How to Prepare Your Trailer and Heavy Equipment for Long-Term Storage

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Preparing your trailer and heavy equipment for long-term storage is essential to maintain their condition and longevity. Proper storage helps prevent rust, corrosion, and mechanical issues, ensuring your equipment remains ready for use when you need it. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly store your trailer and heavy equipment for the long term.

1. Clean Thoroughly Before Storage

The first step in preparing your trailer and heavy equipment for storage is to clean them thoroughly.

Exterior Cleaning: Wash the exterior of your trailer and equipment to remove dirt, mud, and grime. Pay special attention to areas where dirt accumulates, such as undercarriages and wheel wells. For heavy equipment, use a pressure washer to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Interior Cleaning: For enclosed trailers, clean the interior to remove any debris, moisture, or odors. Remove any stored items that might attract pests.
Rust Prevention: After cleaning, dry all surfaces completely to prevent rust and corrosion. Consider applying a rust inhibitor on metal surfaces prone to rust.

2. Inspect and Maintain

Before storing, conduct a thorough inspection and perform any necessary maintenance.

Check for Damage: Inspect your trailer and equipment for any signs of damage, such as cracks, dents, or rust. Address these issues before storing them to prevent further deterioration.
Lubricate Moving Parts: Lubricate all moving parts, including hinges, joints, and mechanical components, to ensure smooth operation when you return to use.
Tire Maintenance: Check tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended level. Consider using tire covers to protect against UV damage and prevent flat spots.
Battery Care: Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining during storage. Store the battery in a cool, dry place and periodically charge it to maintain its condition.

3. Protect Against the Elements

Protecting your trailer and heavy equipment from the elements is crucial for long-term storage.

Choose the Right Storage Location: Store your trailer and equipment in a dry, covered area, such as a garage, barn, or storage facility. If indoor storage is not available, use high-quality covers designed for trailers and heavy equipment to protect against rain, snow, and UV rays.
Use Moisture Absorbers: Place moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers inside enclosed trailers to prevent mold, mildew, and moisture damage.
Seal Openings: Ensure all windows, doors, and compartments are securely closed to prevent pests and moisture from entering.

4. Fuel and Fluid Management

Proper management of fuel and fluids is essential to prevent damage during storage.

Fuel Stabilization: If storing for more than a month, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank of your trailer or equipment to prevent the fuel from breaking down and causing engine issues. Run the engine for a few minutes to distribute the stabilizer throughout the system.
Drain Fluids: For longer storage periods, consider draining fluids such as oil, coolant, and hydraulic fluid. Old fluids can become contaminated and cause damage to the engine or other components.
Check and Refill: If you choose not to drain fluids, check and refill all fluids to the appropriate levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid.

5. Secure the Trailer and Equipment

Securing your trailer and heavy equipment is crucial to prevent theft or damage during storage.

Lock the Trailer: Use a high-quality trailer lock and hitch lock to secure your trailer. Consider using wheel chocks or locking wheel clamps for additional security.
Remove Valuables: Remove any valuable items from your trailer and equipment to reduce the risk of theft.
Cover Openings: Cover any openings, such as exhaust pipes and vents, to prevent pests from entering and causing damage.

6. Monitor and Maintain During Storage

Even while in storage, periodic monitoring and maintenance are important to keep your trailer and equipment in good condition.

Regular Inspections: Check your trailer and equipment periodically for any signs of damage, moisture buildup, or pest infestation. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
Move Occasionally: If possible, move your trailer and equipment slightly every few weeks to prevent flat spots on tires and ensure mechanical components remain in good condition.
Recharge Batteries: If you’ve removed the battery, recharge it periodically to maintain its condition and prevent it from becoming fully discharged.

Conclusion

Properly preparing your trailer and heavy equipment for long-term storage involves thorough cleaning, maintenance, protection from the elements, and regular monitoring. By following these steps, you can ensure your trailer and equipment remain in excellent condition, ready for use when needed. At Titan Trailers, we offer a range of storage solutions and services to help you maintain your equipment. Contact us today at 204-371-8966 for more information on how we can assist with your storage needs.