If you’ve ever seen a boat trailer wobble on the road, you know it’s not a pretty sight. Trailer maintenance isn’t just for show—keeping things in tip-top shape is key to avoiding those “oh no” moments and, worse, costly repairs. You wouldn’t let your boat get all rusty, so why let your trailer do the same? Here are some boat trailer maintenance tips to keep you cruising smoothly without breaking the bank.

Tires: Don’t Let Them Go Flat

Trailer tires can get worn out fast, especially with a boat on top. Keep an eye out for cracks, bulges, or anything that looks suspicious. Low pressure is a no-go—it’s like running a marathon with one shoe on. Your trailer’s tire pressure is usually stamped on the side, so check it out and keep them inflated just right. Also, don’t forget about your spare tire—nobody likes surprises when they’re 50 miles from home.

And here’s a quick tip: If your trailer sits around a lot, even unused, tires can go bad from just sitting in the sun. That’s why it’s good practice to rotate them every couple of years, even if they don’t look worn out. Better safe than sorry.

Keep It Clean—It’s Not Just for Looks

Your trailer may look like it’s been through a mud bath, but letting grime and salt pile up can lead to some serious issues. After every trip, grab a hose and give your trailer a good rinse. Saltwater? It’s like the villain in a superhero movie, always trying to rust up your trailer. Freshwater trips are better, but you still want to clean off dirt and debris to avoid clogs in the brakes and to keep the wheels moving smoothly.

Don’t forget to clean the lights and electrical connections, either. One dead light can ruin a night trip. Just like you wouldn’t ignore a flickering headlight on your car, make sure your trailer lights are all working. It’s a simple fix that can save you from unwanted traffic stops.

Bearings and Brakes: The Backbone of the Trailer

Imagine driving with your brakes failing—sounds like a nightmare, right? It’s the same with boat trailers. Bearings need love, too. Grease them up every 6 months (or after every 1,000 miles if you’re on the road a lot). If you hear grinding noises or feel a little drag, that’s your trailer trying to tell you something. Listen to it.

Trailer brakes should be checked regularly. When you brake, they should stop smoothly. If you notice a soft pedal or no response, don’t ignore it. Just like your car brakes, the trailer brakes wear out over time, and replacing those pads can save you from a bigger problem down the road. You want the brakes to stop the trailer, not make it a “runaway boat.”

Lights & Wiring: Because Who Wants to Drive Blind?

Driving in the dark with flickering lights is frustrating and unsafe. Before you hit the road, check your trailer lights. Turn signals, brake lights, tail lights—everything should be working. And no, taping a flashlight to the back of the trailer is not a solution (trust me, I’ve seen it).

Rusty connectors can mess up your wiring, so check them for corrosion. If you’re not a wiring expert, don’t worry. It’s a simple fix, and even the DIYers among us can handle it with a little guidance. Don’t leave this to chance; your lights help keep you safe and legal.

Rust: The Silent Killer

Keep your trailer’s frame and components clean and regularly check for rust spots. If you spot any, don’t ignore it—touch them up with some paint before they spread like wildfire. A rusty trailer is like a rusty car—eventually, it’ll start falling apart, and you don’t want to be left on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck.

Your Trusted Source for Durable FLOE Trailers & Expert Maintenance in Montgomery, TX

With a little care and attention, your boat trailer will keep rolling along like a champ. Looking for a durable, reliable trailer to haul your gear? Pier 105 Marina has you covered with FLOE Trailers—built tough for the long haul. Whether you need a utility, enclosed, or CargoMax trailer, our FLOE models are designed to handle any load, all while providing easy maintenance and superior durability. Need service? Our experienced team is also here for all your boat and trailer maintenance needs, from routine checks to factory repairs.

Visit us in Montgomery, TX, or reach out to explore our trailer options and schedule your service today. Let us help you gear up for your next adventure.