Horse Trailer Maintenance

Maintaining a horse trailer keeps the horses, passengers and driver safe. The process resembles auto maintenance. Horse trailers come from the manufacturer in lengths of approximately 10- to 18-feet long. The size depends on the number of horses it hauls, and whether it has a dressing room. Horse trailers sustain damage and wear from the elements, just like cars. Regular maintenance can postpone damage, maintain value of the trailer and reduces cost of repairs.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray lubricant
  • Screwdriver
  • Pitchfork/shovel
  • Hose
  • Wax
  • Tire guage
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the tire pressure, look for tire rot, and replace old or worn tires with models recommended by the manufacturer before loading the horses. Trailer tires have different load capacities than vehicle tires.

    • 2

      Oil the hinges. Apply lubricant to the ramp to keep doors and divider hinges from rusting shut. Do this before and after show season.

    • 3

      Apply lubricant to the coupler at least twice a year; check the safety chains for cracking.

    • 4

      Remove manure and sawdust with a pitchfork or shovel after using the trailer. Wash and wax the trailer at least two to three times a year to remove dirt and mud. Dig the dirt and manure out of the grooves between the wall and floor with a screwdriver. Rust and water damage often appear around the grooves.

    • 5

      Crawl under the trailer once a year to look for rust, loose wires and holes.

    • 6

      Plug the trailer's electrical system into the truck. Step on the brake while a second person stands behind the trailer to make sure the lights work. Repeat for each blinker. Check the lights every time you tow the trailer.