Since transfer trailers are an essential part of the waste management system, the proper maintenance procedures will provide years of productivity and profitability.
By Charlie Benton
To prolong the life of your trailer, it is important to inspect the trailer daily, paying specific attention to the rear area. While walking around the inside and outside of the trailer, you are inspecting the floors and sidewalls for wear or punctures.
The following instructions provide a general description of the proper procedures, which must be considered before operating your transfer trailer. It is recommended to follow your specific transfer trailer manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance procedures.
WARNING: Because refuse trailers can cause injury or death, they must be operated only by properly trained and qualified professional drivers. Trailer operation by untrained or inexperienced persons could result in serious injury, death or damage to the equipment.
Pre-Trip Checkpoints
Driver pre-trip inspections must be made before the first trip of the day, and should be made before each trip during the day. Each pre-trip inspection should include the following equipment checks:
- Inspect for any apparent damage. Look for oil, water and fuel leaks.
- Check to see that all lights function, and check that all reflectors are in place and not obscured.
- Perform a visual check for assurance that the kingpin is engaged and locked within the fifth wheel.
- Examine the landing gear for proper road clearance, and make sure the crank handle is securely stowed.
- Check that the tailgate latches open and close.
- Make sure the tailgate latching linkage is properly adjusted. When latched, the locking cams must pass over center on all tailgate latches.
- Visually inspect all suspension springs for broken leafs and equal arch.
- Be sure the suspension springs are secured within the hangers and equalizers.
- Check that all air springs are inflated, if you have an air suspension.
- Check tire pressures. Tires should be inflated to tire manufacturer’s specifications.
- Check that the wheel lugs are tight and the rims are not slipping on spoke wheels. Check wheel lug nuts for proper torque on disc wheels.
- On wheels with see-through hubcaps, check the oil level in the wheel hubs. Add oil as needed.
- On wheels with solid hubcaps, pull plug and check oil level in wheel hubs, adding oil as needed.
- Make sure the spare tire is secure in the carrier and that the carrier is bolted to the chassis.
- Visually check the brake shoe lining and brake drums for wear and proper adjustment.
- By actuation, determine if the brake system is in proper working order.
- Turn the ignition on and observe the ABS warning light. Verify that the light goes on for three seconds and then goes off. If the light remains on, the ABS requires service.
- Set trailer parking brakes and rock the trailer back and forth to test the brakes.
- Make sure there is sufficient hydraulic oil in the hydraulic tank.
- Check for chafed hoses or cracked fittings.
An Essential Part
Since transfer trailers are an essential part of the waste management system, the right trailer designed to meet your application will provide years and years of productivity and profitability.
Charlie Benton is Product Manager for Refuse Trailers at East Manufacturing (Randolph, OH). Charlie began his career at East as Southeast Regional Manager, selling its full line of trailer products. For more information, call (888) 405-3278.