How to Maintain Your Trailer Axle

Trailer axles are one of the most vital yet overlooked components of the towing industry intended to carry massive loads and protect your goods. Just like any component that is central to the operation of a given device, it needs constant attention and maintenance. It is quite unfortunate that most trailer owners only remember their axles when they are not working properly and by this time it is very hard to remedy the situation. Axle failure is one of the most devastating challenges that a trailer can encounter and results in complex, messy, and even dangerous conditions on the road.

Understanding Trailer Axles

Before diving into its maintenance, it's important to understand that there are two major types of trailer axles on the market today. We have torsional trailer axles and leaf spring trailer axles. Although, the flow of work differs these are roughly the same for both maintenance types. Torsional axles make use of rubber cords enclosed in a square tube in the suspension while on the other hand, leaf spring axles employ more of spring. Irrespective of the type, one ought to ensure that the maintenance of the device is done professionally.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance

Maintaining your trailer axles is not only about avoiding trailer axle failure. It should be about safety, getting longevity out of the trailer and safeguarding the money that was invested. Axles, as we know, are one of several limited moving parts in a trailer hence supporting the entire weight of the cargo. This makes them prone to high stress and fatigue and thus always calls for frequent inspection and servicing.

Key Maintenance Tips for Trailer Axles

1. Keep It Clean

Probably one of the most crucial yet easiest jobs in maintaining your vehicle is to ensure that your axles are cleaned. However, dust, dirt and debris can also pile on the moving parts of the axle, without the trailer being in use for some time. This buildup can eventually cause more stress to be applied onto the bearings and at other times conceals initial signs of possible failures. To clean your axles,

1. Use a strong spray of water from a hose to remove loose dirt and debris.
2. Pay special attention to areas under the trailer hitch and between brake pads.
3. For stubborn grime, use a degreaser or mild soap, but be sure to rinse thoroughly.
4. After cleaning, allow the axle to dry completely before applying any lubricant.

2. Repack the Bearings

As for the axle system, the trailer wheel bearings hold a rather central place. They enable free rotation of the wheels and also have the effect of part of the load that your trailer is carrying being equally shared. Gears in these bearing systems consist of rolling elements and several rollers and can accumulate grease over the years or even get contaminated and this causes more friction plus failure if not noticed. To repack the bearings;

1. Remove the wheel from the trailer axle.
2. Take off the hub to access the bearings.
3. Clean the old grease from the bearings using a suitable solvent.
4. Inspect the bearings for any signs of wear or damage.
5. Pack new grease into the bearings and hub.
6. Reassemble everything carefully.

3. Lubricate the Axle

Similar to the bearings, the axle also requires lubrication from time to time especially in between the shafts. This eliminates contact between two rubbing surfaces and can go a long way in increasing the lifespan of your axle. When lubricating note the following

1. Use a high-quality grease specifically designed for trailer axles.
2. Apply the grease to all moving parts, including any grease fittings on the axle.
3. Be careful not to over-grease, as excess grease can attract dirt and debris.

4. Address Moisture Issues

The single natural foe of trailer axles is moisture. It can penetrate different sections of the axle system, thinning out grease and even reaching out to result in rust and corrosion. This is rather disadvantageous especially in aquatic regions or with boats and trailers immersing in water most of the time. To combat moisture;

1. Regularly inspect your axles for signs of water ingress or rust.
2. If you've been through water (like at a boat ramp), check your axles afterward.
3. Consider using water-resistant grease for added protection.
4. If possible, store your trailer in a dry location when not in use.

5. Check Tire Condition and Pressure

While not directly part of the axle, tires play a crucial role in axle performance. Improperly inflated or worn tires can put extra stress on your axles. Regularly check;

1. Tire pressure (including spare tires)
2. Tread wear
3. Any signs of damage or dry rot

6. Inspect for Wear and Damage

Regular visual inspections can catch potential problems before they become serious.

1. Look for Cracks or bends in the axle,
2. Loose or missing bolts
3. Signs of rust or corrosion
4. Uneven tire wear (which could indicate alignment issues)

7. Pay Attention to Performance

As you tow be conscious of the performance of your trailer. Some of the signs that might indicate that axles are faulty include; Noise, vibration, or any problems with handling a car might indicate that axles are faulty. That is why if there is anything that looks peculiar it is advisable to consult a professional as early as possible.

8. Keep Maintenance Records

Keeping track of when you carried out certain services on the axle will assist in remembering when you need to service it again. It can also be very useful information when it comes to such situations as selling your trailer or dealing with insurance companies.

Conclusion

Taking care of your trailer axle parts is not just to prevent trailer breakdown on the road or failure of your trailer components; it is for safety, for the value of your investment and for that peace of mind each time before you park your trailer.  If the above axle care tips are followed and the maintenance is regularly done then the life cycle of your trailer is improved and many of the issues that blow up with the neglected trailers are avoided. 

Just remember though that no matter the size of the utility trailer you are towing or the gigantic recreational vehicle, the procedure for axle maintenance will pretty much be the same. This is because axles are always exposed to different terrains and should therefore be cleaned, lubricated and inspected from time to time to ensure they are in good condition at all times. There are times when you may feel justified to inspect or assume certain aspects of an axle or come up with a way to fix them without any help from someone else; if you are in any doubt about any aspect of an axle you should not proceed without consulting with a professional. There is also the fact that the small extra expenses you make will save you a lot of money in the long run concerning repair and safety costs in the future.

The Trailer Parts Outlet, founded in 2013, is a solution-driven parts distributor renowned for its industry savvy team members and the custom tailored solutions we provide for every customer. We embody CASS (Convenience, Access, Speed, Simplicity) offering a wide array of trailer repair parts for the hard-working trailer community. Our unparalleled speed and simplicity set us apart, ensuring swift delivery of solutions to get you back on the road. As a company, we genuinely care for our customers, creating lasting relationships and a community of doers. Choose us for quality, reliability, and excellent service steeped in our unique CASS approach.