Archives for February 2023

How Often Should You Have Your Trailer Serviced?

February 27, 2023 by Kyle McFarlane

People often underestimate the need for trailer service and repair. While repairs can be mitigated with proper maintenance, many trailer owners do not adhere to an adequate maintenance schedule.A trailer needs attention to function as you expect. You need to keep an eye on tire wear and bearing grease. You need to wash the bed and undercarriage to prevent rust.McFarlane sells quality trailers, but you risk losing money on your investment if you do not keep up with maintenance. Taking care of your trailer means understanding maintenance schedules and adhering to checklists. It also means taking your trailer in to be serviced when necessary.

Understanding Trailer Maintenance Schedules

Just like an automobile, your trailer requires routine maintenance. A maintenance schedule helps you keep track of everything your trailer needs when it needs it.When you purchased your trailer, it should have come with a service manual. If you lost your manual, you can try contacting the manufacturer for a copy or looking for one online. Most manuals recommend having your trailer serviced every six months.Depending on your trailer, it may have specific parts or components that require more frequent maintenance. For example, many manufacturers recommend checking tire pressure, wheel torque, and breakaway functionality more often to ensure the usability of the trailer.

Acknowledging the Importance of Trailer Maintenance Checklists

Many trailer owners want to service their trailers on their own, but DIY options are often a mistake, especially if you are unfamiliar with the service steps and requirements. For example, if you are unaware of the signs of a faulty component or cannot adjust brakes, it is best to take your trailer to a service technician.If you feel confident in your abilities, you will want to look for the service checklist provided by your trailer's manufacturer. If you cannot find the checklist from your trailer's manufacturer, you can substitute one from another company.Checklists are crucial to proper servicing because they inform you how and when to care for each part. Only knowledgeable owners should try DIY servicing; it is usually best to take your trailer to a shop.

Importance of Checking Wheel Bearings and Tires

Wheel bearings ensure your trailer moves and operates smoothly. The bearings require routine greasing to ensure they function correctly. Most trailers will only need to be greased every 10,000 or 12,000 miles or every six months, whichever occurs first. Smaller travel trailers will require more frequent greasing, with many manufacturers suggesting every 2,000 miles.You should grease any other components at the same time as your wheel bearings. Grease does not last forever. If you use the trailer often, you may need to grease it more frequently. A professional technician can help you figure out how often is appropriate for your trailer and use case.Besides greasing the bearings and components, checking your trailer's tires is a vital safety measure. The tires take more abuse than any other part of your trailer. When assessing your tires, you want to ensure there is enough tread — a minimum depth of 2/32". You'll also want to check the tire pressure. Check the owner's manual for proper pressure requirements. Finally, check the tires for any signs of cracking or rotting. If you notice any significant wear, you should replace the tires.

Calling McFarlane Trailer Sales for Your Trailer Needs

Routine trailer service is crucial to ensure the longevity of your trailer. However, adhering to the strictest maintenance schedule will not prevent normal wear and tear. When it is time to replace your trailer, head over to one of Ontario's most trusted dealers, McFarlane Trailer Sales. Contact a representative to learn about the current inventory and services.

McFarlane Trailers Sales: How To Safely Load A Trailer

February 20, 2023 by Kyle McFarlane

Whether you own or are looking to purchase utility trailers or any trailer, knowing how to load correctly is crucial to safe hauling. Improper loading can create risks to the trailer, equipment, driver, and other people on the road. Before you invest in a trailer, ensure you understand the fundamentals of loading.

