Horse Trailer Hints

By Sarah Gee
©Voice, September 2006

Most every horse owner, at some point in time, will find it necessary to trailer their horse. Whether it’s going to a horse show, getting to the trail, or a medical emergency, it is vitally important that every horse owner be prepared and knowledgeable about trailering safety. A poor choice in tow vehicle or trailer, or a poorly maintained trailer can turn a pleasurable outing into a horse owner’s nightmare. Horses can fall through rotted floorboards, trailer hitches can fail, tires can go flat, motors can breakdown, and welds can fail. However, most all of these situations can be avoided by following a few simple tips.

When shopping for a horse trailer consider the following:

• The weight of the trailer and horses should not exceed the weight of your tow vehicle. Often smaller vehicles have the power to pull the loaded trailer but they do not have the power to stop it.

• There should be adequate padding on the chest bar and stall sides.

• The trailer should have air vents on the roof and along the side panels.

• Tie ropes or chains should be long enough and have quick release safety snaps.

• The trailer should have ample height (7-8 ft.) and ample width (6-8 ft.)

• The trailer should have rubber mats to provide cushion and traction.

Every time a trailer is used it is important to perform the following routine maintenance checks:

• Tires – Tread should be at least 1/4’ deep, they should not have any signs of dry rot cracks, and they should be adequately inflated.

• Jacks and safety triangles or reflectors should be in good working order in case of a breakdown.

• Floorboards should be probed and examined for signs of rot or weakness. Bad boards should be replaced. Mats should always be lifted and the floor swept or hosed after using the trailer. Don’t replace the mats until the floor is completely dry.

• Hitch welds, safety chain welds, and snaps should be checked for rust and damage.

• Hitch ball should be well greased.

• Make sure you have good wheel chocks to use anytime the trailer is unhitched from the vehicle.

• Any screws, bolts, or nails that have worked loose and are sticking out on the inside of the trailer should be removed or covered with duct tape.

• All lights should be working and bright.

The following maintenance checks should be performed at least once a year:

• Inspection of frame for cracks.

• Repair or replacement of rotted or rusted metal.

• Inspection and greasing of all hinges, springs, etc.

• Wheels pulled and bearing checked and repacked.

• Inspection of brakes and emergency break-away cable, pin and control box.

• Inspection of wires for loose connections and frayed coverings.

• Inspection of spring shackles for wear.

References:
Trailer Safety Checklist, Equus Magazine, 151, May 1990
Basic Horse Safety Manual. American Youth Horse Council
in Cooperation with the American Horse Council. 1989