McFarlane Trailer Services: Keeping Your Investment in Top Shape

 Are you worried about the wear and tear on your trailer? Our blog breaks down how to keep your investment in top shape with trailer maintenance importance.Imagine starting a long road trip only to be stopped by a breakdown because of a neglected trailer part. Keeping your trailer in good condition is not just about functionality—it's about making sure every trip is safe and enjoyable without surprises. With today's busy lifestyle, it's easy to overlook trailer upkeep.At McFarlane Trailer Services, we believe regular trailer maintenance is important for protecting your investment and ensuring peace of mind during your travels. We are dedicated to offering thorough trailer service and repair. Focusing on regular checks and small repairs, we help prevent big issues and save money in the long run.McFarlane Trailer Sales offers a diverse range of trailer brands and types to suit every need, including Rocklyn, Darkhorse, One-Sixteen, Enbeck, and more. Whether you're looking for a durable utility trailer or a spacious cargo hauler, we have options that blend quality and performance to support all your adventures.In the following sections, we'll explain why trailer maintenance matters and share simple tips to make your trailer last longer. We'll cover basic techniques to protect your trailer and enhance your road experience. Join us to learn how to keep your trailer durable, safe, and efficient.

Regular Inspection Checklist

Regular inspections are a cornerstone of effective trailer maintenance, ensuring that every component operates optimally and safely. A thorough checklist helps identify wear and tear before it becomes a costly problem, safeguarding both your investment and your journey.
  • Tire Condition and Pressure: Your trailer's tires are its foundation. Regularly checking their tread, pressure, and overall condition can prevent blowouts and improve towing safety. Properly inflated tires ensure optimum fuel efficiency and reduce wear and tear. Make tire inspections a monthly habit for peace of mind on the road.
  • Brakes and Lights: The brake system and lights are critical for safety. Ensure that all brake components are in good working order and that the tail, brake, and signal lights are fully functional. These components are vital for safe roadways, especially during night travels or adverse weather conditions.
  • Hitch and Coupler: The hitch and coupler form the connection between your trailer and vehicle. Inspect these parts for any signs of wear or damage. Securely fasten them before each trip to avoid any detachment during transport. A secure hitch means peace of mind.

Routine Cleaning and Rust Prevention

Keeping your trailer in good shape with regular exterior cleaning is more important than many might imagine. By routinely washing your trailer, you remove dirt, grime, and salt buildup that can lead to corrosion. Not only does regular cleaning help maintain the visual appeal, but it also serves as a vital preventive measure against damage.Over time, exposure to the elements, especially roads treated with salt in winter, can significantly affect metal surfaces. By incorporating a consistent cleaning schedule, you protect your investment from unnecessary wear.In addition to cleaning, rust prevention measures should be a key focus. This includes applying protective coatings to metal parts, which act as a barrier against moisture. Regularly inspect your trailer for any signs of rust, paying special attention to joints and areas frequently exposed to moisture. Swift action upon spotting rust can make a big difference in preserving the integrity and longevity of your equipment.

Lubrication of Moving Parts

Ensuring that the moving parts of your equipment are well-lubricated is an essential component of effective preventive care. Regular lubrication can significantly extend the life of your mechanisms, ensuring that they function smoothly and reliably.One of the key aspects of maintenance is the lubrication of wheel bearings, suspension components, and door hinges. Consistent greasing minimizes friction and wear, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns while enhancing performance. This simple yet crucial task ensures that your equipment stays in optimal condition for every journey you undertake.Keeping the brake system and hitch in top form is vital for safety and performance. Routine lubrication helps ensure these critical components work smoothly, thus enhancing overall safety. By providing the necessary care to these parts, you can enjoy a smoother, more secure ride wherever your adventures take you.

Electrical System and Battery Care

Incorporating regular checks of your trailer's electrical components ensures reliability on the road. Over time, wiring can become susceptible to wear or damage, potentially leading to electrical malfunctions that could spell trouble on your trip.Conducting routine inspections of all wiring and looking for signs of fraying or loose connections can help avoid these issues. It's a proactive step that secures your peace of mind and contributes to the overall well-being of your equipment.For trailers equipped with electronic systems, the battery is a critical component requiring attention. Regularly testing the battery's charge and condition is crucial, especially before long journeys. A well-maintained battery supports all electronic functions efficiently, keeping your travels smooth and stress-free.By attending to both the wiring and battery, you ensure that your system operates effectively, minimizing the risk of unexpected failures.