Understanding Safe Loading

When loading a trailer, you need to consider various factors, including cargo, vehicle, and the trailer itself. Not all cargo is equal, and the weight distribution and shape of equipment or materials will matter when it comes to loading and placement. To stay safe, always follow four rules when loading your trailer.1. Check the Specs of the Tow VehicleYou may know that your trailer can hold up to 10,000 pounds, but that doesn't mean your vehicle can manage such a heavy load. Before loading anything onto your trailer, make sure you check the specifications of the tow vehicle. The last thing you want to do is damage your truck.2. Stay Below Weight Capacity LimitsTrailers, by design, are workhorses. The vehicles can handle significant loads, but people can get a little overzealous when loading their trailers. It is essential to know the weight of your haul. You might meet trailer capacity and still have room on the trailer bed. Having space does not necessarily mean you can load more, not even with enclosed cargo trailers.3. Obey the 60/40 RuleMost professionals agree that when loading your trailer, you need to follow the 60/40 rule. The rule suggests that 60% of the cargo is toward the front of the axle and 40% behind it. Obviously, there might be occasions when obeying the rule isn't possible, but it is a safety measure for most jobs.4. Center Heavy ObjectsWhen moving heavier equipment, it is best to center it over the axle, which seems to go against the 60/40 rule. With extremely heavy or dense cargo, it is safer to load the equipment over the axle, capitalizing on the strength and design of the trailer.

Acknowledging Risks of Improper Loading

Improperly loading a trailer can lead to safety issues and potential hazards. Since you intend to operate the trailer on the roadways, improper loading is a safety risk for yourself and others. Improper loading techniques can lead to four potential problems.1. SwayingIf the weight is not distributed correctly on the trailer bed, you may experience swaying as you drive. Swaying can make it challenging to control your vehicle and stay in your lane. You want to distribute the load correctly to ensure driver control.2. Trouble brakingPoor weight distribution can also make it difficult to brake. If the load is too far ahead of the axle, it will put excessive pressure on the tow vehicle. If it is too far back on the trailer, it will pull on the tow vehicle, causing significant drag.3. DamageImproper loading can also cause significant and costly damage to your trailer. For example, if the cargo is too heavy, it can bend the axle. Also, if overloaded, the trailer tongue can break, which is why it is vital to pay attention to stated weight capacities.4. AccidentsSwaying, inadequate braking, and damage can all result in severe accidents on the road. Knowing tow capacities and obeying loading rules can minimize risks.

Buying Your New Trailer From McFarlane Trailer Sales

Now that you understand the importance of safe loading and know the rules, it is time to invest in your new trailer. Contact a representative at McFarlane Trailer Sales and ask about the available inventory of dump trailers and customization options.

McFarlane Trailers Sales: Should You Buy A New Or Used Trailer?

February 13, 2023 by Kyle McFarlane

There are many reasons to look for new or used trailers for sale. The option you choose for your business or recreational needs will depend on your specific needs.Used trailers are more affordable than brand-new options, but the affordability also comes with a cost, most often quality. New trailers are expensive, but you can customize them to suit your needs, meaning they are better for long-term use. Still, weighing the pros and cons of each option is the best way to determine which is the right choice for you.

The Pros and Cons of Buying Used

Buying a used trailer is an acceptable option for some people, especially if you do not intend to use the equipment often or strenuously. If you choose to buy used, you need to keep several things in mind.First, used trailers are bought as-is and without warranties. When you buy a used trailer, what you see is what you get. It would be best to remember that used trailers were likely used hard by their original owners. While many trailer brands come with full warranties, those guarantees are void with the transfer of ownership.Second, used trailers may have significant or costly problems that make them too expensive to represent any real value or savings. If a trailer has bad tires, worn brakes, or damaged axles, it is best to move on to another option. You don't want to pay more for repairs than you did for the trailer.Third, while there are good used trailers for sale, scams are prevalent. You should be careful when buying from platforms like Craigslist or other online marketplaces. Also, watch out for too-good-to-be-true pricing; many scammers will try to sell stolen goods or property they don't have a title for.Finally, if you buy a used trailer, buy it from a reputable dealer. A quality dealer will take steps to ensure the functionality and legality of any products and transactions. Many retailers will inspect used trailers to ensure they are safe and operational, giving you more confidence in your purchase.

