Essential Trailer Parts: Exploring the Main Parts For a Trailer and Custom Accessories.
When it comes to trailers, understanding the various parts and accessories is crucial for both maintaining and customising these versatile cargo carriers. Whether you own a standard trailer or want to enhance its functionality, knowing about the essential components and optional accessories can significantly improve your towing experience. In this article, we will explore the main parts of a trailer, emphasising standard features and custom parts and accessories.
Trailer Body and Chassis:
The trailer body and chassis form the structural framework that holds everything together. Standard trailers commonly feature a steel or aluminium frame construction, offering durability and strength. The chassis provides support and rigidity to the trailer, ensuring it can withstand the load and road conditions, while the body provides the storage area for carrying cargo.
Couplings and Hitches:
The coupling and hitch assembly is the fundamental connection point between the trailer and the towing vehicle. Standard trailers often employ a 50mm ball coupling, which hitches to a 50mm towball mounted on the towing vehicle. These couplings are available in different types to acommodate various towing capacities.
Axles and Suspension Systems:
A trailer's axles are responsible for bearing the weight and distributing it evenly. Standard trailers typically feature single or tandem axles, with the latter providing improved load capacity and stability. Axles may come with leaf springs, coil springs, or independent suspension systems to absorb shocks and ensure a smooth ride. Custom trailers might have specialised suspension for added comfort and protection of delicate cargo.
Wheels and Tyres:
Wheels and tyres are critical components that determine the trailer's load capacity and stability. Choosing tyres designed for trailers to ensure proper load distribution, traction, and durability is essential. Customisation options include upgrading to larger wheels or opting for specialised tyres suitable for specific terrains or weather conditions - particularly for off-road use.
Braking Systems:
Trailer braking systems play a vital role in ensuring safe towing. Standard trailers above 750kg GVM often employ electric brakes that are activated when the towing vehicle's brakes are engaged. These systems feature a controller that sends a signal to the trailer's brakes.
Lighting and Electrical Components:
Proper lighting and electrical systems are essential for trailer safety and compliance with road regulations. Standard trailers are equipped with taillights, brake lights, indicators, and reflectors. Custom options may include additional LED lighting for increased visibility, interior lighting, or auxiliary power outlets for charging equipment while on the move. Integral to the operation of all of these is a trailer wiring harness.
Custom Parts and Accessories:
Numerous custom parts and accessories are available for trailers to meet specific needs or enhance functionality. These can include:
Trailer ramps: Used for loading and unloading heavy equipment or vehicles.
Toolboxes: Provide storage space for tools, straps, and other accessories.
Trailer jacks: Aid in stabilising and levelling the trailer when parked.
Spare tyre: Ensure you always have a spare tyre readily available.
Trailer covers: Protect cargo from the elements during transportation.
Trailer cage: Increasing capacity and protecting cargo.
Understanding the main parts for a trailer is essential for both standard and customised towing solutions. From couplings and hitches to axles, wheels, brakes, and lighting, each component plays a crucial role in a trailer's safe and efficient operation. Trailer owners can further tailor their trailers to specific needs by considering custom parts and accessories, improving functionality and convenience. Whether embarking on a long journey or undertaking demanding towing tasks, a well-maintained trailer equipped with the right parts and accessories can make all the difference.
Search for all parts for a trailer on our website. For standard chassis and body, or for custom trailer design, visit our sister company Trailers 2000.