Lifestyle

How to Maintain Your Boat Trailer

Published

4 years ago

August 15, 2020

Owning a boat trailer requires great responsibility and maintenance. Avid fishermen understand that proper care, before and after a trip, is essential in avoiding any long standing issues.

Here are 5 simple steps to maintain your boat trailer, without the help of a professional.

Keep it Clean

When it comes to maintenance, the most basic task is to keep things clean where appropriate. Dirt on a boat trailer can lead to serious damage. Having a dirty bilge may stop you from spotting fuel leaks and lead to clogged pumps. Dirt accumulation on the canvas and upholstery of the trailer allows the growth of molds. These are just a few examples of prevention by cleaning. A simple wash and wax will do the trick.

On steel trailers, there is the tendency for rust to appear in areas that are not easily accessible. Regularly inspecting your trailer helps flag such problems before they arise. Paying close attention to the insides of the trailer, the area around the brakes, callipers, bolts, joints, and welds, will timeously help to contain rust issues. With the use of a jack, you can easily inspect underneath the trailer. A little spray and regular clean, will keep the rust at bay.

Keep your Bearings Happy

Maintaining trailer wheel bearings can add years to the life of your trailer boat. For efficiency, your bearings should be changed at least once a year. You can check for wear and tear by removing the bearings and thoroughly inspecting them.

If your bearings show signs of being defective, it’s best to replace them. Otherwise, clean them until they are free of dirt and moisture, re-pack with grease and re-seal. When everything has been re-assembled, turn the wheels and check for any unusual movement or noise. A wheel with healthy bearings should turn without any sound. Should you experience any rocking or wobbling, it is best to give them a tighten.

While you’re at it, give the shaft(s) of the axle a fair amount of grease.

With all the weight carried by the axle resting on the bearings, you can imagine how difficult it would be to turn the wheel if the bearings aren’t smooth and slippery. Both grease and oil serve the same function inside the hub by minimising friction and transferring heat away from it.

Check Your Tyres

Tyre problems are common causes of trailer breakdowns. Develop the habit of always checking your tyres before use.

Telltale signs include rusty or damaged tread and deformed side walls or bulging. Look out for tyre abnormalities especially if the trailer hasn’t been used in a while.

Check the air pressure and inflate as suggested by a trailer professional. Make sure the tyre rims are in good condition as the risk of a blowout is increased, if a rim is damaged.

Inspect Trailer Parts Regularly

So as not to overlook anything, make sure you check all the parts of your boat trailer.

Carefully check the following:

Truck Receiver
Plugins
Truck Ball

You should also inspect your led lights to ensure there are no water leakages. This is a bad sign and should be taken care of as soon as possible. To avoid any wiring issues, use wire wrap on your wires, this will shield them from the elements. Check your connectors to make sure they don’t tear and should you feel they need a clean, simply use a cotton swab.

For every trip, check your trailer. They are constantly exposed to harsh conditions and elements such as salt water when launching your boat. Professional trailer boat dealers will provide you with a daily maintenance schedule to follow. This is usually in line with the manufacturer’s requirements.

All these things are critical and should be taken seriously when properly maintaining your boat trailer. In doing so, you will avoid any unforeseen problems along the way.

Lifestyle

How to Properly Clean and Condition Leather Boots

Published

2 days ago

December 12, 2024

Michelle Langton

Leather boots are a wardrobe staple that combine style, durability, and functionality. Whether you’re wearing them for work, casual outings, or outdoor adventures, regular care is essential to ensure they stay looking their best and last for years. Properly cleaning and conditioning your leather boots not only enhances their appearance but also helps maintain their structural integrity. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keeping your leather boots in top shape.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:

A soft brush or cloth
Leather cleaner or mild soap
A clean, damp cloth
Leather conditioner
A dry, lint-free cloth
Optional: Waterproofing spray for added protection

Step 2: Remove Dirt and Debris

Start by removing any loose dirt and debris with a soft brush or cloth. Pay attention to the seams and crevices where dirt can accumulate – this step is crucial, as it prevents dirt from being rubbed into the leather during cleaning, which could cause scratches.

Step 3: Clean the Leather

Apply a small amount of leather cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water to a clean, damp cloth. Gently rub the cloth over the surface of the boots, working in circular motions. Avoid soaking the leather, as excessive moisture can cause damage. Once cleaned, wipe off any excess cleaner with another damp cloth and allow the boots to air dry naturally, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Step 4: Condition the Leather

Leather, like skin, needs hydration to prevent it from drying out and cracking. Apply a high-quality leather conditioner to a dry, lint-free cloth and rub it into the leather using small, circular motions. Focus on the areas that experience the most wear, such as the toe box and heel. Allow the conditioner to absorb fully before buffing the boots gently with a clean cloth to restore their shine.

Step 5: Protect and Maintain

For added protection, consider applying a waterproofing spray designed for leather. This step is particularly useful if you often wear your boots in wet or muddy conditions. Regularly repeating these steps will help your boots remain in excellent condition.

Bonus Tips for Longevity

Always store your boots in a cool, dry place. Use boot trees or stuff them with newspaper to maintain their shape.
Avoid exposing leather boots to extreme heat or moisture.
If your boots are a wide fit and you value comfort, consider exploring options like the most comfortable boots for wide feet to ensure proper fit and support.

Why Regular Maintenance Matters

Cleaning and conditioning your leather boots not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also prolongs their lifespan – neglecting proper care can lead to cracking, fading, and even structural damage. By incorporating these simple steps into your routine, you’ll ensure that your boots continue to provide comfort and style for years to come.

Take pride in your leather boots and enjoy the confidence that comes with well-maintained footwear. Whether you’re stepping out in the city or venturing into the great outdoors, your boots will thank you for the care and attention.