Before towing your trailer, we highly recommend performing a pre-trip inspection. These steps help to make sure that you are catching any dangerous problems or issues before heading out on the road.
Before performing trailer inspections, service or maintenance:
- Park trailer on firm, level surface.
- Set brakes, turn truck engine off and remove ignition key.
- Chock tires if brakes are to be released.
- Support trailer with properly rated and placed stands.
Inspections and checks to perform before towing trailer:
- Check all lights for operation.
- Check that ABS light on street side rear corner of the trailer is not illuminated.
- Check that all safety decals are in place and in good, readable condition.
- Check that all reflectors are in place and in good condition.
- Check air pressure on all tires. Air pressure is listed on the Certification/VIN tag.
- Check and inspect all tires. If a tire has a bald spot, bulge, cut or cords showing, replace the tire(s) before towing trailer.
- Check wheel lug torque.
- Check the wheel hubs for signs of lubricant leakage.
- Check for broken or missing leaf springs or verify that air suspension springs are inflated.
- Check electrical harness and air hoses from truck for damage.
- Listen for air leaks in hoses and air suspension.
- Check brakes for wear and adjustment, and verify the brakes function properly.
- Check the oil level in wheel hubs visually through sight glass on cap. Add gear oil if needed.
- Check the oil level in hydraulic oil reservoir. Add hydraulic oil if needed.
Repair or replace any worn, damaged, leaking, broken or non-functioning items before towing the trailer.
For a printable version of the Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist to keep in your truck, click below.