subject: Horse Trailer Safety And Condition Inspection [print this page] A handful of essential points to consider about the safety and situation of your horse trailer. Ahead of loading and hauling your horse in any horse trailer you ought to execute a safety and condition inspection. The condition of the trailer will impact your safety, and the safety of your horses.
The condition of the floor. The fact that the floor is wood and wood is prone to rot makes it an critical safety concern. There isn't anything a lot more tragic than getting a horse fall by way of the floor of a horse trailer. I do not even want to think about it since it is so upsetting. The wood planking utilised to make the floor need to have NO rotten or soft spots. Underneath, the wood planks are attached to the cross frames. These can have some surface rust but significant rust is a hazard. Rust is the result of oxidation and oxidation not only removes the steel in the form of rust, but also softens it and removes its strength. In the case of an acceptable degree of surface rust the flat surface of the metal is nonetheless flat with no pitting. When the surface starts to pit then the strength is lowered. When in doubt contact in an expert to give you a qualified opinion. The cross frames are generally attached to the main trailer frame by welding. Inspect the welds, appear for cracks along the edge of every weld and also along the center of the weld. When in doubt contact in an professional to give you an informed second opinion.
The door latches are often overlooked. Every trailer door must effortlessly lock and unlock. The door latches need to keep the doors safely locked so the doors can not open accidentally but they must also be straightforward to open when the time comes.
The trailer brakes are an typically neglected safety item. The trailer must pull easily with no brake binding and really should supply stopping assistance when braking. There are two primary categories of trailer brake systems, electric brakes and hydraulic surge brakes. I choose the hydraulic surge brakes but either method will work as long as it is maintained effectively. The trailer brake method ought to be inspected by a mechanic or a person knowledgeable about trailer brakes. When pulling a trailer loaded with horses usually drive cautiously and give plenty of additional distance for safe stopping.
Prior to each use of the trailer check to make certain the brake lights, turn signals, and tail lights are working. Other drivers need to see the trailer so make it easy for them. The lights give others an indication of what your turning and stopping plans are. Most drivers on the road are not paying attention and they do not contemplate that you are pulling a heavy load. Take the time to inspect your trailer before each use. A little prevention is worth a lot and just might avert an accident.
