If your trailer must be stored for a period of 90 days or more, it’s important to adequately prepare it in advance :
Lift the trailer and place supports under the frame to ease the weight off the tires. Follow manufacturer’s recommendations for lifting and supporting the unit. Never place the jack or the supports under the axle tube or the stabilizers ;
WARNING
Do not lift or support the trailer on any part of the axle or suspension system. Never go under a trailer unless held up by supports of an adequate capacity. A vehicle that is incorrectly supported can fall without warning and cause serious injury or death.
Lubricate moveable mechanical parts, such as the hitch and the parts of the suspension that are exposed to the elements ;
The axles of boat trailers are subject to frequent immersions under water. Before storing them, remove the rake drums and clean them ; dry and lubricate the brakes’ moveable parts a second time ; inspect, clean and lubricate the bearings a second time ;
Given the possibility that the upper part of the ball bearings isn't covered in oil, it's more subject to corrosion. It's strongly recommended to turn the wheels periodically (every 2 weeks) when in storage for a prolonged period of time ;
Remove the battery from the hydraulic unit.
Inspection Procedures After Extended Storage
Before removing the supports :
Remove all the wheels, as well as the wheel drums and hubs. Be sure to note which spindles and which brakes come from the drums so that they can be reinstalled at the same place ;
Check for wear on the suspension parts ;
Make sure that the bolts of the spring hanger and the nuts of the U-bolts are tightened to the torque recommended by the manufacturer. Refer to the procedure provided ;
Inspect the brake lining, the sides of the brakes and the drum walls to ensure that there hasn't been excessive wear and that the parts aren't scratched ;
Check the electromagnetic coils with an ohmmeter. A normal reading is 3.2 ohms. If the reading is lower, the spires are short-circuited, or if the mechanics are too used, the electromagnets must be replaced ;
Lubricate every brake moveable parts with a high-temperature brake lubricant (GADUS 220 (#XHP222) or comparable product) ;
Using an Emery or crocus cloth, remove all rust from the surfaces of the brake system and the outside of the drums. Protect the ball bearings from contamination during this step ;
Inspect the seals (grease or oil-proof) for any wear or cracking. Replace them as needed ;
Axles must be installed and maintained in accordance with the appropriate
industry practices and the explicit recommendations of Frameco, including those outlined in the User’s guide. Otherwise, the warranty offered by Frameco can't apply.
