What You'll Learn
Aussie Conditions
Look, I've seen too many blokes stuck on the side of the Bruce Highway with a seized bearing or a snapped leaf spring because they ignored their trailer. After 15 years in the trade, I reckon trailer maintenance is more important than the boat itself. This guide is for the weekend fishos who want their gear to last more than two seasons in our harsh coastal conditions.
The Essential Kit
What You'll Need
While you're here...
Pre-Start Inspection
What You'll Need
The Protection Process
Deep Clean
Blast every inch with fresh water. Focus on the axle, leaf springs, and inside box sections where salt hides. If you've been in red dust, use a degreaser first.
De-salt the Brakes
If you've got trailer brakes, give them a massive flush. Use a dedicated salt-remover flush if you've been dunking it in the ocean weekly.
Address Surface Rust
Found a chip? Wire brush it back to bare metal and hit it with the cold gal spray. Don't leave it, or it'll spread like wildfire.
Grease the Bearings
Pump fresh marine grease into the nipples until the old stuff starts to push out. If the grease looks milky, water has got in. You've been warned!
Apply Lanolin Barrier
Spray Lanolin over all the nuts, bolts, leaf springs, and any moving parts. It creates a waxy film that salt can't penetrate. This is the pro secret.
Lube the Winch and Jockey Wheel
Don't forget the mechanicals. A bit of white lithium grease on the winch gears makes life much easier at the ramp after a long day.
Final Inspection Checklist
What You'll Need
A Few Hard Truths
Watch Out
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