How McFarlane’s Trailer Can Help You Find the Right LED Light Bar

April 27, 2023 by
How McFarlane's Trailer Can Help You Find the Right LED Light BarIf you use your trailer at night or in inclement weather, you may encounter issues with low visibility. Fortunately, the right trailer parts and accessories can solve this problem. LED light bars offer excellent illumination and come in a variety of styles, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your utility trailer.

LED Light Bars Offer a Variety of Benefits

Light bars contain several LED lights, creating illumination over a wide area. LEDs are a specific type of lightbulb lauded for their durability and minimal heat generation. Since they don't produce as much heat as other options, they're excellent for work sites where individuals are already sweating and uncomfortable. Minimal heat also reduces fire risk, as you don't have to worry about flammable materials reaching ignition temperature.LEDs also have a long lifetime and high energy efficiency. That means you don't have to change them as often, saving you money and time. Additionally, their low power requirements mean you can add several to your trailer without overwhelming your truck's electrical system. You can even hook them up yourself since they're easy to install.Finally, you can find LED light bars in a variety of colours, including bulbs that shift hues. This access ensures you find an accessory that suits your purposes.

Importance of Light During Construction

Proper illumination is a safety issue in construction sites, as workers handle dangerous equipment. Without bright lights, individuals may accidentally hurt themselves or make a mistake. The former can lead to medical bills and even long-term health problems depending on the injury. The latter can make the contractor vulnerable to lawsuits if the mistake isn't caught and causes issues in the future.Lighting is also essential in areas with heavy foot traffic, especially unpaved spaces or places with lots of debris. Uneven footing may cause tripping, which can be especially dangerous around heavy machinery or when carrying materials. There's also the risk of vehicle and heavy machinery operators not seeing workers in their way, potentially causing life-changing accidents. Setting up adequate lighting in a designated transport zone ensures both operators and those on foot can prioritize safety.Finally, construction works can use strobing and coloured lights to signal hazards. Red flashing lights are a universal signal for danger, alerting workers well before seeing posted signs.

McFarlane Trailer Sales Provides a Wide Brand Selection

If you don't know where to start searching for utility trailer lights, Mcfarlane Trailer Sales can help with our wide selection. Access to a range of brands gives you a better idea of what's available and saves you the trouble of searching multiple websites for just the right model.For example, Rampage Products produces tailgate light bars. If you do a lot of night driving, this is the perfect way to ensure visibility on the highway.Jammy offers scene lights to illuminate large, open spaces. You can even get an angled bar to improve targeting.Uni-Bond provides a variety of LED bars, including one shaped like double-sided arrows. Specific models have pre-programmed flash patterns, allowing you to signal according to the situation.If you need spotlights as well as bars, Go Rhino has you covered. The spotlights come in 2-foot by 3-foot or 3-foot-square models, while bars are available in 6-inch, 10-inch and 20-inch options.When you're ready to buy, don't search "LED lights near me." Instead, check out the stock at McFarlane Trailer Sales. We only carry the highest quality brands, ensuring you can make your purchase with confidence. Additionally, we offer a variety of other accessories so you can fully customize your utility trailer. For more information, give us a call or visit us online.

Looking for a Bike Rack? McFarlane’s Has a Variety to Choose From

April 20, 2023 by
Looking for a Bike Rack? McFarlane's Has a Variety to Choose FromBike Riding is popular across Canada. If you like to take your bikes to new locations to enjoy new scenery or to exercise in a new spot, you might be looking for bike racks. McFarlane’s is known for trailer parts and accessories, but we have a large selection of bike racks to install on your vehicle. Here are a few things to know about choosing the right bike rack for your needs. If you still have questions, ask our experts for more details and specifics.

Roof Racks 

Roof racks come in different styles. You can find roof racks that are mounted on the roof of your vehicle permanently or you can choose a rack with suction cups that can be removed when you aren’t transporting bikes. Your bikes ride on the top of your car, which means they won’t be damaged if you are rear-ended. However, many people forget that the bikes are on top of the vehicle and try to drive into the garage with the bikes. Learning how to put a bike on a roof rack can be cumbersome, especially if you are short and the vehicle’s roof is high or if your bike is very heavy. Your vehicle may lose fuel efficiency, too. Bikes on the roof of your ride aren’t aerodynamic.