Floor and Structural Integrity Checks

Ensuring the longevity and safety of your equipment involves careful monitoring of its foundation. Conducting regular inspections of the floor and frame is crucial, particularly if you frequently haul heavy loads. These inspections help identify potential issues early on, preventing costly repairs and maintaining the equipment's structural integrity.The very carpet under which your cargo rides, the floor, demands attention. Checking for signs of rot, cracks, or any damage is of utmost importance, especially when bearing significant weight regularly. Such wear can compromise your cargo's safety and ultimately affect the journey. To spot these issues, give the floor a thorough once-over periodically. Addressing them promptly ensures a solid foundation for all future trips.The backbone of the structure, the frame, and its welds are the silent sentinels of strength and resilience. Regularly examine for any signs of damage, rust, or weakness, as these can undermine the load-bearing capacity and reliability. Faulty welds could lead to severe safety hazards if left unchecked. By maintaining a vigilant eye on these key elements, you ensure continued durability and longevity.If you plan to store your trailer for an extended period during winter, taking the time to properly winterize it can save you from headaches later.

Seasonal Maintenance Considerations

Winter storage is a crucial aspect when preparing for off-season months. If you plan to store your trailer for an extended period during winter, taking the time to properly winterize it can save you from headaches later. Start by thoroughly cleaning your equipment to remove any dirt or debris.Lubricating all moving parts helps against the effects of cold weather, keeping everything in working order when it's time to use it again. Covering your trailer with a protective cover is an essential step to defend against harsh winter elements, preserving its integrity and preventing potential damage.As with any investment, seasonal adjustments are essential to ensure continued performance throughout the year. Each season brings different challenges, and it's vital to adjust your care routine accordingly. For instance, in the summer, when usage tends to increase, you might need more frequent inspections to ensure everything is in top condition. This approach highlights the importance of adapting your routine to the specific demands of each time of year, maximizing the reliability of your equipment.By giving attention to these seasonal needs, you ensure that your investment remains in optimal shape, ready for action when required.

Professional Servicing and Upgrades

Engaging in routine professional inspections can be a game-changer for maintaining your equipment's reliability and efficiency. Professionals are equipped with the expertise to detect subtle issues that owners might overlook, which can prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs. This proactive approach is not only a safeguard but a wise investment in keeping your equipment in top shape.Beyond inspections, upgrading certain parts can significantly enhance the equipment's performance. Improvements like high-quality tires, brighter and more energy-efficient lighting, or a robust suspension system can offer a smoother and more efficient ride. These upgrades not only boost functionality but also contribute to the long-term longevity of your equipment.

Why Choose McFarlane Trailer Services?

We offer comprehensive professional trailer servicing to safeguard and maintain your valuable investment. Our skilled team is equipped to address all facets of trailer maintenance, ensuring your asset remains reliable and efficient.We understand the importance of preventive trailer maintenance in extending the life of your trailer. Our expert services focus on both routine inspections and advanced repairs tailored to meet the specific needs of your trailer. Our goal is not only to keep your trailer running smoothly but also to enhance its performance for a superior towing experience.Located in the heart of New Hamburg, Ontario, we at McFarlane Trailers pride ourselves on being a trusted name in trailer service and repair. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets us apart, ensuring your trailer receives the best care possible.Investing in regular maintenance is crucial to avoid costly breakdowns and ensure safe travels. Reach out to us to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your trailer in peak condition. Whether you're preparing for a long haul or seasonal storage, we've got you covered. Contact us today to experience the McFarlane difference and discover the true importance of trailer service and repair.

How Often Should You Repack Trailer Wheel Bearings?

How Often Should You Repack Trailer Wheel Bearings?

McFarlane's service department is here to help you keep your trailer safe and ready for its next job. We offer a wide range of services, including wheel bearing maintenance and repair. Many trailer owners need more information about how to pack wheel bearings on a trailer. Here we will summarize what wheel bearings do for you, how to repack trailer bearings and provide overall tips on travel trailer wheel bearing maintenance.

Wheel Bearings: A Crucial Part of Your Trailer

Wheel bearings allow the wheels to rotate freely and smoothly, which is essential for safe operation. If your wheel bearings are not properly maintained, they can overheat and fail, which can cause serious damage to your trailer. Here are some of the things that can happen if your wheel bearings are not properly maintained:

  • Overheating: If your wheel bearings overheat, they can warp or seize, which can cause the wheels to lock up. This can lead to a loss of control and a crash.
  • Failure: If your wheel bearings fail, the wheels will no longer be able to rotate freely. This can cause the trailer to become unstable and could cause an accident.
  • Damage to the trailer: If your wheel bearings overheat or fail, they could warp the axle, damage the wheel, or even tear the trailer apart.

