Upgrading an Old Trailer: Elements You Need to Replace

Have an old trailer that has long served its purpose? By replacing all the strategic parts you can turn it into a working but safe vehicle without buying new.

Lighting System Upgrade

Incandescent bulbs are notorious for burning out and giving off less light. LED or halogen almost never go out, the difference in light emitted from an incandescent bulb and a new set of LEDs will blow your mind area by area. They are brighter, they last longer, draw less power and resist vibration damage magnificently.

Tyres and Wheels

Never compromise on tyres. If yours are more than six years old (look on the sidewall for a date code) replace them regardless of tread depth. Rubber wears down over time and becomes more susceptible to blowouts. If you’ve been testing your own limits, perhaps think about changing to high load-rated tyres.

Bearings and Hubs

Wheel wobble melts the edge bearings and this can cause a fall in one of the wheels. Install new bearings and seals, grease them regularly. For Trailer Parts, visit autoandtrailer.com/shop/trailer-parts

Coupling and Hitch

A worn coupling is dangerous. Inspect for wear, cracks or deformation. New couplings have better security and towing characteristics, so you might just get what you pay for this time.

Mudguards and Bodywork

To keep spray off the load and other road users you need to replace cracked mudguards.

Electrics and Wiring

Corroded wiring causes endless frustration. A full-on rewire kit is cheap, but it removes the possibility of poor connections.

Modernising should not mean replacing everything — start with safety-critical parts, then convenience upgrades. Your renewed trailer will then last faithfully for another decade.

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