February 2010 Articles

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Pre Trip Check List for Horse Trailers

Pre Trip Check List for Horse Trailers
❑ Wheel bearings. Have wheel bearings serviced
annually or ever y 12,000 miles — regardless of
mileage — due to possible moisture build-up.
Carry a spare wheel-bearing set in case of
premature failure.
❑ Tires. Look for dry rot, uneven tire wear, and
overall tire wear and damage. Replace tires every
three to five years, regardless of mileage.
❑ Tire pressure. Check tire pressure on all tires,
including spares and inside tires on dual wheels.
❑ Hitch. Ensure the hitch is locked on the ball and
that the correct size ball is being used. (Never
depend on others to hitch your trailer.)
❑ Safety cables/chains. Check that the safety
cables/chains are securely connected.
❑ Electrical connection. Make sure the electrical
connection is plugged in and secured.
❑ Breakaway system. Make sure the breakaway
system is connected and secured.
❑ Emergency battery. Make sure the emergency
battery is charged.
❑ Trailer lighting. Check lights for the brakes and
turn signals, as well as running and perimeter
lights.
❑ Brake controller. Test the brake controller to
ensure that it’s working properly.
❑ Doors. Secure and latch all trailer doors. Apply
a snap hook or carabiner to prevent accidental
opening.
❑ First-aid kits. Check the contents of equine and
human first-aid kits. Replace any depleted and
out-of-date items.
❑ Contact information. Store emergency
contact information in your tow vehicle.
❑ Hazards. Before loading horses, check the trailer for any hazards.
❑ Horses. Apply shipping boots and head bumpers on horses.
❑ On the road. Drive with headlights on, for
greater visibility. Drive safely, allow greater
braking distance, and travel at generally slower
speeds. Source: US R