Some commonly overlooked hauling equipment maintenance.
When was the last time you thoroughly inspected your shed-hauling equipment? If it’s been quite a while, you’re not alone. Maintenance is one of those things that you keep putting off until something unexpectedly breaks down.
Maintaining your machine in excellent condition is a never-ending struggle with the elements—the longer you ignore worn parts, the sooner your machine will malfunction. Understanding the nuts and bolts of hauling equipment upkeep is crucial to prevent breakdowns and steep repair costs.
WHY MAINTENANCE MATTERS
At its core, maintenance is about protecting your investment. Hauling equipment, whether a basic utility trailer or a more complex machine, goes through a lot of wear and tear. Over time, even minor issues can snowball into major problems, leading to expensive repairs or replacements.
Equipment repair and maintenance have an 89 percent reliability rate, according to ScienceDirect, which highlights how crucial this work can be.
Regular upkeep reduces risk, guarantees the machine’s safety, and extends its lifespan. With the right care, accidents caused by faulty parts, malfunctioning brakes, or broken hitches may be easily prevented.
COMMON MAINTENANCE OVERSIGHTS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Here are some of the most frequently ignored aspects of hauling equipment care and what you can do to address them.
Skipping Regular Inspections
It’s easy to assume your equipment is fine if nothing looks visibly wrong. However, skipping regular checks can allow small issues to worsen unnoticed. For example, a loose bolt or slightly worn tire might not seem urgent but these can lead to serious failures during operation.
The solution? Make inspections part of your routine.
- Inspect tire pressure with a gauge.
- Check for rust on the underside of the trailer.
- Wiggle bolts to ensure tightness.
Look underneath your equipment as well—corrosion or leaks can hide out of sight.
Ignoring Cleaning Needs
Over time, dirt, debris, and grime can accumulate on your hauling equipment and cause deterioration. Debris in mechanical components can prevent proper operation and mud can retain moisture and trigger corrosion.
The answer is to clean your machine after every use, particularly if it has been in the rain, dirt, or other inclement weather. Use the proper cleaning supplies and machines to prevent harming delicate components. A good rinse and a quick wipe-down can go a long way.
Overlooking Lubrication
Friction is the enemy of any machine. Improper lubrication can decrease the performance and longevity of moving parts such as axles and joints.
Dry axles can cause grinding noises and premature wear, especially in heavily loaded trailers. You should apply the lubricants as frequently as the manufacturer advises to ensure proper lubrication. Watch for dry areas and screeching, which are obvious indicators that lubrication is required.
Forgetting to Check Brakes and Lights
Your brakes and lights are your first line of defense on the road. Worn brakes can fail when you’re towing heavy loads and malfunctioning lights put you at risk of accidents at night or in poor visibility. Before every trip, press the brake pedal and feel for responsiveness. Check light bulbs for dimming or flickering and replace them as needed.
An estimated 3.13 percent of truck-related accidents are due to mechanical failure, according to the Journal of Advanced Transportation. Unchecked tires account for 43.1 percent of these problems while the brake system contributes 29.6 percent. While this is a small portion of total crashes, proper upkeep can prevent all of them.
Neglecting Proper Storage
If you don’t store your equipment properly, it might affect its performance. Exposure to elements like rain, snow, or heat can cause rust, fading, and general wear.
Keep your machine in a dry, protected location. If indoor storage is not an option, invest in weather-resistant coverings to shield it from the elements.
HOW TO GET STARTED
Ready to inspect your hauling equipment? Here are a few things you can do to start:
- Establish a maintenance schedule and include reminders for routine cleaning, lubrication, service, and inspections.
- Record all services, repairs and replacements in a maintenance log. This will enable you to monitor patterns and foresee potential future needs.
- Invest in high-quality lubricants, cleaning materials, and equipment. Consider reviewing the handbook or hiring an expert for more complex upkeep procedures.
MAKE YOUR EQUIPMENT HAUL-READY
The next time you glance at your hauling equipment, remember it’s not just about keeping it running today but ensuring it’s ready for every haul ahead.
Paying attention to small details and staying consistent can save you a lot of hassle and money in the long run.
