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Read moreCaravan and Trailer Safety Checklist Before You Tow
Heading away with a caravan, camper trailer, horse float or box trailer? A quick pre-trip safety check can help prevent breakdowns, expensive repairs and stressful delays on the road. At SDJ Mechanical in Wandoan, we provide caravan and trailer servicing and inspections to help locals travel with greater confidence.
Whether you are towing for work, heading away for a holiday, moving livestock or planning a weekend away, your trailer needs just as much attention as the vehicle doing the towing.
Check your tyres and spare
Trailer and caravan tyres can deteriorate even when the vehicle is not used often. Before setting off, check for low tread, cracking in the sidewalls, uneven wear, punctures and the correct tyre pressures. Don’t forget to inspect the spare tyre too—there is little use having one if it is flat, damaged or unsuitable for the load.
Inspect brakes, bearings and suspension
Working trailer brakes are particularly important for caravans, larger trailers and horse floats. Brake components, wheel bearings and suspension can wear over time, especially after travelling on gravel roads, carrying heavy loads or sitting unused for long periods.
Warning signs that your trailer may need attention include unusual noises, pulling to one side, vibration, excessive movement, poor braking performance or wheels that feel hot after towing. A professional inspection can identify worn bearings, brake issues and suspension faults before they become a roadside problem.
Test lights, wiring and electrical connections
Your brake lights, indicators, tail lights and number plate light need to work correctly for safe towing. Check the trailer plug and wiring for corrosion, damage or loose connections, particularly if your trailer has been exposed to dust, mud or water.
For caravans, it is also a good idea to check the battery, charging system and any auxiliary electrical components before a longer trip.
Check the coupling and safety chains
The coupling should be secure, properly lubricated and suited to the tow ball. Safety chains must be correctly attached and in good condition, while the jockey wheel should operate smoothly and be securely stowed before travel.
Also make sure your load is safely secured and evenly distributed. An overloaded or poorly loaded trailer can affect steering, braking and stability.
Don’t overlook your tow vehicle
Towing places additional strain on your vehicle’s engine, cooling system, brakes, suspension and tyres. Before a major trip, it is worth checking coolant levels, engine oil, brake condition and tyre pressures. This is especially important when travelling long distances around Wandoan and through regional Queensland, where hot conditions and long stretches of road can put extra pressure on your vehicle.
Book a caravan or trailer safety check in Wandoan
At SDJ Mechanical, we service and repair a wide range of vehicles and towing equipment, including caravans, campervans, trailers, horse floats, 4WDs, utes and light trucks. Our experienced team can inspect key safety items and help prepare your vehicle and trailer for the road ahead.
Book your caravan or trailer service with SDJ Mechanical in Wandoan before your next trip.
