The Complete Towable Equipment Maintenance Guide
Trailers, towable generators, and equipment need regular maintenance too, even though they don't have engines (usually). This guide covers utility trailers, enclosed trailers, boat trailers, car haulers, towable generators, and towable air compressors. We include wheel bearing repacking and inspection, brake adjustment and pad replacement (electric and surge brakes), tire pressure and wear, lighting and wiring checks, coupler and safety chain inspection, frame and cross-member rust prevention, jack and stabilizer maintenance, and seasonal storage prep. If your towable has an engine (generators, compressors), we also cover engine oil, air filter, and fuel system maintenance.
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Intervals Based on Manufacturer Recommendations
These intervals are compiled from trailer and towable equipment manufacturer guidelines. Boat trailers and salt-exposed equipment need shorter intervals. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual for model-specific requirements. For personalized reminders, download LookOver free on iOS and Android.
| Service Task | Pre-Trip Every use | 3,000 Miles ~6 months | 6,000 Miles ~12 months | Annual Yearly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Check tire pressure and condition | - | - | - | |
Check all lights and wiring | - | - | - | |
Inspect coupler and safety chains | - | - | - | |
Check brake operation | - | - | - | |
Visual frame inspection | - | - | - | |
Verify hitch connection | - | - | - | |
Check jack operation | - | - | - | |
Grease wheel bearings (or check bearing buddies) | - | |||
Inspect brake pads/shoes | - | |||
Check and adjust brakes | - | |||
Inspect leaf springs and suspension | - | - | ||
Check lug nut torque | - | - | ||
Inspect wiring for damage | - | |||
Repack wheel bearings (if not sealed) | - | - | ||
Replace brake pads/shoes if worn | - | - | ||
Inspect brake drums/rotors | - | - | ||
Inspect axle for damage | - | - | ||
Check frame for rust and treat | - | - | ||
Inspect breakaway cable and battery | - | - | ||
Full bearing service | - | - | - | |
Complete brake inspection and adjustment | - | - | - | |
Inspect and treat frame rust | - | - | - | |
Check all fasteners | - | - | - | |
Inspect floor/deck boards | - | - | - | |
Storage prep | - | - | - | |
Check registration and inspection | - | - | - |
Track Your Trailer Maintenance
Set mileage reminders for bearing service, brake adjustment, and tire replacement. Free on iOS and Android.
Wheel Bearings: The Most Critical Trailer Maintenance
A seized bearing at highway speed is dangerous and expensive. Regular greasing and repacking prevents catastrophic failure.
Never Forget Bearing Service
A seized bearing on the highway ruins your day. Set reminders and log every repack.
Trailer Brakes: Electric, Surge, and Breakaway
Most trailers over 3,000 lbs GVWR require brakes. Properly adjusted brakes prevent sway, reduce stopping distance, and save your tow vehicle's brakes.
Trailer Tires: Different From Car Tires
Trailer tires (ST-rated) are built differently than passenger tires. They have stiffer sidewalls to handle heavy loads but age out faster.
Frame, Wiring, and Structural Integrity
Rust never sleeps. Regular inspection and treatment keeps your trailer structurally sound and road-legal.
Seasonal Storage and Prep
A few hours of prep before parking your trailer for the off-season prevents expensive surprises when you need it again.
Pre-Storage Checklist
- Clean the entire trailer; remove dirt, debris, and road salt
- Inspect and treat any rust spots before they spread over winter
- Grease the coupler, jack mechanism, and all pivot points
- Disconnect and charge the breakaway battery
- Cover with a breathable tarp or trailer cover
Tire and Wheel Storage
- Inflate tires to maximum sidewall pressure
- Block tires off the ground to prevent flat spots if possible
- Cover tires to protect from UV damage and ozone cracking
- Consider tire cradles or plywood pads if storing on gravel or dirt
- Check tire age; replace before next season if over 5 years old
Bearing and Brake Prep
- Repack or grease wheel bearings before long-term storage
- Back off brake adjusters slightly to prevent shoes from bonding to drums
- Check brake fluid level (surge brake trailers)
- Spray brake components with corrosion inhibitor
Spring Recommission
- Check tire pressure and inspect for flat spots or cracking
- Test all lights, replace any failed bulbs or LEDs
- Charge or replace breakaway battery
- Re-torque all lug nuts and check wheel bearings for play
- Verify registration, inspection, and insurance are current
Go Deeper
Track all your service intervals in one place. LookOver handles hours, miles, and dates so you never miss a service. Download free on iOS and Android.
READY TO RIDE MORE?
Download LookOver now and take control of your machine maintenance. It's free to use. No credit card required.