Alpha Trailers

Maintenance Guide

Look after it, and it'll outlast the boat.

A well-maintained galvanised trailer can comfortably do 15+ years of NZ saltwater service. Here's what to check, and when.

Routine

The full schedule.

After every launch

  • Rinse the trailer thoroughly with fresh water — chassis, axle, springs, lights, brakes.
  • Pay extra attention to brake callipers and bearing buddies — salt sits in there.
  • Check the lights are draining properly and the LEDs haven't flooded.

Every three months (or 5,000km)

  • Inspect tyres for wear, sidewall damage and correct pressure.
  • Top up bearing buddies with marine grease — until you see clean grease come out.
  • Check brake cable adjustment and free travel.
  • Tighten wheel nuts to spec after the first 100km of any new tyre fitment.

Every 12 months

  • Service the wheel bearings — strip, inspect, regrease and reseal.
  • Inspect the U-bolts and spring shackles for any signs of corrosion or movement.
  • Check the coupling, safety chains, and breakaway cable (if fitted).
  • Touch up any minor galvanising damage with cold-galv paint.

If something's not right

  • Don't drive home on it if a brake is dragging or a wheel is wobbling — it'll cost more to fix later.
  • Got a noise, a pull, or something you can't diagnose? Send us a quick email or call — we'll talk it through.

Need parts or a service?

We stock the most common wear items and can ship NZ-wide. Or bring your trailer to the Waikato yard for a service.

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