Used Trailer Buying Guide
Sometimes you can save a lot of money by buying a used trailer. However, buying a used trailer comes with its risks. There can be lots of problems with buying a used trailer. It is important to know the trailer history and the service intervals of the trailer. Along with trailer modifications and inspection history. Here are ten tips on what to look for when buying a used trailer that will help avoid a disaster:
1. Tires-
Look for cracks, plugged holes, matching size, and correct capacity. Most of the time, if the trailer is located at a dealership, they will replace the tires on the trailer so these possible problems can be avoided.
2. Brakes-
Ask about the condition of the brakes. Inspect the pads, drums, shoes, rotors, and magnets.
3. Bearings-
This is also a good time to make sure the bearings are lubricated and seated properly.
4. Suspension-
Check the leaf springs and spring hangers for cracks, breaks, and repairs. These are all indicators that the trailer has been overloaded or if the axles have shifted due to a sudden impact with something on the ground.
5. Frame-
Carefully inspect the frame for cracks or repairs. This will also show if the trailer has been overloaded.
6. Electrical-
Make sure the lights are working. If the lights do not function properly, find out why. It may be as simple as replacing the bulb, or a blown fuse on the truck.
7. Floor-
A trailer floor is probably the simplest component to replace.
8. Ramps-
The ramps should be designed to load almost any equipment the trailer is rated to carry. A checklist for ramp inspection includes length, width, straightness, cracks/repairs, strength, and how they are attached or stored on the trailer.
9. Previous Ownership-
Be sure the trailer is not stolen or borrowed. Ask for valid registration and verify the seller is the current owner. Determine if the VIN is stamped on the trailer, and matches all the related paperwork. Irregularities with the title may be an indication of stolen equipment.
10. Price-
There are rare occasions where a deal is so good it would be silly to pass it up. But this is the exception, you shouldn't be paying more for a used trailer than a new one. It is important to do some price checking to make sure you are getting a good deal.
Bonus-
Axle Replacement: a used trailer with the axles in the wrong position will be very difficult to load properly or tow safely behind a vehicle. Having the tongue weight too light or too heavy will lead to frustration, hazardous circumstances, and uneven wear on the trailer components.
Trailer History and Service Intervals
When looking at a used trailer, you don't know the exact history or service intervals the trailer has had. The first thing to do is make sure the trailer isn't stolen. Ask for valid registration and verify the seller is the current owner. After checking that the trailer is not stolen, the best way to understand a trailer's history is to ask for service interval paperwork to verify, for example, that wheel bearings and brakes have been serviced regularly. Ask the owner about their own service, such as greasing fittings, maintaining appropriate lug nut torque, ensuring the tires are always aired up to specification and more.
Trailer Modifications and Inspection
Used trailers may have zero, few, or extensive modifications from the previous owner. These can include: extra tie downs, shelving, racks, interior lighting, fans, vents, and more. Though many of these modifications may be beneficial to you, inspect the installation of these items to verify that the structural integrity of the trailer was not compromised. Examples include: drilling into the frame, bolting to the frame, poor welding, faulty wiring, leaky vents, etc. The best way to check that the trailer you are looking at is safe to drive with is to take it in for an inspection. A trailer service shop, like our service department, can inspect it for you.
Here, at North Carolina Trailer Sales we take trade-ins and sell used trailers. We do our best to give customers a great deal on a used trailer. If you are looking to trade-in a trailer or to purchase a used trailer, give us a call at (336) 203-8479!
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