Hitch Racks 

A hitch rack is probably the most convenient method of transporting bikes, but you have to have a hitch for installation. Newer hitch racks usually fold up when not in use, so you don’t have to worry about the hitch getting damaged when you aren’t hauling bikes. The bikes won’t impact your fuel efficiency as much as being hauled on a roof rack. There’s no lifting over your head. Putting the bikes on and off the rack is very easy. The hitch rack does extend the length of your vehicle, so you do need to be aware of that when parking or backing up.

Trunk Racks 

Trunk racks tend to be popular, largely due to their affordability. However, trunk racks are not a permanent installation, so you have to remove them and reattach them each time you want to take your bikes. Trunk racks may only handle two bikes maximum. If you have a family, this style may not work well for you. Bikes are held by the top tube, so not all bikes work with a trunk rack. You also need to use caution so that the bike pedals don’t damage your car’s paint job. Don’t have a trunk? We have a selection of tailgate pads that fit pickups so your bikes are secure during your trip.

Check The Catalogue For Bike Rack Options

Start by checking out the Thiebert catalogue which has over 10 pages of different bike rack options. There is a large selection of bike racks for all types of vehicles, from cars to pick-ups, RV campers, and more. Consider how many bikes you need to haul. Think about the types of bikes you haul. If the tires are larger, such as on fat bikes, you may need a rack that can handle different shapes. You should also consider the weight of your bikes. Most racks come with a weight limit. Heavier bikes may need a different style rack.Our experts are here to answer your questions about bike racks, utility trailers or horse trailers. We know trailers and accessories. Contact McFarlane Trailer Sales to discuss new trailers or used trailers that fit your needs. Need service on your trailer to get it spring ready? We offer all types of trailer repairs and maintenance to keep your trailer safe on the road.  

McFarlane’s Offer GPS Units For All Trailers

April 13, 2023 by
McFarlane's Offer GPS Units For All TrailersTransporting goods requires a trailer, plain and simple. Trailers, of course, are used to haul everything from livestock to heavy equipment, and they come in a wide range of sizes and types to meet different needs. But with the convenience of trailers comes the risk of theft, which is why many trailer owners are turning to GPS units for added security and peace of mind.At McFarlane Trailer Sales, we understand the importance of protecting your investments. That's why we have partnered with Wheresafe to offer GPS units for trailers of all types. Here are some of the benefits of using GPS technology for your trailer.1. Real-time Location TrackingWith a GPS unit installed on your trailer, you can monitor its location in real time from anywhere using a smartphone or computer. This is especially useful if you're transporting high-value loads or have multiple trailers that need to be monitored.2. Theft PreventionTrailers are often targeted by thieves because they can be easily disconnected from a vehicle when no one is looking, or when they are parked overnight. But with a GPS unit, you can receive instant alerts if your trailer moves outside of a predefined area or if it's moved during off-hours. This allows you to take quick action and alert law enforcement to recover your stolen property, whether you have an enclosed cargo trailer, flatbed or landscape trailer. 3. Increased EfficiencyKnowing the exact location of your trailers can help you optimize your fleet's routing and reduce downtime. With GPS tracking, you can monitor trailer utilization and identify inefficiencies that may be costing you time and money. It also helps you see if any of your drivers are off track, and can pinpoint locations in the event of a hijacking.4. Improved Customer ServiceMoreover, GPS tracking can help you improve customer service by providing accurate delivery estimates and location updates. This can help you keep customers informed and reduce the likelihood of missed or delayed deliveries. A happy customer is a loyal customer. 5. Reduced Insurance CostsMany insurance companies offer discounts for trailers equipped with GPS units. By installing a GPS unit, you'll be able to provide proof of the trailer's location, which can lower your insurance rates.

McFarlane's Partnership With Wheresafe

At McFarlane Trailer Sales, we believe in providing our customers with the best possible products and services. That's why we have partnered with Wheresafe to offer GPS tracking for our trailers. Wheresafe is a leading provider of GPS tracking solutions for trailers, and they offer a range of features and services to help you protect your investments.Their GPS units are easy to install and come with a user-friendly interface that allows you to monitor your trailers from anywhere. You can set up geofences, receive alerts, and track your trailers in real time using the Wheresafe app or web portal.In addition to GPS tracking, Wheresafe also offers theft recovery services to help you recover your stolen property. Their team of experts works with law enforcement to locate and retrieve stolen trailers, and they offer a 100% recovery guarantee.

