How to Inspect Your Horse Trailer

If you don’t maintain your horse trailer, the accumulated wear and tear can be dangerous for both you and your horse. That is why M2 Outdoor has created this guide to inspecting your horse trailer. By following these steps, you can catch potential problems before they get worse, saving you both time and money.

The Floors

While all trailer floors experience rot and wear, regular exposure to manure and urine makes the floor of a horse trailer even more susceptible to damage. You can inspect wood flooring on a trailer by pushing a knife or flathead screwdriver into it. If the floor feels soft or gives way too easily, it is time for a replacement. Pay special attention to the edges because this is where liquid tends to pool, meaning that the first signs of damage will appear there. Similarly, you can check the status of a metal trailer floor by testing the sides. If the floor gives easily when you push down, it is time for a replacement.

The Tires

Regularly inspect your trailer’s tires to make sure that they are at the manufacturer’s recommended inflation level and that the tread is free of wear. If you see cracks on the tread and sidewall, it means that the rubber has been compromised by dry rot. Uneven tread wear can either be the result of unbalanced tire pressure or a misaligned axle. If fixing the tire pressure does not resolve the problem, we recommend getting the axle looked at by a mechanic.

The Ramp

While not all horse trailers come with a ramp, it is a fairly common feature. The ramp should move smoothly and easily, so if you feel resistance or the ramp jars as you open or close it, look for signs of corrosion. You can test the integrity of the ramp itself by (carefully) giving it a hit with a hammer. If the metal chips or dents, replace your ramp.

Electrical

Keeping the electrical components of your horse trailer in good working order is important if you want to stay safe and comply with the law. When testing the brake lights and turn signals, enlist the help of another person to visually confirm that your lights are still working. Though more advanced electrical work is best left to the professionals, basic repairs like replacing burnt-out bulbs should not be a challenge.

We here at M2 Outdoors want to help you keep your horse trailer in the best possible condition. To schedule a service appointment for your horse trailer or any other trailer, visit us online or at our dealerships in Dexter and Kennett, Missouri. We also offer parts ordering, financing, and test drives among other services, as well as a selection of new and pre-owned trailer models. We are proud to serve communities like Bloomfield and Essex, Missouri, as well as the Missouri Bootheel region.