Have you ever thought about how to take care of your boat trailer when it’s not in use?
Boat trailer storage is important for maintaining its condition and ensuring it lasts for many seasons. Proper storage prevents damage from weather, pests, and wear and tear.
In this guide, we will share some easy tips to help you store your boat trailer safely. Whether you park it in a garage or keep it outside, following these guidelines will help you protect your investment.
Let’s dive into the best practices for keeping your boat trailer in great shape while it’s stored away.
Clean the Trailer Thoroughly
Before you store your boat trailer, it’s important to clean it well. Start by washing off dirt, mud, and any salt from the ocean Use soap and water, then rinse it completely. This helps prevent rust and damage.
Next, check the wheels and tires. Make sure there isn’t any debris stuck in them. Dry everything carefully to stop water from causing problems.
If you can, store the trailer in a secured storage area. This keeps it safe from pests and bad weather.
Lastly, check the lights and brakes to ensure they work properly. A clean trailer lasts longer and stays in great shape for your next adventure!
Inspect Tires and Wheels
Check your trailer’s tires and wheels often. Look for any cracks, bulges, or low air pressure. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to keep them in good shape.
If you plan to store your trailer for a long time, consider using RV storage blocks. These blocks help support the trailer and keep the tires off the ground. This prevents flat spots on the tires. Also, remember to check for rust on the wheels.
Clean them if you see any. A little care goes a long way in keeping your tires and wheels ready for your next trip. Taking these steps now will make your adventures safer and more enjoyable!
Lubricate Moving Parts
Lubricating the moving parts of your boat trailer is vital for smooth operation. Start with the wheel bearings.
Remove the old grease, clean the bearings, and apply fresh grease. This helps prevent rust and keeps the wheels turning easily. Don’t forget to check the tongue jack and any other moving parts, like the hitch.
Apply lubricant where needed to keep them working well. Use a spray lubricant for easier application.
Regularly greasing these parts keeps them in good condition and helps avoid costly repairs. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for the right type of lubricant to use.
Check the Lights
Make sure your trailer lights work properly before storing it. Check all the lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and running lights.
It’s important to replace any burnt-out bulbs right away. You can do this by twisting the old bulb out and pushing a new one in.
If the lights are not working, look for any loose wires or bad connections. Clean the light lenses with soap and water to remove dirt and grime, which helps them shine bright.
Using a little electrical contact cleaner can also help. Good lights keep you safe on the road and make it easier for others to see you while towing your trailer. Stay safe and be visible!
Cover Your Trailer
Covering your boat trailer is a smart way to protect it from the elements. A good cover keeps rain, snow, and dirt off your trailer, which helps prevent rust and damage.
When choosing a cover, make sure it fits well and is made from strong material. You can find covers made for trailers of all sizes. Before putting on the cover, wipe any dirt or moisture off the trailer to keep it clean.
Check the cover regularly to make sure it stays in place and does not have any rips. Securing the cover with straps will help it stay tight during windy weather.
Store the Trailer in a Dry Location
Storing your trailer in a dry location is very important. Find a place that keeps your trailer safe from rain, snow, and moisture. Water can cause rust and damage your trailer over time. If you have a garage or a barn, those are great spots.
If you need to store it outside, look for a nice and dry area away from trees. You can also consider using a storage facility like Red E Storage. They offer secure and dry spots just for trailers.
Whatever place you choose, make sure it’s clean and safe. This care keeps your trailer ready for fun adventures whenever you want to go out on the water!
Keep it Off the Ground
Keeping your boat trailer off the ground is important for its safety. Use blocks or jacks to lift the trailer. This prevents the tires from flattening and helps stop rust.
If your trailer sits on the ground for too long, flat spots can form on the tires, making it hard to drive later. Every few months, check the blocks to make sure everything is holding up.
Move the trailer a little if you can. This will help keep the tires in good shape.
Also, make sure the ground under the trailer is dry and clear of debris. Taking these steps ensures your trailer stays ready for your next boating adventure!
Regularly Check During Storage
Checking your boat trailer regularly while it’s in storage is a good habit. This helps you catch any problems early before they become bigger issues. Every few weeks, look over the trailer to see if it’s clean and secure.
Check the cover to make sure it’s not torn and is still holding tight. Look at the tires for any signs of damage or flat spots. It’s also smart to check the lights; they should be clean and working.
If you notice anything that looks off, fix it right away. By keeping an eye on your trailer, you can make sure it stays in great shape for your next trip out on the water!
Proper Boat Trailer Storage Is Very Important
Proper boat trailer storage is key to keeping your trailer in good shape. By cleaning it, checking the tires, lubricating moving parts, and covering it, you can avoid damage.
Remember to store your trailer in a dry place and check it regularly while in storage. These simple steps will help make sure your boat trailer is ready for fun adventures whenever you want to go on the water!
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