When I first began inspecting semi trailer landing gear, I quickly realized the importance of focusing on every small detail. Your first step should be a thorough visual inspection. Look for cracks or any visible deformation on the legs. I remember back in 2018, there was a notable increase in the number of accidents due to neglected landing gear inspections—nearly 15% of reported incidents involved structural failures due to missed defects. Having this data emphasized the necessity of paying attention to every visible aspect.
The next aspect to consider is the operational smoothness of the landing gear. If you turn the handle and feel resistance or hear any unusual noise, this is an immediate red flag. Industry standards typically expect you to operate the handle with minimal force; for instance, it shouldn't take more than 30 pounds of force to turn it comfortably. Last year, a friend of mine who is a fleet manager revealed that one of their major issues came from drivers complaining about overly tight handles. This, in fact, led to gear failure within months, showing just how critical this step is.
Checking the lubrication is another crucial point. According to the semi trailer landing gear manufacturer Rotontek, any lack of proper grease can drastically reduce the lifespan of the landing gear by up to 50%. This isn't just a small oversight; it impacts the efficiency and overall performance of the trailer. Every three months or after exposure to severe weather conditions, apply fresh grease. This small maintenance step could save you from a significant repair cost, which could range from $300 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the damage.
While inspecting, you should also pay attention to the bolts and other fasteners. Ensuring they are tightly secured helps provide maximum stability. I recall an incident from a 2019 news report where a company faced a major issue due to loose fasteners. It caused the landing gear to collapse while the trailer was loaded, resulting in cargo damage worth over $20,000. Knowing that such a small detail like bolt tightness can lead to such significant losses makes this an essential part of the inspection process.
In addition to this, examine the shoes on the bottoms of the landing gear. They should be level, and their surfaces shouldn't show excessive wear. For example, I once came across a landing gear where one shoe appeared thinner than the other by almost half an inch, caused likely by uneven loads. This imbalance could make jacking up the trailer risky, potentially leading to tipping or further structural damage.
Don't forget the surrounding area of the landing gear. Any signs of oil leaks from the trailer's system around the gear need immediate attention, as this could indicate more severe underlying problems. One of my colleagues mentioned finding a minor oil leak that turned out to be a precursor to a hydraulic system failure. Fixing it early saved about 40% in projected repair costs. It's always cheaper to catch these issues early than to deal with a full-scale breakdown.
Many professionals will agree that keeping a regular checklist helps track all these aspects. By following a structured sheet, you make sure each part of the landing gear receives the attention it needs. According to industry benchmarks, companies using systematic checklists reported a 20% decline in unexpected landing gear failures. A friend of mine, who manages a small fleet, successfully reduced his maintenance costs by implementing such a checklist program.
Besides these physical checks, I can't stress enough the importance of documenting each inspection. Keeping records not only helps in maintaining a history but also serves as proof in case of any disputes or insurance claims. In one notable case from 2020, a transport company successfully defended itself against a legal claim by presenting detailed maintenance logs, thereby avoiding a potential $50,000 lawsuit.
To wrap it up, while inspecting semi trailer landing gear might seem tedious, the potential risks and costs of neglect far outweigh the time and effort invested. Ensuring the mechanical integrity, performing regular lubrication, securing all fasteners, assessing operational smoothness, and maintaining clear records are steps that safeguard both the equipment and the people relying on it every day.