Ski Boat Forum

Repairs and Maintenance => Boat Maintenance - American Skier => Topic started by: RonT on June 12, 2011, 08:39:54 AM

Title: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: RonT on June 12, 2011, 08:39:54 AM

OK guys, for those who will be trailering in please take a few minutes this week to insure that you arrive, I was reminded of this yesterday when I picked up an '88 Advance that had "recent bearing service & new tires". Expect hot roads next week (ambient reached 101 yesterday on I-10)

Tires: Date code 5 year max,  pressures correct, spare, proper clearance to fender top & inner fender board
(This guy had new tires but shredded one on his way to meet me because it was rubbing the inner fender board)

Bearings: Just pumping grease into the cap a couple times a year is a recipe for a bad day along the highway. Disassemble the hubs at the beginning of each year & inspect the bearings, repair as needed, then supplement with grease during the season.
(This guy believed in a "squirt a year keeps the wheels rollin" maintenance program, We did a roadside bearing replacement when smoke began whisping out from the wheel which began to wobble as I pulled over, 60 min delay)

Lights: check & repair

Tie-downs: I recommend using them

Covers: I prefer to trailer without, but be sure everything is secure, there's a strong vacuum behind the windshield, every tow vehicle casts a different "air wake", when it comes to fuel mileage some benefit from having the cover on, some off.

Drain plug should be removed, rain water gets really heavy, let it out

Visually inspect springs & hangers
See you there!

Title: Re: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: Roger on June 15, 2011, 08:09:58 PM

Yea, even new bearings have problems...right Ron?

Title: Re: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: RonT on June 16, 2011, 02:06:15 PM

Now everyone is going to think I messed up your bearings... I don't use Vaseline to pack bearings like this kid did this past weekend! ::)

Title: Re: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: Roger on June 17, 2011, 09:51:05 AM

To be perfectly clear!...Ron did not mess up my bearings. He found a faulty install on a new axle! Corrected the problem. Towed 8 hours back home. Its been a LOOOONNNNNGGGG time since I used vasiline for anything,,,

Title: Re: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: chrisheile on July 14, 2011, 10:40:45 AM

How much do these trailers weigh?  Single axle.

Title: Re: Reunion Trailer prep
Post by: RonT on July 14, 2011, 02:11:00 PM

An 2001 TBX single axle w/ brakes is around 950# (torsion axle w/ drum brakes)