* Keep it clean. Be sure to rinse your trailer thoroughly after each use.

* With painted trailers, use a good car wax to protect the finish. Your dealer should be able to provide touch-up paint for repairing minor rock damage.

* Regularly check all nuts and bolts to ensure they are tight.

* Inspect and lubricate the wheel bearings and coupler at least yearly. Look for any unusual wear or damage.

* On roller trailers, keep all rollers clean. It's not often that bunkers or rollers need replacement, but a quick inspection will show any problems.

* Check tires weekly for unusual wear. When on the road, don't cut corners too tight. Running over curbs or cutting corners can damage the sidewalls of your tires and damage your axles.

* Check tire pressure before every trip. This is one of the most important factors in tire life. Tires should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer for the load.

* Remember when buying spares or replacement tires, check that the GVWR weight rating is the same as the originals.

* Check the lights and electrical components. Hook the trailer to your vehicle and make sure all lights are working - both running lights and turn signals.

* Check the lenses for cracks and breaks and replace if necessary.

* Spray the connections with contact spray to keep the connectors clean and corrosion free (especially important around saltwater.)

* Last, but very important, cris-cross the safety chains when you attach the trailer to your vehicle.

Credits: Our thanks to the experts at ShoreLand'r Trailers for these tips.

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