Summer Maintenance Tips for Your Transport Trailer: Keep Rolling Smoothly in Alberta Heat
Summer Maintenance Tips for Your Transport Trailer: Keep Rolling Smoothly in Alberta Heat
Posted on July 7, 2025
Summer’s arrival in Alberta means long hauls under big skies, sunny days on the Yellowhead Highway, and the heat shimmering off the pavement. For anyone hauling freight, Summer Maintenance Tips for Your Transport Trailer aren’t just helpful—they’re essential. The intense sun and dry conditions around Acheson can be hard on your equipment, and keeping your trailer in top shape helps avoid costly downtime when the work is busiest.
Brakes: Don’t Let Heat Slow You Down
One of the most critical areas for summer prep is your braking system. The extra heat of Alberta summers can make brake components wear faster, especially if your routes include frequent stops or mountain grades west of Edmonton. If it’s been more than a year since your brakes were inspected, it’s time for a thorough check. Listen for any grinding or squealing sounds, and measure pad thickness carefully. Heat and heavy loads can stress your brakes, so staying proactive can save you from breakdowns that leave you stranded under the summer sun.
Tires: Your Vital Connection to the Road
Few things ruin a summer haul faster than a blowout on a hot highway. Check your tire tread depth regularly and inspect sidewalls for cracks, cuts, or punctures. Alberta’s roads can be scattered with debris after the spring thaw, so look for any nails or sharp objects lodged in your tires. Maintaining proper air pressure is just as crucial. A tire running low on pressure builds excess heat quickly, increasing the risk of failure. If you spot damage on one tire, consider replacing its partner on the same axle for even wear and safer travels across the province.
Grease: Keep Things Running Smoothly
Summer heat isn’t just tough on drivers—it’s tough on moving parts. Your trailer’s gears and hydraulics must stay well lubricated to prevent metal-on-metal wear. Stick with the same grease type used previously to avoid chemical reactions that could reduce effectiveness. A fresh layer of grease helps flush out grit and keeps components operating smoothly, even under the weight of a heavy load bound for Fort McMurray or Calgary.
Suspension: Protect Your Ride and Cargo
A healthy suspension system is key for stability, safety, and cargo protection. Before summer hauls pick up speed, check welds, fasteners, and bolts for looseness or rust. Air springs and shock absorbers should show no bends or leaks, ensuring your ride stays level. A neglected suspension can lead to uneven loads and extra wear on other components, especially on Alberta’s rougher backroads, leading to rural worksites or oilfields.
Trust Local Experts for Peace of Mind
Though many maintenance tasks can be managed yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out if something looks beyond your expertise. Edmonton Trailer Sales & Leasing Ltd., right here in Acheson, AB, is ready to help keep your transport trailer safe and reliable. Staying ahead on summer maintenance means fewer roadside headaches—and more time getting the job done under Alberta’s big summer skies.