Your Horse Trailer Maintenance Schedule

Horse trailer maintenance can get complicated. With so many important tasks to perform, it can be helpful to organize everything into a standard schedule. That is why True Value Trailers & Power Equipment has created this guide to horse trailer maintenance scheduling. 

Tire Check

Start by making sure that the tires on both your trailer and your tow vehicle are inflated to the manufacturer-recommended air pressure. This will help increase your fuel efficiency and reduce your chances of experiencing a blowout. Then check the condition of your tire’s treads. Unusual wear patterns or excessive wearing can indicate a larger problem. 

Check the Brakes and Lights

Test your brakes by moving your horse trailer a short distance and then braking. Your brakes should perform as intended, with no odd sounds or shaking. Then have a friend help you confirm that the brake lights, turn signals, and running lights are all working properly. Replace any non-functioning bulbs. 

The Day of the Trip

On the day of your trip, complete a safety inspection. Make sure that the breakaway system is hooked up correctly and the safety chains are attached. Also check that all doors, ramps, dividers, and butt/chest bars are secure and that any wires are intact with no debris hanging on them. 

Cleaning

You should clean out any manure or urine-soaked bedding after each trip. Then remove the rubber mats and clean the floor. If your horse trailer has been exposed to materials meant to de-ice the road, is about to be put into storage, or has just gone a while without being cleaned, you should give it a thorough wash. Finally, check the chains, breakaway system, hitch, and electrical plug to make sure that there is no damage. 

Routine Maintenance

We recommend getting your horse trailer professionally serviced at least once every year. Professional experience and know-how will be invaluable when it comes to maintaining your horse trailer’s brakes, wheel bearings, tires, axle attachment bolts, and welds. This regular check-up can catch maintenance problems while they are still small and easy to manage, so do not skip this step. 

We also suggest that you give your horse trailer a thorough washing and waxing every year. Waxing helps create a protective layer around your horse trailer. Finally, grease the door hinges to help ensure that they open and close smoothly. 

For more information or to view our selection of horse trailers, visit True Value Trailers & Power Equipment. We have dealerships in Penrose and Florence, CO. We also offer parts, servicing, and financing. We are proud to serve communities like Pueblo and Colorado Springs, Colorado.