RANDOLPH, Ohio – October 13, 2016 – The following instructions provide a general description of the proper procedures, which must be considered before operating your flatbed trailer. We recommend that you follow your specific flatbed trailer manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance procedures.

To prolong the life of your trailer, it is important to inspect the trailer daily, paying specific attention to the main-beam structure. While walking around the trailer, you should be inspecting the main beam, floor and underside for cracks and damage. Since flatbed trailers are an essential part of many heavy-hauling applications, the right trailer designed to meet your application will provide years and years of productivity and profitability.

WARNING: Walk carefully on the trailer. The deck may be slippery. Step onto and leave the trailer only from a dock as high as the trailer floor or by means of a substantial ladder. Advise others of these precautions.

CAUTION: ONLY trained and qualified professional drivers must use East flatbed trailers.

Pre-Trip Checkpoints

Driver pre-trip inspections must be made before the first trip of the day and should be made before each subsequent trip during the day. Each pre-trip inspection should include the following equipment checks.

1. Inspect for any apparent damage. Look for oil, water and fuel leaks.
2. Check to see that all lights function, and that all reflectors are in place and not obscured.
3. Perform a visual check for assurance that the kingpin is engaged and locked within the fifth wheel.
4. Examine the landing gear for proper road clearance, and make sure the crank handle is securely stowed.
5. Check that the rear stairway door, if present, is securely latched before moving.
6. Check that all air springs are inflated, if you have an air suspension.
7. Make sure the spare tire is secure in the carrier. Be sure the tire carrier is securely bolted to the chassis.
8. Check tires’ air pressures. Tires should be inflated to tire manufacturer’s specifications.
9. Check wheel lug nuts for proper torque on disc wheels.
10. On wheels with see-through hubcaps, check the oil level in the wheel hubs. Add oil as needed.
11. On wheels with solid hubcaps, pull plug and check oil level in wheel hubs, adding oil as needed.
12. Visually check the brake shoe lining and brake drums for wear and proper adjustment.
13. By actuation, determine if the brake system is in proper working order.
14. Turn the ignition on and observe the ABS warning light. Verify that the light goes on for three seconds and then goes off. If the light remains on, the ABS requires service.
15. Set trailer parking brakes and rock the trailer back and forth to test the brakes.
16. Check for chafed hoses or cracked fittings.