Your Guide to Inspecting a Used Trailer

Buying used equipment is a fantastic way to stretch your dollar and get the tools you need for your work. We often recommend that our customers purchase a pre-owned trailer to help ease their transportation tasks and save money. However, you will want to be vigilant when buying a second-hand model because shady private sellers can try to sell you their rig at a higher price than it is worth. We suggest that you thoroughly inspect any used trailers you are considering purchasing before making any payments.

Connecticut Trailers is your local trailer dealer, and our experts have gathered a few tips to examine a pre-owned trailer. Read on to learn more, and for more information, swing by our dealership in Bolton, CT. We are happy to welcome our patrons from Hartford County, CT, and Springfield, MA, so reach out today.

Check the Tires

Start inspecting the used trailer by reviewing the condition of the tires. They hold up the weight of your rig and its cargo and maintain traction on the road. You will want them to be in perfect shape and free of any cracks in the sidewalls or balding treads. You will also want to see that all the tires belong to a matching set—unmatched tires can wear unevenly and affect your experience during transit.

Examine the Hitch

Next, you will want to check your trailer hitch to ensure the quality is up to snuff. Make sure that it latches suitably and doesn’t have any missing parts. You will also want to keep tabs on rust or corrosion on the hitch, and if you notice any, you might have to replace it.

Look Over the Suspension

Another critical aspect of inspecting a used trailer is checking its suspension. It is underneath the bed, and you will need to bend down to look at it closely.

Inspect the axles and keep an eye on any signs of rust or corrosion. You will also want to ensure that the leaf springs and hangers are sturdy and not shaky or broken. As your trailer’s suspension will need to support the entire weight of your rig and its cargo, you will want it to be mechanically sound and free of any damage.

Inspect the Overall Condition

If you are satisfied with the condition of the used trailer after a thorough inspection of the hitch, tires, and suspension, you may have found the perfect model for you. However, before finalizing your decision, you might want to walk around your rig and check it for its overall condition. You will also need to ensure that the frame is free of any dents and rust and that there aren’t any signs of damage.

Now that you are more familiar with the used trailer inspection process, you are ready to go shopping for pre-owned trailers for sale. If you have more concerns, let our friendly experts address them. Connecticut Trailers is in Bolton, CT, and we proudly serve Hartford County, CT, and Springfield, MA.