What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen too many blokes with shiny boats sitting on trailers that look like they've been pulled from the Titanic. After 15 years in the trade, I reckon trailer maintenance is the most neglected job in the garage. This checklist covers the basics to stop the salt from winning and keep your paint and galvanised steel from bubbling away under that harsh March sun.
The Essentials Kit
What You'll Need
Pre-Start Inspection
What You'll Need
While you're here...
The Maintenance Routine
The Deep Rinse
Blast every inch with fresh water. Focus on the inside of the frame and the brake backing plates where salt hides and festers.
Salt Neutralisation
Apply your salt wash through a foam cannon or bucket. Let it dwell for 5 minutes (don't let it dry!) to kill those salt crystals.
The Scrub Down
Use your mitt on the visible frame and a brush on the wheels. Get the red dust and road grime off so the metal can breathe.
Dry and Inspect
Dry the main rails with an old towel. If you see bare metal or chips, hit them with the cold galv spray immediately.
Inhibit and Protect
Spray lanolin inside the frame and over the nuts and bolts. It smells like a wet sheep, but it's the best barrier against salt spray.
Tyre Care
Apply a heavy-duty UV protectant to the tyres. Trailer tyres usually rot from the sun long before the tread actually wears out.
Final Inspection
What You'll Need
A Quick Real-World Tip
Watch Out
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