If you are planning on buying a trailer, there are some essential parts that you should be aware of. They can make all the difference between a successful trip and one plagued with problems and inconveniences.
Getting high-quality trailer parts is crucial to ensure durability and lasts a long. If you buy lower-quality items, they could break or become worn down quickly.
Tires
Trailer tires are one of the most critical parts of your trailer. They can make or break your trailer’s performance and safety, so picking them carefully is essential.
Consider the work your trailer has to complete and the kinds of cargo it can haul as you browse for tires on AmericanListed. The tire’s internal structure can be harmed by heavy loads, which can also hasten tread degradation, reduce pressure, and result in blowouts and punctures.
Trailer tires come in radial and bias-ply constructions suited for different applications. For example, radial tires are known for their heat-resistant performance, while bias-ply tires offer better heavy-load durability.
Brakes
Brakes are a vital safety feature on any vehicle and can be especially important for trailers. It is because a trailer can weigh significantly more than a tow vehicle and requires more points of braking contact.
Depending on your needs, there are different brakes, including electric and surge brakes. Before selecting the finest system for your trailer, it is best to familiarize yourself with each one, as each has pros and cons of its own.
The most common trailer brakes are electric, requiring an electric brake controller mounted in the tow vehicle. Once activated, the brake lights come on, and voltage is sent to the magnets that engage the trailer’s brakes. It allows for the ultimate control of your trailer’s braking, which can significantly benefit you when driving down hills.
Fenders
A fender is a curved shield that covers a truck’s tire. This shield prevents the tire from hurling debris like mud, rocks, ice chips, and other road hazards onto the pavement.
Fenders are a safety necessity on all trucks. They help you maintain a safe driving environment and save time/money by reducing the chance of an accident.
They also add a finished appearance to your vehicle that can showcase your pride in your work and equipment.
There are many different types of fenders to choose from. Some are made of aluminum or steel, while others are molded from fiberglass or polyethylene.
Electrical
Aside from the usual tow vehicle electrical hook-ups, trailers must be wired for lighting, notably tail lights, brake, and turn signals. It is vital for safety as it makes it easier for following vehicles to see your trailer.
Electricity is a flow of electrons that can be measured by its voltage (voltage is the potential energy a current can carry).
The term circuit comes from the fact that it is a path used to transmit electricity.
The aforementioned is made possible by electronic circuits that allow electric currents to be sent and received in ways that weren’t feasible before. The best way to think of them is as pathways between the power source, like a battery or wall outlet, and the device at the other end of the chain that uses it.
Lighting
Trailer lighting is vital for both safety and keeping your trailer legal. It lets other drivers know your trailer’s location and what you’re doing.
Each state’s motor vehicle department has standards for trailer lights. You’ll need at least one amber side clearance light ahead of the front axle, a red side clearance behind the axle, and tail, turn, and stop lights on both sides of your trailer.
For larger trailers, you’ll need more lights. Most trailers over 80 inches wide need three red identification lights on the rear and clearance and identification lights on both sides.
Structural
Structural trailer parts are essential to the safety and performance of your trailer. They can help prevent damage and even make your trailer look better.
There are many structural trailer parts to choose from, and each one can serve a different purpose. Opt for high-quality parts to maximize your investment and avoid expensive repairs.
Structural components, including wheels, axles, brakes, hitches, lights, and more, are essential to a solid trailer. It’s also vital to find trailer parts compatible with your vehicle. It will prevent damage to your engine and other parts of your car. Choosing a reputable supplier to help you get all your trailer parts in one place is also a good idea. They will also provide customer service to keep your trailer running efficiently.
Stowage
Trailers are an essential part of the road transport system that facilitates the haulage of bulky goods locally or regionally. They require regular maintenance and replacement of spare parts to ensure that they remain operational.
The most crucial aspect to consider while buying spare trailer parts is compatibility. Incompatible components can impede their functionality and may lead to engine damage.
An excellent way to avoid such a problem is by choosing a vendor that offers installation services.
It is crucial since trailer spare parts are often technical and must be installed by skilled technicians. Moreover, it would be best to choose vendors offering product warranties. Also, opt for a vendor with a local presence in your area for convenience.
Axles
Axles are a crucial part of any vehicle. They support the car’s weight and rotate the wheels to move it forward.
A truck will usually have at least two axles. They are located at the front and rear of the car.
Modern passenger cars use split axles, where the wheel on each side is connected to a separate shaft. It allows for independent suspension and a smoother ride.
A tandem axle is a collection of two or more closely spaced-apart axles. This configuration increases the weight capacity of the truck or semi-trailer.
Hitch
A hitch is a trailer part that attaches to the back end of your truck and provides a coupling point for hooking up your trailer. It’s a crucial part of your towing system and should be installed correctly to haul anything safely.
There are several hitches to choose from, depending on your vehicle type and your towing needs. Some are more durable and cheaper than others.
Whether planning a camping trip or want to free up some space in your car, a hitch cargo rack is the perfect way to transport your gear. These hitch-mounted cargo carriers are easy to install and fold up for storage when not in use. They’re also made from durable materials and feature safety reflectors for a safe ride.
Wheels
Wheels are a crucial part of a trailer’s function. They absorb both speeding up and braking forces so your trailer doesn’t spin out of control.
They also provide a smooth ride and help your trailer turn on its axis. Without them, you might end up in a fender bender on the side of the road!
The wheels on your trailer need to be aligned and adequately greased. If they’re not, they can seize up and cause severe damage to your trailer and anything you load inside.
They also need to be serviced and checked regularly for damage. It will save you money and time on costly repairs down the road.
