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TRAILER MAINTENANCE
Tires and wheels are a very important and critical
components of the trailer. When specifying or replacing the
trailer wheels it is important the wheels, tires, and axle are
properly matched.
Tire inflation pressure is the most important factor in tire
life. Pressure should be checked cold before operation DO
NOT bleed air from tires when they are hot!. Check inflation
pressure weekly during use to insure the maximum tire life
and tread wear.
Table 16 (Tire Wear Troubleshooting) will help pinpoint the
causes and solutions of tire wear problems.
wear safety glasses when
removing or installing force fitted parts.
Failure to comply may result in serious
injury.
DO NOT attempt to repair or modify a
wheel. DO NOT install in inner tube to
correct a leak through the rim. If the rim is
cracked, the air pressure in the inner tube
may cause pieces of the rim to explode (break off) with
great force and cause serious eye or bodily injury.
Table 16. Tire Wear Troubleshooting
Wear Pattern Cause Solution
Center Wear Over inflation.
Adjust pressure to particular
load per tire manufacturer.
Edge Wear Under inflation.
Adjust pressure to particular
load per tire manufacturer.
Side Wear
Loss of camber
or overloading.
Make sure load does not
exceed axle rating.
Align wheels.
Toe Wear Incorrect toe-in. Align wheels.
Cupping Out-of-balance.
Check bearing adjustment
and balance tires.
Flat Spots
Wheel lockup and
tire skidding.
Avoid sudden stops when
possible and adjust brakes.
Suspension
The leaf suspension springs and associated components
(Figure 61) should be visually inspected every 6,000 miles
for signs of excessive wear, elongation of bolt holes, and
loosening of fasteners. Replace all damaged parts
(suspension) immediately. Torqued suspension components
as detailed in Table 17.
Figure 61. Major Suspension Components
Suspension Torque Requirements
3/8" U-Bolt Min-30 Max-35
7/16" U-Bolt Min-45 Max-60
1/2" U-Bolt Min-45 Max-60
Shackle Bolt
Spring Eye Bolt
Snug fit only. Parts must rotate freely.
Locking nuts or cotter pins are
provided to retain nut-bolt assembly.
Shoulder Type
Shackle Bolt
Min-30 Max-50