The Pros and Cons of Buying New

You cannot argue with the benefit of saving money on a used trailer; some businesses and individuals cannot afford the luxury of a new one. Still, new trailers carry many benefits, including customization.The primary disadvantage of buying a new trailer is the cost. New and custom models will always cost more than used ones, but the price shows in the quality. Also, you have options for reducing your initial costs. Some retailers or financial institutions will offer to finance, allowing you to pay over time.The benefits of buying a new trailer are many, including a warranty, customization options, and longevity. Most top trailer manufacturers stand behind their products with robust warranties, backing up your purchases in the event of an equipment malfunction.Most retailers can customize trailer solutions to fit your exact needs. Why buy a trailer if it isn't 100% up to the task?Finally, despite the higher upfront cost, a new trailer will require less maintenance and last longer than a used trailer. If you can afford a brand-new trailer, it is really the only choice.

Check Out the New Trailers at McFarlane Trailer Sales

Located in New Hamburg, Ontario, McFarlane Trailer Sales is a trusted name in the Ontario region. You can find any trailer in its available stock, leaving nothing to be desired. Also, for any special request, McFarlane can make custom trailer solutions. If you are in the market for a trailer, check out McFarlane's trailer inventory and contact a company representative for more information.

Which Trailer Is Best For Hauling Heavy Equipment?

February 6, 2023 by Kyle McFarlane

Flatbed trailers are typically good for transporting heavy equipment, but they are not the only option. The trailer that will work best for your needs will depend on the specific equipment you plan on hauling. Some equipment requires built-in mechanisms to make loading and unloading the trailer easier. You can speak to a McFarlane Trailer Sales representative to learn more about the current inventory and customization options.

Understanding the Different Types of Trailers

There are many variations of trailers and trailer types. Having a clear understanding of each, along with its pros and cons, is the best way to determine which trailer is best for your hauling needs.Also, understanding the requirements for loading and transporting specific equipment is helpful, but only you will have that information. With that information, you can choose from many trailers capable of handling heavy equipment.

Utility Trailers

Utility trailers range in size from six to 20 feet. A single axle utility trailer has only one axle in the middle of the trailer, while capable of transporting loads up to 10,000 pounds depending on size, you may prefer the stability of a double-axle trailer.A double-axle trailer has two axles located in the middle of the trailer, allowing for four wheels. Because of the extra support, these trailers can manage, in theory, up to 20,000 pounds.

Deckover Trailers

Deckover trailers may appear similar to utility trailers, but they have distinct differences. A utility trailer commonly has short side walls, but deckover options do not, making it easy to load and unload equipment. Also, every deckover trailer has a minimum of two axles. Finally, deckover options are usually bigger than utility trailers, with the smallest around 12 feet and the largest around 30 feet.

Dump Trailers

A dump trailer is also capable of hauling heavy loads, but it is usually not preferred for moving equipment. Dump trailers are better suited for moving loose materials or debris. The trailers have a mechanism that allows them to dump materials onto the ground, hence the name. Dump trailers are typically used in landscaping and construction to transport a lot of loose materials quickly.

Tilt Trailers

Like dump trailers, tilt trailers have a tilting mechanism, but they are not designed to dump material onto the ground. The tilt mechanism is meant for loading and unloading equipment. You can think of a tilt trailer as similar to the mechanism of a tow truck — the purpose of the moving bed is to make the loading and unloading of the car easier.

Heavy-Duty Trailers

Heavy-duty trailers are among the largest trailer options available, reaching up to 100 feet long. These trailers typically use a gooseneck hitch, and you will often find them in the agricultural industry, specifically hauling livestock. When used for animal transport, the trailers are enclosed to protect against weather and cold. The walls will contain insulation and ventilation to ensure warmth and airflow.

Specialty Equipment Trailers

Specialty equipment trailers are typically used for recreational transportation. For example, ATVs or snowmobiles cannot operate on regular roadways, so trailer manufacturers created a niche trailer to support the weight and loading of such equipment. You can likely find other uses for such trailers, such as the hauling of a riding lawnmower.

McFarlane Trailer Sales Has the Right Trailer for You

Transporting heavy equipment requires the right trailer. For easy loading and unloading, a deckover option may be your best investment choice, but it is certainly not your only one. McFarlane Trailer Sales has a large inventory and can customize a trailer for your specific needs. Contact a McFarlane representative to discuss your needs and find your next trailer.