WINTER TRANSPORT TIPS

Jon Phillips, Managing Director of the Organisation of Horsebox and Trailer Owners, gives us a checklist for the winter season.

HORSEBOX:

Engine

· Check oil levels

· Check power steering level

· Never use start gas as a starting aid e.g. Easy Start

· Never race a cold engine

· Avoid labouring and high engine revs with a cold engine

· Drain Fuel Filter of water

· Check tension and condition of drive belts

Cooling System

· With a cold engine the coolant level should be between minimum & maximum

· Check for leaks on hoses and engine

Brakes

· Check fluid levels

· Check brake lines for corrosion

· Drain condensation water from air tanks

· Take unloaded horsebox for a test run to make sure brakes are working correctly

Lighting And Electrics

· Check battery and connections

· Check lights

Wheels and Tyres

· Check tyre pressure

· Check tyres for side wall damage

· Check wheel nuts

· Check spare wheel

· Check there are no stones jammed between rear twin wheels

Horse Area

· Check Floor

· Check partitions for security

· Check door hinges and locks

· Check ramp for security

· Check ramp hinges

· Check horse ties

· Check vent windows

· Check fresh water system ( lines, tanks and pumps)

· Check chassis and body lubrication

Living Area

· Check for gas leaks

· Check for bolts on living doors

· Ensure there are adequate seat belts for children when travelling

Now for the trailer:

1. Wheel bearings need regreasing about every two years otherwise they wear out and may overheat or seize. Now is a good time to get the bearings and brakes checked and freed off.
2. Test the whole floor area for rotting using a screwdriver. Do not forget the ramp. These areas are perhaps the most important part of all!
3. The socket connecting your car and trailer's lights are prone to corrosion due to muck sprayed up from the road and it is also a hiding place for insects. Clean out the dirt and spray the sockets and plugs with WD40 which helps to prevent corrosion and give a better contact
4. Grease all hinges and moving parts like the balance springs and tow hitch.

No one can guarantee that a breakdown will not occur. Joining a well established Organisation at least ensures that when the worst does happen, you will be put back on the road quickly and efficiently.

Further information on all aspects of equine transport may be found on our Organisation of Horsebox and Trailer Owners site: www.ohto.co.uk

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