Regular trailer maintenance is critical for the smooth functioning and long life of your trailer. The key to keep it safe is to conduct a routine inspection in essential areas and fixing them before it causes more significant problems. As a driver, you are the one most likely to be affected by mechanical failures. If a severe deficiency is noted during the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) inspection, the vehicle may be placed out-of-service at the inspection site.
Take a look at this post to know why the annual trailer inspections are so necessary:
# 1 It’s the law
An annual safety inspection of trailers with a gross weight of over 4,500 pounds is a must. Legally, every commercial motor vehicle must be inspected every 12 months by a qualified inspector. The term "commercial motor vehicle" includes eighteen-wheelers, dump trucks, box trucks, freight liners, bucket trucks, and a vast array of other large vehicles. The FMSCA runs a Compliance, Safety, Accountability (CSA) program designed to hold motorists, including owner-operators, accountable for their role in road safety. To avoid a low CSA score, drivers should conduct a thorough vehicle inspection report.
#2 It keeps you on the road
If you are transporting construction materials or hauling heavy machinery, you wouldn’t want to get stuck on the highway because of a mechanical failure. A trailer's brakes are the most critical components of the vehicle. In case of a brake failure, the driver of the truck can easily crash into other cars. Proper maintenance and inspection are critical to ensuring effective brakes. Brake problems are one of the primary reasons trailers are placed out of service during Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance's (CVSA) annual inspection. All brake components should be inspected for excessive wear and proper operation of the slack adjusters.
#3 It keeps you safe
A driver can inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicle by doing preventive maintenance before a problem surfaces. It is essential to conduct pre-service inspections on trailers that have been inactive for a significant amount of time. Drivers can use the following tips to prepare for inspections:
- Clean the equipment (inside and out)
- Implement a regular preventive maintenance program to keep vehicles in good condition
- Perform pre-trip, en route, and post-trip inspections to check for problems
- Understand inspection procedures
#4 It reduces liability
You must perform a driver-vehicle inspection report (DVIR) daily. The driver or company must certify that the inspection has occurred and that all parts are safe and n good working order. A lawyer may likely find you liable for an accident if the issue with your trailer could have been prevented by proper pre-trip inspection. Companies failing to comply with such routine inspections may be fined or even lose licenses or certifications.
#5 It saves you money
Figuring out a problem before a breakdown happens can save you both time and money. Trailers, like any other tools, can easily succumb to wear and tear with time. Fixing any issues before they turn into more significant problems can prevent a trailer from malfunctioning. By going for an inspection, you can quickly rectify the efficiency issues (for instance, due to clogged air or fuel filter), which might be making the trailer work extra hard. Problems with ignition sparks can also negatively impact fuel consumption.
About Silver Moon Trailers
No matter your need, Silver Moon Trailers should be your one-stop destination for all your trailer requirements. We have trailers for all kinds of businesses, budgets, and cargo. And if you don’t find a trailer that meets your demands, we can construct a custom trailer to match your specifications.
Silver Moon Trailer is known for offering the best services like trailer repair in Arkansas, USA. You can call us at 870.330.9133 or email us at silvermoontrailers@gmail.com to know more.