Spring is here, and there’s no better time to get your trailers ready for the intense heat and heavy rainstorms that summer brings. Want to keep your fleet in top condition? Here are four tips to get your trailer ready for whatever the summer months send your way.
1. Clean It Up to Prevent Chemical Corrosion
If your drivers traveled over snow-covered roads during the winter, it’s important to remove de-icing materials from your trailers because the chemicals used in deicers can be highly corrosive, especially in areas like undercarriages or wheel wells. If de-icing materials get trapped in hard-to-reach areas, like between panels or on the floor, they can continue to cause damage even after the winter season is over. We suggest using a professional truck washing service to make sure your trailer gets a thorough clean without the risk of damage that can occur with high-pressure washing.
2. Seal It Up to Prevent Rain Seepage
Water can have a damaging effect on many parts of your trailer, so it’s important to consider steps you can take before summer rainstorms begin. To prevent rainwater from seeping through the doors of your trailer, inspect the door seals for any damage and repair or replace any seals or gaskets that aren’t in good shape.
Rainwater can also seep in through the roof of your trailer when the glare of the sun degrades the roof sealants. While you’re inspecting the trailer door, climb on the roof and look for any areas that need to be resealed. By keeping the doors and roof watertight, you can help prevent mold and mildew caused by water intrusion.
3. Keep Rolling with Proper Tire Maintenance
Summer heat can be tough on tires, especially if your trailer travels in high temperatures and for long distances. To keep your operation running efficiently, check the air pressure on your tires regularly and look for cuts or punctures that need repair. Make weekly tire inspection part of your routine, not just during summer but throughout the year, for a simple way to increase your driver’s safety as well as all those on the road.
“When considering the damage water can cause, it’s easy to overlook what heavy summer rains can do to truck and trailer wheel ends if rainwater seeps in through the hubcaps,” said James Brown, Senior Manager of Warranty and Customer Service at Great Dane. “This can be easily avoided if you check your hubcaps frequently to make sure they have proper lubrication and that there are no signs of water contamination.”
Want to learn more ways to increase peak performance for your tires? Dive into this trailer tire specification and maintenance article for additional expert insights.
4. Reap the Rewards of Reapplying Undercoating
If your trailers have wooden floors, keep in mind that water and debris from bad weather can cause damage over time. Reapplying the undercoating restores your floor’s protection, preventing it from potential damage and keeping your trailer in great condition.
By staying on top of these maintenance steps, you’ll keep your equipment in great shape and have more peace of mind for the upcoming summer months and the road ahead.
“Preventative trailer maintenance helps equipment withstand the heat, reducing unexpected repairs and costly downtime. Incorporating these recommendations into the routine can keep trailers in great shape and ensure fleets stay on the move.”
— James Brown, Senior Manager of Warranty and Customer Service at Great Dane.
