[This article was originally published in 2019 by Trucks, Parts, Service. It has been updated to include more timely information.]
Trailer maintenance often takes a backseat to servicing the truck, but it’s vital to ensure all components are working properly.
While trailers obviously are less complex than powered vehicles, there still are key areas that require regular checks.
A quality on-time preventive maintenance inspection for trailers is the best way to increase uptime, decrease running cost, ensure safety and prevent violations, says Matt Krasney, vice president of fleet management for Penske Truck Leasing.
The most neglected maintenance areas on trailers are the kingpin, the brakes and lubrication, says Cindy Crawford, group director of maintenance and engineering for Ryder Fleet Management Solutions.
A list of weekly and monthly checks should be developed to complement a driver’s pre- and post-trip inspections, says Mark Sabol, platform product manager for East Manufacturing.
“It’s about visual inspection,” says Steve Zaborowski, senior vice president for Xtra Lease. “If you see something’s wrong, you investigate it. If you see something that just doesn’t look right, you shouldn’t just let it ride. You should stop, take a look at it, and make sure the system is working in accordance with how it was planned to be used.”
