Re: [RC] Spring time in Springtime? - Ed & Wendy Hauser
Unfortunately broken trailer springs are very
common. The reason is that at the shackles and the equalizer there are
bushings. The older ones are brass the newer are rubber. If the
brass bushings are not greased at least 1 time a year, preferably two times a
year, they eventually freeze. If you live in a humid climate, rust can
also happen between the pin and the rubber bushing, causing it to freeze.
If the bushings freeze, it is only a matter of time before a spring leaf
breaks. I never had a trailer with rubber bushings, so I don't know what
the maintenance recommendations are.
The good news is that most large cities have repair
shops that can make new leaves and get you going down the road. While
simple machines, horse trailers do require periodic maintenance. Lube the
springs, if so equipped. Repack wheel bearings every other year.
Inspect and repair brakes when repacking wheel bearings. Inspect the
coupler, and ball to make sure they are not worn at the same time. Inspect
the tires for cracks every year. Check tire pressure monthly. Have
any tire that seems to be loosing pressure repaired.
Ed
Ed & Wendy Hauser 2994 Mittower
Road Victor, MT 59875
