items should be checked 2-3 weeks prior to a planned trip to allow sufficient time to perform maintenance.

1. Check your maintenance schedule and be sure you are up-to-date.
2. Check hitch. Is it showing wear? Is it properly lubricated?
3. Fasten safety chains and breakaway switch actuating chain securely. Make certain the breakaway battery is fully charged.
4. Inspect towing hookup for secure attachment.
5. Load your trailer so that approximately 10% of the trailers total weight is on the hitch. For light trailers this should be increased to 15%.
6. Do Not Overload. Stay within your gross vehicle rated capacity (consult your trailers identification plate).
7. Inflate tires according to manufacturer’s specifications; inspect tires for cuts, excessive wear, etc.
8. Check wheel mounting nuts/bolts with a torque wrench. Torque, in proper sequence, to the levels specified in the manual.
9. Make certain brakes are synchronized and functioning properly.
10. Check tightness of hanger bolt, shackle bolt, and U-bolt nuts per torque values specified in manual.
11. Check operation of lights.
12. Check that your trailer is towing in a level position and adjust hitch height if required.