Trailer tire winter handling 1993 Hunter 23.5

[Hawk4661]

What is the best way to handle trailer tires for the winter? Leave tires on trailer,or remove them a place trailer on jack stand?
I also noticed the last time out to boat. There was low tire pressure on one tire and some cracks in the outside wall of tire.
Thank in advance.

 

[petersea]

Cracks in the side wall are a degrading of the tire and an indicator that the tire is bad, needing replaced. My suggestion is to jack the trailer up on stands or blocks so that there is no or little weight on the tires and suspension. Taking the tires off the trailer is extreme (IMO) however it certainly will discourage a thief !

 

[Rick Webb]

Do Not Block it Up on the Frame

Sounds like the tires are closer to the end than the begining.

Covering the tires to protect them from UV is a good way to extend thier life.

If you do put it up on blocks put the blocks under the axle. The frame is not built to support the load except wher the axles attach

 

[George H260]

Boat trailers are often left to rust in some out of the way place until they are needed, then the owner can't figure out why he gets a failed bearing or blown tire on the way to the lake. He then spends the rest of the weekend getting back on the road.


Cracks in the sidewalls mean your tires should be replaced. It would be a rare event if the tire tread wears out because of the few miles they normally get. What is more common is UV degrades the sidewalls and then you get a blowout at the most inconvenient moment.

- The ideal storage for trailer tires is in a cool, dark garage at maximum inflation.

- Use tire covers to protect the tires from direct sunlight.

- Use thin plywood sections between the tire and the pavement.

- For long term outside storage, put the trailer on blocks to take the weight off the tires. - Then lower the air pressure and cover the tires to protect them from direct sunlight.

Other Tips:
- Park in a protected area such as garage, carport, etc. If you cannot park in a protected area, cover your trailer with a boat cover or tarp.

- Repack wheel bearings to remove any lingering water or debris. (NOTE. If water stands on bearing surfaces for as short a time as several weeks without the wheel being turned, rust and bearing damage will begin. Before storing the trailer for prolonged periods, bearings should be re-packed.

3. Lubricate moving parts such as rollers, winches and other rolling parts with lightweight household oil.

4. Tighten loose nuts and bolts.

5. Block the tongue and crank the tongue jack to the completely closed position.

More tips regarding tire and trailer maintenance at these links:

http://h260.com/trailer/trailer1/trailer_maintenance.html

http://www.discounttire.com/dtcs/infoTrailerTireFacts.dos