As a car trailer manufacturer or outfitter based in Texas, ensuring your trailers operate safely under the sweltering heat, dust, and long hauls is vital. Thorough maintenance of hydraulic decks, braking systems, and electrical wiring is essential not just for durability, but for road safety as well.
1. Hydraulic Deck Servicing
Hydraulic decks which raise, lower, or tilt the trailer bed rely on clean, leak-free fluid and smooth mechanical parts.
- Inspect fluid levels and condition
Top up with the correct hydraulic fluid, ensuring it’s free from contaminants and moisture this preserves hydraulic pressure and avoids corrosion. - Check hoses, seals, and cylinders
Look for leaks, cracks, or worn seals, especially in Texas’s harsh heat which can accelerate deterioration. Replace as needed. - Lubricate moving parts
Use appropriate grease on pivot points, pins, and zag levels to prevent wear and ensure smooth operation.
2. Brakes: Hydraulic, Surge & Electric Systems
Brakes on trailers can be hydraulic, surge (a type of hydraulic), or electric/hybrid each needs tailored attention.
Hydraulic (Surge) Brakes
- Fluid checks: Maintain fluid at recommended levels usually half-full to within ½ inch of the top of the master cylinder using DOT-3 or DOT-4 fluid.
- Routine bleeding: Flush hydraulic brake fluid every couple of years to remove moisture and avoid corrosion or brake fade especially critical in humid Texas climates.
Electric Brakes
- Adjust via star-wheel: Jack up the trailer, use a screwdriver to adjust brake shoes via the star-wheel until there’s slight drag but wheels still rotate freely.
- Test breakaway system: Check the emergency brake’s battery and pull-pin switch. When the pin is pulled, the trailer should resist being towed. Reinsert after test.
- Synchronize brake controller: The tow vehicle’s controller must be set properly so both trailer and vehicle brakes engage together not one locking up.
- Inspect magnets annually: Electric brake magnets wear over time inspect per the manufacturer or every ~12,000 miles.
General Brake Maintenance
- Visual inspections: Look for wear on pads/shoes, drum or rotor damage, leaks, and uneven wear.
- Lubricate mechanical parts: Keep actuators, springs, and pivots well-greased to prevent squeaking and extend lifespan.
- Dealer inspections: For hydraulic systems, have a dealer inspect annually or per vehicle schedule.
3. Electrical System Maintenance
An often overlooked but crucial component especially under Texas’s dusty and storm prone conditions.
- Inspect wiring and connections
Regularly check for frayed wires, loose terminals, and signs of corrosion. Use dielectric grease on connectors to block moisture. - Test lighting and signals
Before every haul, test running lights, brake lights, turn signals, and load-bearing brake signal functionality. - Monitor wiring design
Ensure brake circuits are separate from lighting to avoid interference or unwanted brake engagement. Confirm wiring size meets load demand to prevent voltage drops.
4. Texas-Specific Considerations
- Climate stress: High heat accelerates fluid breakdown, rubber aging, and wiring wear schedule more frequent inspections and fluid changes in summer months.
- Dust and road contaminants: Regular deep cleaning especially chassis and undercarriage helps spot issues early and keeps connections clean.
- Load management: Trailer load balance impacts brake performance and wear, making electric/hydraulic syncing and inspection even more critical.
Summary Checklist
Hydraulic DeckCheck fluid, inspect hoses/seals, lubricate moving parts
Hydraulic BrakesTop up and bleed fluid, inspect wear/leaks, dealer annual check
Electric BrakesAdjust star-wheel, test breakaway, sync controller, inspect magnets
Electrical SystemClean connectors, test lights/brakes, isolate circuits, check wiring size
By following these best practices tailored specifically for Texas car trailer manufacturers, your trailers will deliver better performance, safer operation, and longer life even in demanding local conditions. Quality maintenance reflects the excellence and reliability your brand stands for.