Dump Trailer Maintenance

Having the right machines can help make finishing big projects a lot easier. However, you lose your efficiency when you don’t take care of your machines, like your dump trailer. A functional dump trailer can make hauling vast quantities of material around faster and more efficient, but it can cost you big money if you’re surprised by a repair that popped up unexpectedly--one that could’ve been avoided by regular maintenance. True Value Trailers & Power Equipment knows the importance of upkeep, so we’ve provided some tips to help you out. If you need additional advice, then stop by our location, serving Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Fountain, and Canon City, Colorado, to chat with one of our experienced staff.

What to Know Before you Start

We’ll give you some of the most general tips, but it’s important to access your owner’s manual before getting started. There should be a maintenance section that gives you more information about best maintenance practices, when to service and inspect certain areas, and some of the best products for upkeep. This should be your primary resource throughout your entire maintenance check. 

Battery 

Because of the function of a dump trailer, each one comes with its own battery, so you’ll want to keep it properly maintained, just like you would for the battery in your car. You’ll want to check it regularly and charge it as needed. 

You’ll want to keep in mind that the battery is kept right next to the hydraulics system. Sometimes, a battery with a low charge will start to leak, and if it leaks over the hydraulics, then you might experience difficulty operating this part of the trailer. Which also means if you notice the hydraulics aren’t operating properly, then you should check your battery first.

Tires

As with any road vehicle, your dump trailer’s tires need to be regularly inspected and measured for pressure readings. This could either be once a month, or before every major project. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the psi levels and make sure they line up with the recommendations provided in your owner’s manual. Also inspect the tread for damage and excessive or uneven wear. Both can create tires that are too compromised to travel with and will need to be replaced.

The Hydraulic System

Now for one of the most unique systems on the dump trailer. Hydraulics themselves aren’t particularly rare, but there are few other trailers that use them. You’ll want to know how to care for them if you want to keep using the signature feature of these models. As we mentioned, one common cause of lift malfunction is a leaky battery. But this isn’t always the cause, and worst case scenario, you’ll find yourself with a dump stuck with the best hoisted high. 

If all you need to do is lower it enough to get it to a technician, try looking for a square-shaped coil and a round-shaped coil on the pump. Loosen the nuts of each coil and then switch them. This might allow you to lower the bed to at least make it safe to travel. And keep in mind, this is a temporary, emergency fix. You’ll still need to take it to a technician to get to the bottom of the issue. 

Hopefully this helps you with the most basic aspects of caring for your dump trailer, although there are certainly other areas that you should be checking regularly. Again, we invite you to consult your owner’s manual for more information, or come chat with one of our staff members at True Value Trailers & Power Equipment. We can help you with your questions and concerns, or show you some of the models we have for sale right now. We welcome all patrons from  Pueblo, Colorado Springs, Fountain, and Canon City, Colorado.