Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer, and consequently, to boating season. For many boaters, it’s the first chance of the year to hit the water, enjoy the sunshine, and make lasting memories. But before you hitch up the boat and head for the launch ramp, there’s one critical part of the equation that often gets overlooked: your trailer.
Your boat trailer is the unsung hero of every successful outing. Without it, your boat isn’t going anywhere. And after sitting idle all winter, it’s likely in need of some attention. To help you avoid frustrating delays—or worse, being stranded roadside—use our guide to the most essential trailer maintenance checks. With these steps, you’ll be ready to roll safely and snag that perfect slip before the holiday rush!
Repack the Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings are one of the most critical—and most commonly neglected—components of your trailer. They keep your wheels spinning freely and safely, even at highway speeds. But after months of sitting still (often exposed to moisture), the grease inside the bearings can break down or dry out, leading to friction, overheating, and eventual failure.
Repacking your bearings involves removing the old grease, inspecting the bearings for wear, and packing them with fresh marine-grade lubricant. It’s a dirty but necessary job. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, Levan Machine and Truck Equipment’s service technicians can handle it quickly and properly—giving you peace of mind that your wheels are ready for the road.
Flush and Check the Brakes
If your trailer is equipped with surge or electric brakes, don’t skip this step. Brakes are your first line of defense when hauling a heavy load, especially on hilly or stop-and-go routes.
Brake systems, particularly those exposed to saltwater, are vulnerable to corrosion and fluid degradation. That’s why a complete brake fluid flush and inspection is vital each spring. It removes any moisture buildup and helps prevent internal rust, spongy pedal feel, or brake failure.
Levan Machine and Truck Equipment’s technicians can also check for worn pads, seized calipers, or faulty actuators—problems that might not be obvious until you’re already on the road.
Inspect the Coupler and Safety Chains
The coupler is the critical connection point between your trailer and tow vehicle, and it takes a lot of abuse over time. A worn, rusty, or improperly secured coupler can lead to a dangerous separation while towing. That’s not the kind of Memorial Day memory anyone wants.
Before your trip, check that the coupler latches securely, the locking mechanism is working properly, and there’s no excessive play. Make sure your safety chains are intact, not corroded, and cross correctly under the hitch—this helps keep your trailer aligned if the coupler fails.
Don’t forget the breakaway cable either. It should be firmly attached to your vehicle, not the chain or coupler.
Upgrade to LED Trailer Lights
Trailer lights aren’t just about legality—they’re about safety. Faulty or dim brake and signal lights are a common reason for getting pulled over, and worse, can lead to an accident if another driver doesn’t see you stopping or turning.
Traditional incandescent bulbs can corrode, burn out, or short-circuit, especially in a marine environment. If you’re still running the old bulbs, now’s the time to upgrade to LED trailer lights. They’re brighter, longer-lasting, and far more resistant to water and vibration. It’s one of the simplest upgrades you can make with a big payoff in visibility and peace of mind. Levan Machine and Truck Equipment offers LED lighting kits and professional installation to ensure your trailer is fully road-ready and compliant with safety standards.
Plan Ahead, Tow Confidently
By tackling these essential checks—bearing repack, brake flush, coupler and safety chain inspection, and a lighting upgrade—you’ll be well on your way to a safe, stress-free Memorial Day weekend. After all, the last place you want to spend the holiday is waiting for roadside assistance or scrambling to find replacement parts.
Levan Machine and Truck Equipment’s spring trailer services can help boaters hit the road confidently. Our experienced team will thoroughly inspect and service your trailer so you can focus on what really matters: getting out on the water.
At Levan Machine and Truck Equipment, we can also service your tow vehicle and ensure that it is ready for the road too. We’ll make sure everything is secure, functional, and up to date so you and your family can arrive safely and early enough to snag the best spot at the marina.
Trailer problems often don’t show up until you’re miles from home, under pressure, with a boat full of gear and passengers. A little preventive maintenance now can save you hours of frustration later. This Memorial Day, give yourself the gift of a smooth launch and a worry-free weekend. Schedule your trailer checkup with Levan Machine and Truck Equipment today and start the season off right—with confidence, safety, and a boat that’s ready to float.