The following guide answers the popular question – What Should You Look For When Buying a Used Trailer?
If you are looking to buy a used trailer, it’s important to know what to look for.
It’s important to inspect the trailer floor, wheels and tires, body and exterior, axles and suspension, and the title.
5 Things to Look At When Buying a Used Trailer
Trailers, like any type of tool or equipment, are prone to wear and tear over time.
Buying a used trailer can save you money, but before you seal the deal – there are a few important components you should check. Failure to inspect the used trailer can end up costing you time and money for costly repairs.
1. Trailer Floor
Often overlooked, a trailer’s floor is one of the most important aspects to inspect closely. The floor of the trailer provides stability to the rest of the unit. When inspecting the trailer’s floorboards, it’s important to check for dampness, rot, or corrosion. In regions with harsh winter weather conditions, the buildup of salt or ice melt can cause the trailer floor supports to degrade over time.
2. Wheels & Tires
When inspecting your used trailer tires, there are three things to look for:
- Uneven tread – Uneven tire tread can indicate a potential problem with the axles
- Tire pressure – Low tire pressure can indicate tire damage or air loss
- Tire size – The tires must be designed for the trailer and are the correct size.
3. Body and Exterior
Noticeable damage or rust on the exterior of your trailer can be a sign that something may be wrong. If there is damage, the trailer likely was in an accident and you must be aware of exactly what happened. Not knowing the trailer’s accident and service history can warrant problems in the future.
4. Trailer Axles and Springs
Often overlooked, the axles and springs on a trailer take the brunt of the trailer’s wear and tear. Before purchasing a used trailer, always inspect the springs, axles and brackets for any signs of damage. Bent, misaligned or damaged axles will eat up the trailer’s tires, resulting in them needing to be replaced more often.
If you purchase a trailer that you think may have axle problems, BlueSwift Axles can help you diagnose the problem and offer 48-hour shipping for replacements.
5. Check the Title of your Trailer
The used trailer must have a clean and clear title. The seller should be able to provide information about any previous owners and the trailer history of repairs or servicing.
A clean title means the trailer has not received any damage that may deem it a total loss.
A clear title means there is no financial lien on the trailer preventing it from being sold.
Get a Second Opinion on your Used Trailer
If you are considering purchasing a used trailer, it is important to thoroughly inspect the trailer before purchase. Well-maintained trailers with limited usage can last for years to come. If you are unsure if the trailer is in good condition, it can be a good idea to have a mechanic inspect the trailer before purchasing.
See our video below for more information on BlueSwift Axles and the solutions we can provide for you.