On the Road Again!

by Terrie Vickers

One of the first things I like to get ready is the trailer. This is just one of the necessary things we have to do before hitting the road. A lot of women are doing this by themselves and the best advice is to be prepared. .As such there are several steps to getting your trailer prepared for the season.

1. Check tires for wear and replace if the tread is getting thin. Make sure to check the spare also and make sure that it can be removed from its mounting. Over time the mounting may rust and having a rusted on spare is not too much fun if you’re stranded on the road. Also check the lug nuts on all tires to make sure they are tightened.

2. Have a tire gage and use it often. The proper tire inflation can usually be found on the outside of the tire, if not find out the proper pressure from your local tire dealer.

3. Have a jack and know how to use it. Even better is to have a trailer ramp, I think the trailer ramp it is lot easier and safer to use. Also make sure you have a lug wrench and make sure you loosen the lug nuts before jacking or using the trailer ramp!

4. Check your electrical connection to the truck and make sure there are not exposed wires or loose connections.

5. Check the trailer lights to make sure they are all working properly. Replace any broken or burned out bulbs. Get someone to help you to make sure that the turn signals and brake lights are working properly.

6. When is the last time you had the bearings greased? If you can’t remember, its time. Depending on your trailer use, they should probably be greased every other year. Have your trailer brakes checked when you have this done.

7. You might want to pack safety flares or reflectors to warn other motorists.

8. Finally, if you don’t know how to change a tire on your truck or trailer learn!