One of the best parts of living in Canada is all the natural beauty and exciting wilderness to explore- and winter is no exception! As many outdoor enthusiasts know, snowmobiling is a high-octane way to enjoy the colder months of the year, but getting to your destinations safely requires more than just loading up your snowmobile and hitting the trails.

Proper winter servicing and maintenance of your snowmobile trailer are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip, but many people don’t pay enough attention to them. At Factory Outlet Trailers, we want our customers to enjoy their winter escapades with confidence, so we’ve gathered our top tips for keeping your snowmobile trailer in peak condition this winter. Let’s dive into it like a fresh snowbank!

Preventing Rust and Corrosion in Winter Conditions

Regular maintenance is vital to prolonging your snowmobile trailer’s longevity and ensuring it performs its best throughout the winter when you’re taking it out most often. Rust and corrosion are some of the biggest concerns for any trailer, especially during Canadian winters.

Snow, ice, and road salt can all wreak havoc on your snowmobile trailer’s frame and mechanical components if it isn’t adequately serviced, cleaned, and maintained between adventures to the mountains. Left unchecked, rust can weaken your trailer’s structural integrity, creating safety hazards and costly repairs down the road. To prevent rust and corrosion, we suggest:

• Clean Your Trailer Regularly: Rinse off salt and grime after every trip, especially from the undercarriage. We recommend using a pressure washer to help reach those tough spots. If weather conditions don’t support a complete wash, manually remove debris and grime by brushing down the accessible parts of your trailer with a soft, damp cloth.
• Apply a Protective Coating: If you’re prepping in advance, we recommend using a rust inhibitor or trailer-specific protective spray to shield metal components from moisture and salt before you hit the trails. Not feeling confident enough to DIY? That’s okay—Factory Outlet Trailers can service and customize your trailer purchase with undercoating, too!
• Check for Damage After Use: While your trailer probably won’t get banged around as much as your snowmobile, it’s still important to inspect your trailer for chips in the paint or coating that can expose the metal to long-term damage. Address any spots you find promptly with cleaning, followed by touch-up paint or sealant to prevent further damage.

Ensuring Tire and Brake Safety in Freezing Temperatures

Properly maintained tires and brakes are the foundation of a safe towing system during winter conditions—don’t ever hit the highway without checking these vital systems first. In icy, wet, or snowy conditions, the health of your trailer’s tires and brakes is critical for safe towing. If you neglect them, you might end up in an accident or stranded out in the cold. To properly care for your brakes and tires, we suggest:

• Tires:
  • Check your tire pressure regularly, as their air contracts during cold weather. Underinflated tires can reduce traction, increase wear, and create imbalances.
  • Inspect your tires for cracks, worn treads, or other damage before and after trips. Winter tires designed for trailers are an excellent choice for added grip.
• Brakes:
  • Before the trails open up, inspect your trailer’s brake pads and rotors for wear. If they show signs of wear or damage, bring them into Factory Outlet Trailers for servicing or replacement.
  • Test your brakes before every trip to ensure they are responsive, especially after driving through slush or ice. If you find they are sluggish or skidding, remove any ice or debris from them before hitting the road.

Essential Winter Accessories to Stock in a Snowmobile Trailer

Stocking the right accessories on your snowmobile trailer can take your winter adventures to the next level while guaranteeing your trips are safer and more enjoyable. These accessories not only enhance safety but also help ensure your trip goes smoothly, no matter what winter throws your way. Here’s a list of Factory Outlet Trailer-approved must-haves:

• Vehicle chocks and tie-downs: Secure your snowmobile to prevent movement during transport. High-quality tie-down straps and chocks with proper weight ratings are a must.
• Tire chains or spikes: These provide better traction for your trailer when driving on icy roads and help prevent you from getting stuck in park turn-outs or the backwoods.
• Emergency supplies: Keep flares, a flashlight, and a first aid kit on hand in either your vehicle or trailer storage in case of breakdowns or emergencies away from home.
• Snow removal tools: Pack a small snow shovel and ice scraper to clear off your trailer and prevent ice buildup from delicate trailer components, like your brake lines or springs.
• Spare essentials: Carry an extra tire, a jack, and tools to handle on-the-go repairs. Not sure where to store all this? Factory Outlet can customize any snowmobile trailer needs.

Let Factory Outlet Help You With Snowmobile Trailer Safety and Hit the Trails With Confidence This Year!

Caring for your snowmobile trailer is just as important as maintaining your snowmobile to ensure breakdowns or accidents don’t derail your winter wonderland adventures. By preventing rust and corrosion, guaranteeing your tires and brakes are winter-ready, and stocking up on essential accessories, you can enjoy your outdoor adventures with peace of mind.

Year-round maintenance and proper winter storage will keep your trailer in top condition so you can focus on making memories in the snow for years to come. For all your trailer needs, from sales to servicing, visit Factory Outlet Trailers– we know what Canadians need to enjoy our great outdoors from January to December. Check out our website or contact our team so you can stay safe and enjoy snowmobile season!