Broken welds, rusty parts and general improper trailer upkeep, can lead to traffic accidents and breakdowns

Horsebox and trailer maintenance is my business, and in my opinion every horsebox should be regularly checked for the following:

• Wheel bolts: Check wheel bolts to make sure that the torque setting is 120 nm.
• Lights: Make sure the lights are working and not faulty.
• Tyres: Make sure that tyres are pumped up to the required tyre pressure, which is normally around 2,2 bar, depending on make and weight. Tyres should be in good condition with a tread of at least 5 mm or more. Make sure that tyres don't have cracks or slow punctures. Do this by regular pressure monitoring.
• Winch: Always make sure that the winch is fully lubricated, as this is the pivot for your and your horse's safety. Make sure that all moving parts do so freely and, when locked, it must be locked in position.
• Safety chain: A chain must be around your tow bar or alternatively use a brake cable.
• Reflective tape: Should be at least a metre long on all sides of trailer.
• Warning signs: A triangle with a red T inside of it should be on the rear end of your trailer to indicate that you are towing a trailer.
• Paint work: The paint work should be in a reasonable condition with no rust.

If your trailer is used daily, it would be a good idea to service it every three months. If it is used every weekend or less, then a service every 5-6 months should be adequate, depending on its condition.

Service checklist

• Check that all lights are in good working order.
• Check the trailer plug wiring for damage and repair wiring according to SABS standards.
• Check the lights for cracks and check the globe contact inside the light to make sure that lights do not flicker.
• Check all suspension linkages and rubbers, and make sure that the leaf springs' tension is according to standards.
• Remove wheel bearings and housings. Clean and lubricate them with every service or replace them, depending on condition, to avoid loss of a wheel.
• Make sure that all doors are in good working order, with no play on hinges and no squeaks or rattles.
• Make sure that brake linings are in good condition at all times and that adjustments are correct.

For more safety tips and information, contact Tyrone on 082 828 5417 or e-mail him at hennings.tyrone@gmail.com.