Maintenance Tips For Dump Trailers

Dump trailers are an incredibly useful tool, allowing you to work smarter, not harder. It saves you time, energy, and, in turn, money—so return the favor by keeping it in good condition. We here at Allan Dale Trailers & RVs want to help you keep your equipment for as long as possible, so we’ve put together a few of our favorite dump trailer maintenance tips. To learn more, or to see the dump trailers we have for sale, contact our stores in Red Deer and Edmonton, Alberta, today!

Owner’s Manual

Like with all vehicles, your owner’s manual is the first step to keeping your dump trailer in good shape. Though we have some general advice, your manual is geared towards your rig specifically. It might have a recommended maintenance schedule or preferred products and more. If you can’t find yours, the manufacturer’s website should have a version you can download or print.

Battery

Dump trailers are unique for a few reasons, including having their own battery. Unfortunately, that means you need to do all the typical vehicle battery maintenance with it, as well as your tow vehicle. That includes checking and charging it when you can. If you need to put the trailer away for more than a few days, take the battery out and put it on a trickle charger. 

Remember that a dump trailer’s battery tends to be near the hydraulics system, so if your battery isn’t fully charged, it may leak. That can impact all aspects of your dump trailer’s functions. If the bed isn’t lifting correctly, check that area for excess fluid.

Tires

Like any other vehicle, your dump trailer’s tires need some dedicated care. Make sure the tire pressure matches the recommendations in your owner’s manual. If the tires need to be pumped up frequently, you may have a leak. 

You should also check the sidewalls for signs of damage and ensure your tread isn’t too low. Avoid using equipment with damaged or degraded tires, both because it’s inefficient and because it’s unsafe.

Hydraulic System

And of course, your dump trailer’s starring player is the hydraulic system. Again, if your system is leaking, check to make sure the battery is fully charged. 

Sometimes, your bed might get stuck in the lifted position. A temporary fix is to find a square-shaped coil and a round one on the pump. Try to loosen the nuts of both coils and switch them out, which may allow you to lower the bed enough to move the trailer. Again, this is a temporary fix and will require professional assistance as soon as possible. 

We hope this guide helps you keep things rolling! For professional maintenance help you can trust, or to see the dump trailers we have in stock, contact us at Allan Dale Trailers & RVs. We proudly serve the people of Alberta—let us serve you today!