You bought a new semi-trailer. You may have seen the perfect unit for sale on the Kingpin Trailers website and decided to invest for the long term, or you may have dealt with too much inconsistency and frequent repairs from used units.
If this is your first time buying new, you might be nervous about how long this more expensive investment will last. A good-quality semi-trailer has a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, and you want yours to reach the far end of that range. Here are a few tips on how to keep your semi-trailer running well into the next decade.
Drive Safe!
Driving safely may seem obvious, but it’s important enough to bear repeating. Of course, the primary benefit of safe driving is keeping you and others on the road safe, but your semi-trailer will thank you, too.
Sudden stops, curb hits, and unscheduled visits to the ditch will wreak havoc on your brakes, suspension, and alignment. Remember the fundamentals and stay mindful of your environment, and you will greatly increase your semi-trailer’s lifespan.
Do your daily checkup
It may feel like a hassle some days, but doing a daily checkup pre and post-haul will help you locate small problems before they become big. Problem areas of your semi-trailer include the brakes, lights, and tires, but there will be more depending on the semi-trailer you own.
If you work for an established trucking company, you probably have an inspection checklist you’re required to use, but if you are a solo business hauling a single Hy-Cube around the country, there are plenty of online resources to help create your own.
Keep it clean
Dirt, grime, and road salt eventually break down any vehicle. Keeping your semi-trailer as clean as possible will help improve its lifespan. You should clean the exterior every four weeks in normal conditions and at least once per week in winter. This not only prevents long-term corrosion but will also improve handling and enhance safety while driving.
For the inside of your semi-trailer, sweep or vacuum it after every haul and have it professionally cleaned if you notice food waste or a spill.
Remember your maintenance schedule
Remember your monthly, 6-month, and yearly inspections. Preventative maintenance is one of the most important steps to retaining your semi-trailer’s health, as it helps you spot problems that you may otherwise miss. After your first inspection, you should receive a date for your next professional inspection; be sure to get your trailer in a shop by that date or earlier.
Keep yourself up to date
Regulations and best practices can change with little warning, making it crucial to keep an eye on new rules for your specific area, as well as any regions you may haul to/from. These changes are sometimes for the benefit of trucks and trailers: there may be a recently-developed piece of equipment, cargo loading method, or driving technique that could reduce strain on your semi-trailer in ways the industry has only now discovered.
If anyone else is using your equipment, make sure that they are aware of these changes during your next safety meeting.
Preventative Maintenance and Purchases at Kingpin
Professional maintenance is key to extending your semi-trailer’s lifespan to the fullest, and Kingpin is dedicated to top-notch maintenance and repair. Dealing with several brands of semi-trailers, we are a one-stop shop for sales, service, and expert advice on taking care of your investment.
Set up routine maintenance, make a purchase, and get informed on what you can do to keep your semi-trailer healthy today!
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