Searching for the perfect Panga boat for sale is an exciting time. You've probably been researching different brands, sizes, etc. And hopefully been doing your research on the best ways to maintain your new Panga boat.
However, oftentimes we find boat owners overlook the maintenance of their boat's trailer. It just seems like one of those things that are just an extra hassle. Plus, you don't have much to lose if the panga boat's trailer is in bad shape, right? Wrong!
Depending on where your panga boat's trailer is stored or parked, it could suffer from different types of wear and tear that could harm you or your Panga boat when transporting. Don't fret, Panga Sports is here to help you.
5 Must-do Tips For Boat Trailer Maintenance
Tip #1: Check The Tires Frequently
a. Tire Pressure
Check your trailer tires frequently (at minimum the day before and day of taking the trailer out.) You want to make sure that your tire pressure is not too low or too high. Incorrect tire pressure on a trailer can cause blowouts and control issues. You do not want to experience this while driving down the highway.
b. Dry Rot
If your trailer spends a lot of time in direct sunlight, you need to check your tires for dry rot. What is dry rot? Tires naturally wear down over time, since they are composed of rubber. When a tire ages, the protective resin that keeps the rubber from oxidizing and drying out deteriorates. As those oils evaporate, the tire becomes brittle, cracking and falling apart. Heavy sunlight and heat speed this process up.
The easiest methods to prevent dry rot are to keep your boat trailer indoors, such as a garage or carport, or use tire covers.
c. Bring a Spare
As we practice preventative maintenance. It still helps to be prepared for a worst-case scenario. Nothing will put a damper on a fishing trip like a flat trailer tire and no spare. Make sure you've always got a spare, and that it too has no dry rot and the correct tire pressure. A spare tire can literally save the day and a lot of money, time, and frustration.
Tip #2 Protect Your Wheel Bearings
Another typical cause of trailer failure is damaged wheel bearings. If the bearings see a lot of water, they may become rusted, which is why most boat trailers include wheel bearing protectors. Wheel bearing protectors contain a pressure spring-loaded piston that holds grease in the wheel hub, preventing water from getting into the hub and bearing assembly.
If your boat trailer does not have wheel bearing protectors it is recommended that you add them. However, even with wheel bearing protectors you should still inspect your bearings seasonally, and repack with fresh grease at least every couple of years.
Tip #3 Trailer Brakes Inspection & Maintenance
Not all boat trailers have brakes, however, if yours does then you need to make sure they are in working order.
Here are the main 3 maintenance items for your trailer brakes.
a. Keep Your Trailer Brakes Clean
Clogged, dirty, and corroded trailer brakes are the most common cause of brake failure in boat trailers. Especially for boaters who are launching into saltwater. You must rinse your trailer brakes off immediately after returning home from a boating trip. Also, be sure to rinse off the wheels and tires to help prevent your lug nuts from rusting. If you are using a marina, many of them will have a fresh water hose and/or station for this.
b. Inspecting Brake Pads or Shoes
Disc-type (with brake pads) and drum-type (with shoes) trailer brakes are both available, with wear similar to that of your tow vehicle's brake pads.
Every few seasons, have the shoes or pads inspected.
It makes sense to time this along with your wheel bearing service (see Tip #2).
This is also a good time to check for any rust in the brake lines.
c. Brake Fluid
Check the brake fluid levels a couple of times a season. (refer to your owner's manual for instructions). As your pads wear, fluid levels will naturally go down. However, If the fluid appears to be very low, or if it's discolored or dirty, there may be a leak. Have a brake shop check for any leaks in the brake system and top up the level.
Tip #4 Trailer Lights Inspection & Maintenance
Every time you take your boat trailer out you need to check all of the trailer lights, making sure they are all working properly.
Here are a few common causes for trailer light issues, and how you can avoid and/or fix them:
a. Grounding
Bad grounding is the most common cause of trailer light failures. The ground should be a white wire that's secured directly to the trailer frame with a bolt or screw. This must be a clean, direct contact. If
you're experiencing issues check this, and clean it if need be.
b. Connection to Tow Vehicle
A clean uninterrupted connection between your trailer and the vehicle's electrical systems is crucial in ensuring your trailer lights work properly. Be sure to keep the connector part of your trailer lights harness clear of debris and corrosion. It's a good idea to keep it covered when not in use. The same goes for the connector on your vehicle (the part where you plug the trailer into your vehicle.) Keep this clean and covered when not in use.
Tip #5 Clean Your Trailer
A clean boat trailer will both look better and last longer. This may be an obvious statement, but it's often looked over by many boat owners. Always wash and wax your boat and trailer once the season is over to help prevent corrosion of metal parts and pitting of pontoons.
Panga Boats For Sale With Trailer
Getting a new Panga boat is one of the most exciting purchases you'll ever make. At Panga Sports we want to make sure you have the resources available to ensure that your Panga boat and its trailer are well taken care of and ready to provide you with a lifetime of adventure.
If you're looking for a Panga boat, contact us today, we have panga boats for sale that come with everything you need to get on the water fast! Including the boat, trailer, engine, and just the right amount of options. Contact us today by visiting us online at www.pangasports.com, or give us a call at (615) 268-1592.