How To Pack Wheel Bearings on a Trailer 

In order to pack wheel bearings on a trailer, you should trust a professional., Experts know how to remove the wheel and tire safely, clean the bearing, fully apply high-quality trailer wheel bearing grease, install the bearing and test it for any noise or rough friction.

  1. Remove the wheel and tire. Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheel and tire.
  2. Clean the bearing. Use a wire brush to clean the bearing of any dirt, debris, or old grease.
  3. Apply grease. Use high-quality wheel bearing grease and apply it to the bearing races. Be sure to get grease into all of the nooks and crannies.
  4. Install the bearing. Reinstall the wheel and tire and tighten the lug nuts.
  5. Test the bearing. Spin the wheel by hand and listen for any noise or roughness. If you hear any noise, the bearing may not be properly packed.

Additional Tips for Packing Wheel Bearings

Also, consider these ideas as you seek to deepen your knowledge of travel trailer wheel bearing maintenance:

  • Use high-quality wheel bearing grease. Cheap grease will not provide the same level of protection and can lead to premature bearing failure.
  • Be sure to get grease into all of the nooks and crannies of the bearing. This will help to ensure that the bearing is properly lubricated and protected.
  • If you are not comfortable packing wheel bearings, you can take your trailer to a qualified mechanic. They will be able to pack the bearings properly and ensure that your trailer is safe to drive.

Signs That Your Wheel Bearing Needs To Be Packed

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have the wheel bearings checked by a qualified mechanic. They will be able to determine if the bearings need to be packed or replaced.

  • Noise: If you hear a humming or growling noise coming from the wheels, it may be a sign that the bearings need to be packed.
  • Heat: If the wheels feel hot to the touch, it may be a sign that the bearings are not properly lubricated.
  • Looseness: If the wheels feel loose or wobbly, it may be a sign that the bearings are worn out.

How to Maintain Your Wheel Bearings

There are a few things you can do to maintain your wheel bearings and keep them in good working order:

  • Inspect your wheel bearings regularly. Look for signs of wear, such as excessive heat, grease, or noise.
  • Lubricate your wheel bearings regularly. Use a high-quality lubricant that is designed for wheel bearings.
  • Have your wheel bearings inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic at least once a year.

McFarlane's Service Department Can Help

If you need help with wheel bearing maintenance or repair, McFarlane's Service Department is here to help. We have a team of experienced mechanics who are experts in trailer repair. We use only high-quality parts and lubricants. We also offer a wide range of products for trailers, including:

  • Washing chemicals
  • Lube
  • Oils
  • Wax
  • Silicones
  • Epoxy
  • Full trailer restoration
  • And more!

Contact McFarlane's Service Department Today

If you need help with your trailer, contact McFarlane's Service Department today. We'll be happy to answer any questions you have and help you get your trailer back on the road. Contact McFarlane's today to learn more about our products and services.

FAQ’s Answered About Trailer Hitches

FAQ's Answered About Trailer HitchesQuality trailer service and repair start with knowing the right questions to ask. McFarlane Trailer Sales receives questions about trailer hitches often, so let us help you with some answers to common questions about them.

What Size Ballmount Do I Need for My Trailer Hitch?

This will depend on the overall weight rating of your trailer. Trailer hitches are tested and rated for specific ball mount sizes. The receiver size will be anywhere from 1 1/4" to  3" within the five classes of weight ratings. The heavier the weight rating, the larger the ball mount. The weights are then broken down into the following categories:
  • Class I: 2,000 lbs
  • Class II: 3,500 lbs
  • Class III: 6,000 lbs
  • Class IV: 12,000 lbs
  • Class V: 14,000 lbs 

What Is a Brake Control?

Electric brake control takes power from the tow vehicle and supplies it to the trailer's brakes. A small control box is installed underneath the driver's side dashboard. When the driver depresses the brake pedal for the tow vehicle, the electronic box sends an electrical current to the trailer brakes.

Proportional Brake Controls 

Proportional or inertia brake controls get a read on how quickly the tow vehicle is stopping and send the same amount of force to the trailer brakes. A brake pedal switch is activated by a pendulum circuit that applies the correct amount of voltage to each brake.

Time-based Brake Controls

This method requires the user to set a predetermined amount of power in the brake box. When the driver hits the brake pedal, there is a time delay before the trailer brakes are engaged. You can be traveling at any speed, and the trailer brakes will engage in the same way every time.

