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Tips for Keeping Your Trailer in Tip-Top Shape This Winter
Monday, November 28, 2011
 PITTSBURGH, PA - A perfect boat is no good if it's on a bad trailer. These four tips for off-season care, courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary, will help make your trailer last and get your boat back in the water as soon as the new boating season begins.
1. TREES -- Trees are trouble, so avoid them. Snow, ice, and tree limbs can cause damage. Leaves and pine needles can cause staining and clog up drain holes.
2. TILT -- Tilt the bow up and let gravity work for you. Place a small block under the trailer jack and tie the drain plug to your ignition key. Also, make sure the boat's cover is tight and is keeping out the water.
3. TLC -- Take care of the trailer. Stay on top of little things to prevent major problems later. If you haven't done so already, find time to spray a good lubricant on metal trailer roller assemblies, winch gears, and electrical connections to prevent rust. Sand, prime, and paint any rust spots now on the galvanized metal trailer frame.
4. TIRES -- Take them off -- trailers don't need tires in the winter. Remove the tires to deter theft, and store them in the garage or shed to avoid sun damage. With the tires off, check and repack the bearings as needed. Block the frame and tie sturdy plastic bags over the hubs and brakes to keep them dry. If you will not be removing the tires, be sure to face the trailer away from the street and use a heavy-duty lock. (Why tempt thieves with easy access to an expensive boat?) Cover the tires with bags and make sure they are resting on a piece of plywood or plank to prevent dry rot. To avoid flat spots on the tires, move the trailer periodically a few inches throughout the winter.
Following these tips will help you be one of the first boaters underway when the weather warms up, and you'll be starting an extended boating season while other boaters are still stuck in their driveways waiting for expensive trailer repairs.
Submitted by:
U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary
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