The Ultimate Trailer and RV Maintenance Schedule
How often does my trailer or RV require maintenance?
You might be surprised to learn that your RV, travel trailer, camper, or utility trailer requires more frequent maintenance and inspection than a typical car or truck. RVs and trailers carrying equipment or cargo are much heavier than general motor vehicles. This causes additional stress on the components that make up the trailer.
Why is it important to perform scheduled maintenance?
By performing regular inspections and maintenance, you will significantly increase the life and safety of your trailer or RV. Dexter’s Light Duty Service Manual provides step-by-step instructions for the recommended maintenance listed in the schedule below. If you are uncomfortable performing this maintenance, take your trailer or RV to a local service center near you.
What could happen if you do not perform regular inspections or maintenance?
Performing preventive maintenance on your trailer or RV is critical to comply with industry standards, avoid breakdowns, and stay safe as you travel. By following our maintenance schedule and taking your trailer to a service center for routine maintenance, you will also save time and money in the long run by reducing downtime and lost productivity.
Trailer Maintenance Schedule
Closely follow the recommended maintenance schedule provided by Dexter® in our Light Duty Service Manual. Contact our team by using the chat on our website to answer questions about replacement parts for your RV, trailer, or camper.
| ITEM | FUNCTION REQUIRED | WEEKLY | 3 MONTHS OR 3,000 MILES | 6 MONTHS OR 6,000 MILES | 12 MONTHS OR 12,000 MILES |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brakes | Test that they are operational. | At Every Use | |||
| Brake Adjustment | Adjust to proper operating clearance (not required with Nev-R-Adjust® brakes). | X | |||
| Brake Magnets | Inspect for wear and current draw. | X | |||
| Brake Linings | Inspect for wear or contamination | X | |||
| Brake Controller | Check for correct amperage and modulation. | X | |||
| Brake Cylinders | Check for leaks, sticking. | X | |||
| Brake Lines | Inspect for cracks, leaks, kinks. | X | |||
| Trailer Brake Wiring | Inspect wiring for bare spots, fray, etc. | X | |||
| Breakaway System | Check battery charge and switch operation. | At Every Use | |||
| Hub/Drum | Inspect for abnormal wear or scoring. | X | |||
| Wheel Bearings and Cups | Inspect for corrosion or wear. Clean and repack. | X | |||
| Seals | Inspect for leakage. Replace if removed. | X | |||
| Springs | Inspect for wear, loss of arch. | X | |||
| Suspension Parts | Inspect for bending, loose fasteners and wear. | X | |||
| Suspension Wet Bolts & Equalizers | Grease. | X | |||
| Extreme Duty Bushings | Grease. | X | |||
| Hangers | Inspect welds. | X | |||
| Wheel Nuts and Bolts | Tighten to specified torque values. | X | |||
| Wheels | Inspect for cracks, dents, or distortion. | X | |||
| Tire Inflation Pressure | Inflate tires to mfg's. specifications. | X | |||
| Tire Condition | Inspect for cuts, wear, bulging, etc. | X | |||
Jump to Top
Category
Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability
The material provided by Dexter® is intended for informational purposes only. The information on these pages is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including without limitation warranties. Dexter® assumes no liability or responsibility for any errors or omissions in the website's content. Dexter® shall not be liable for damages(whether compensatory, punitive, direct, indirect, special, incidental, or consequential) to any user regarding the website content. Any user agrees to indemnify and hold Dexter® harmless from any and all claims, actions, or other proceedings (including attorney fees and court costs) arising out of the use of the website.
Contact
Learn more about Dexter®, send inquiries, request for information, or ask questions.
Reach Out