Are Safety Chains Required When Towing?

Yes. Laws require you to use chains or cables when towing. In the rare event that the trailer becomes disconnected from the ball (on a bumpy road), the chains will keep the trailer connected to your truck. Otherwise, your trailer will be loose on the road, creating an extreme safety hazard. Avoid costly trailer service and repair by using safety chains.

What Is Trailer Sway?

Trailer sway happens when the tongue is not heavy enough to create a downward force on the hitch ball. If the weight in your trailer is distributed unevenly, you may experience the trailer bobbing and weaving behind your tow vehicle.Test this by loading a trailer and gradually increasing your speed on the open road. Watch the behaviour of your trailer closely. If it rocks from side to side or has trouble staying in the lane, park and adjust the cargo so its heaviest part is closer to the tongue. If this doesn't work, consider buying a weight distribution system for your trailer.

How Do I Measure My Trailer Ball?

Four important measurements include ball diameter, shank length, shank diameter, and the trailer hitch ball load rating. Start with the diameter of the ball, using a tape measure or ruler. Then measure the ball shank size from the bottom of the base to the end of the threads. Finally, measure the thickness of the base. Make sure this all matches up with the weight rating.

Comprehensive Trailer Service and Repair at McFarlane

When you book a service appointment with us, you avail yourself of our many areas of expertise which include:
  • Axle repair and replacement
  • Brake drums and backing plates 
  • Trailer lighting and wiring
  • Tires and rims 
  • Wheel hitch installations
We will fully inspect your trailer for any areas for improvement, and recommend the highest-need repairs. If you come for a specific service, we will give you a quote that clarifies exactly how we will get the job done. Contact our team to get started.

Summer Maintenance Tips for Your Trailer

Summer Maintenance Tips for Your TrailerAs spring comes to an end, it's time to make sure that the wear and tear from winter's cold and spring's rain will not affect your summer hauls. Pay special attention to your brakes, tires, grease, and suspension, as these will be the most likely to break down if not treated with care. You can avoid a large headache and expensive problem by prioritizing trailer service and repair before the summer gets into full swing. 

Brakes

Think back to the last time your brakes were replaced. Has it been more than 12 months? If so, you should definitely consider replacing them, for safety reasons. Also, think about how much wear and tear has gone into your brakes during the last year. Have you been in a lot of traffic, therefore braking more frequently? Have you been descending steep grades? Measure the thickness of your brake pads and determine your next steps. Usually, you can hear the squeal or grind when you apply your brakes, but sometimes the road noise prevents you from getting this warning. As always, don't wait until you know there is a problem. Proactively prevent problems before they become major issues. 

Tires 

Tires are expensive, but a necessary expense to keep your fleet operating efficiently. Walk around your trailer and check the depth of each tire tread to ensure the tires are not going bald. Also, check the pressure. A visual inspection of rocks, thorns, nails, screws, and other punctures may prove wise here as well. Having a blowout on a highway in the heat of summer is no one's idea of a successful haul.Keep in mind that some small punctures can be patched, while others may require the tire to be replaced. If you need to replace a tire, consider also replacing the other tire on the same axle, to ensure that the two tires wear evenly. If the expenses catch you off-guard or worry you, just imagine how much more worried and stressed you will be if your entire rig breaks down due to something that you could have prevented. Remember the old adage: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Grease 

Gears and hydraulics simply have to operate smoothly if you are to stay in business. If the gears grind together, you will be facing a major mechanical malfunction. Remember which type of grease you originally used, and apply the same. New applications of the same grease type will wash out the old, dirty residue and keep your trailer operating efficiently and safely. 

Suspension

In order to keep your ride moving along smoothly, and to ensure the stability of your load, all high-impact elements of your suspension system should be inspected. Visually assess any fasteners, welds, and overall levelness of the trailer. Ensure that all bolts are secured where they should be and that there is no component interference with the pivot connection. Air springs, axle connections, and shock absorbers should all be without bend or rust. If any fasteners are loose, tighten them to the correct torque specifications. 

Visit MacFarlane for Expert Trailer Service and Repair

Many aspects of trailer maintenance can be attempted on your own, but if you find yourself out of your element, give us a call or schedule an appointment on our website. We will be happy to diagnose any problems we see, offer you a good deal on the parts we have in stock and provide potential solutions if a new trailer is what you need. We have at least 10 different types of high-quality trailers, including flatbeds, single-axle, tandem-axle, and tilt-beds.