A lot of attention is focussed toward water safety, however boating starts when you leave home with the boat in tow. Trailers need regular checks and maintenance.
While the boat is on the water also take time to check the trailer frame for wear and tear, cracks at bends, joints, springs and welded areas. Inspect the rollers to make sure they are rotating freely.
Tyres should have plenty of tread and be in good condition without any cracking. Make sure the wheel nuts are properly tightened and check tyre pressure. Wheel bearings should be in good condition and well packed with lubricating grease.
Towing hitch and safety chains, D-shackle should have a break load limit rated at least 1.5 times greater than the total trailer weight. A properly loaded and balanced trailer is essential. The centre of gravity should be as low as possible with weight distributed evenly or preferably 60% of the boats weight on the front part of the trailer.
The boat must be properly secured to the trailer. The winch/cable strap should be tight. The stern should be secured with ratchet type tie downs.
Rinsing and cleaning your trailer with Salt-Away can save maintenance costs in the long run.