Boat trailer tyres play a critical role in keeping your rig safe, stable, and roadworthy. Unlike car tyres, trailer tyres often sit unused for long periods, carry heavy loads, and are frequently exposed to saltwater. Without proper care, they can deteriorate quickly and increase the risk of blowouts or accidents. Learning how to take care of your boat trailer tyres will help extend their lifespan, improve towing safety, and save money in the long run.

Check Tyre Pressure Regularly

Maintaining correct tyre pressure is one of the most important aspects of trailer tyre care. Underinflated tyres generate excess heat, leading to premature wear and potential blowouts. Overinflated tyres, on the other hand, reduce traction and can cause uneven wear. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which is usually printed on the tyre sidewall or listed in your trailer manual. Check pressure before every trip, especially if the trailer has been parked for weeks or months.

Inspect for Wear and Damage

Before towing, inspect your alloy boat trailer tyres for cracks, bulges, cuts, or embedded debris. Because trailer tyres are exposed to saltwater and sun, the rubber can dry out and crack over time. Pay close attention to sidewalls, as this is where deterioration often begins. Uneven tread wear may indicate issues with wheel alignment, axle balance, or suspension components, which should be addressed promptly.

Rinse After Saltwater Use

Saltwater is one of the biggest enemies of boat trailer tyres and wheels. After launching or retrieving your boat in saltwater, rinse the tyres, rims, and wheel hubs thoroughly with fresh water. This helps prevent corrosion, rubber breakdown, and damage to valves and wheel components. Regular rinsing also extends the life of bearings and brakes, improving overall trailer reliability.

Avoid Overloading Your Trailer

Exceeding your trailer’s load rating puts excessive stress on the tyres and increases the risk of failure. Always ensure your boat, fuel, gear, and accessories stay within the trailer’s maximum load capacity. If you frequently carry heavy equipment, consider upgrading to tyres with a higher load rating designed specifically for boat trailers.

Store Your Trailer Correctly

Proper storage significantly extends the life of boat trailer tyres. When storing your trailer for long periods, keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent UV damage. Parking on a hard, level surface reduces flat spots and uneven wear. For long-term storage, slightly lifting the trailer off the ground or rotating the tyres occasionally can help prevent deformation.

Monitor Tyre Age, Not Just Tread

Even if the tread looks fine, old trailer tyres can be unsafe. Rubber compounds degrade over time, especially in harsh marine environments. Most experts recommend replacing boat trailer tyres every five to seven years, regardless of tread depth. Check the tyre’s manufacture date, which is stamped on the sidewall, to ensure they’re not past their safe lifespan.

Carry A Spare And Proper Tool

Always carry a properly inflated spare tyre, along with the tools needed to change it. Trailer tyre failures can happen unexpectedly, and having a spare ensures you’re not stranded roadside or forced into unsafe towing conditions.

Taking care of your boat trailer tyres is essential for safe, stress-free towing. By checking tyre pressure, inspecting for damage, rinsing after saltwater use, and storing your trailer correctly, you can greatly extend tyre life and improve safety. Regular maintenance not only protects your investment but also ensures every boating trip starts and ends smoothly and safely.