The importance of semi-truck trailers cannot be overstated, which is why Midlane Truck & Trailer Repair maintains and repairs them. The trailer has the difficult task of storing the heavy load, which places incredible stress on the wheels, tires, and trailer suspension. The trailer also has a lighting system that must work when it’s dark to keep truckers safe. Here are five common problems we run into with trailers.
1. Brake System Trouble
A semi-truck’s trailer has its own set of wheels and brakes to stop them. Maintaining the trailer braking system is crucial to the rig’s safety and reliability. The trailer has an air brake system that must be checked regularly for pressure leaks, the most common problem, and other issues. Because the trailer hauls the load, the brakes must be in the best condition possible to ensure they can stop the rig even when weighed down.
2. Exterior/Interior Structure Damage
Whether flatbed or framed, the trailer body must remain in good shape to house and protect the load during the haul. Structural damage weakens the trailer, and this could lead to a devastating failure. It’s important to inspect the trailer’s stability, especially the roofs of framed trailers, to ensure no structural weakening, cracks, holes, or leaks. It’s also important to ensure the doors on framed trailers seal as they should.
3. Lighting/Electrical System Issues
Trailers are an extension of the semi-truck’s cab, as are the trailer lights. Depending on the trailer type, an independent electrical system will maintain climate control in a refrigerated trailer, hydraulic control on platform trailers, and the trailer’s air brake system. Regular inspection of the trailer’s electrical system is crucial to ensure you don’t end up with a lighting issue or refrigeration failure on the rig during a long or short haul.
4. Suspension Failure
A semi-truck trailer’s suspension protects the load and helps the wheels handle the load’s weight. Crucial suspension parts wear down quickly on semi-truck trailers. Trailer suspension also keeps the rig’s axles in place, and broken suspension parts can be dangerous. Common problems include broken spring hangers and leaf spring leaves, leaking shocks, a cracked torque road or u-bolts, and air suspension system failure.
5. Tire Problems
Finally, semi-trucks cannot afford to have a blowout or other tire trouble when they’re on the road. Regular tire inspections ensure the tires have plenty of tread and are free of other damage, such as warping or cracking. Tire air pressure is also critical to ensure the load weight is properly supported. We replace tires when they need it to make certain the driver and the semi-truck’s load are safe from blowouts and flats.
Call Midlane Truck & Trailer Repair in Eugene, OR, to schedule a semi-truck and trailer inspection before your next haul.