The Trailer Parts and Accessories You Need

Using GPS technology for your trailer is a wise investment, and we understand the importance of protecting your assets. Our partnership with Wheresafe ensures that your trailer stays safe and in your yard. We also offer a full range of component parts via a searchable catalogue on our website. Our goal is to give you a fast and convenient customer experience that keeps your fleet operating in top form seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Contact us today to find the right accessory for your needs. 

How Often Should You Have Your Trailer Serviced?

February 27, 2023 by
How Often Should You Have Your Trailer ServicedPeople often underestimate the need for trailer service and repair. While repairs can be mitigated with proper maintenance, many trailer owners do not adhere to an adequate maintenance schedule.A trailer needs attention to function as you expect. You need to keep an eye on tire wear and bearing grease. You need to wash the bed and undercarriage to prevent rust.McFarlane sells quality trailers, but you risk losing money on your investment if you do not keep up with maintenance. Taking care of your trailer means understanding maintenance schedules and adhering to checklists. It also means taking your trailer in to be serviced when necessary.

Understanding Trailer Maintenance Schedules

Just like an automobile, your trailer requires routine maintenance. A maintenance schedule helps you keep track of everything your trailer needs when it needs it.When you purchased your trailer, it should have come with a service manual. If you lost your manual, you can try contacting the manufacturer for a copy or looking for one online. Most manuals recommend having your trailer serviced every six months.Depending on your trailer, it may have specific parts or components that require more frequent maintenance. For example, many manufacturers recommend checking tire pressure, wheel torque, and breakaway functionality more often to ensure the usability of the trailer.

Acknowledging the Importance of Trailer Maintenance Checklists

Many trailer owners want to service their trailers on their own, but DIY options are often a mistake, especially if you are unfamiliar with the service steps and requirements. For example, if you are unaware of the signs of a faulty component or cannot adjust brakes, it is best to take your trailer to a service technician.If you feel confident in your abilities, you will want to look for the service checklist provided by your trailer's manufacturer. If you cannot find the checklist from your trailer's manufacturer, you can substitute one from another company.Checklists are crucial to proper servicing because they inform you how and when to care for each part. Only knowledgeable owners should try DIY servicing; it is usually best to take your trailer to a shop.

Importance of Checking Wheel Bearings and Tires

Wheel bearings ensure your trailer moves and operates smoothly. The bearings require routine greasing to ensure they function correctly. Most trailers will only need to be greased every 10,000 or 12,000 miles or every six months, whichever occurs first. Smaller travel trailers will require more frequent greasing, with many manufacturers suggesting every 2,000 miles.You should grease any other components at the same time as your wheel bearings. Grease does not last forever. If you use the trailer often, you may need to grease it more frequently. A professional technician can help you figure out how often is appropriate for your trailer and use case.Besides greasing the bearings and components, checking your trailer's tires is a vital safety measure. The tires take more abuse than any other part of your trailer. When assessing your tires, you want to ensure there is enough tread — a minimum depth of 2/32". You'll also want to check the tire pressure. Check the owner's manual for proper pressure requirements. Finally, check the tires for any signs of cracking or rotting. If you notice any significant wear, you should replace the tires.

Calling McFarlane Trailer Sales for Your Trailer Needs

Routine trailer service is crucial to ensure the longevity of your trailer. However, adhering to the strictest maintenance schedule will not prevent normal wear and tear. When it is time to replace your trailer, head over to one of Ontario's most trusted dealers, McFarlane Trailer Sales. Contact a representative to learn about the current inventory and services.

McFarlane Trailers Sales: How To Safely Load A Trailer

February 20, 2023 by
How To Safely Load A TrailerWhether you own or are looking to purchase utility trailers or any trailer, knowing how to load correctly is crucial to safe hauling. Improper loading can create risks to the trailer, equipment, driver, and other people on the road. Before you invest in a trailer, ensure you understand the fundamentals of loading.

Understanding Safe Loading

When loading a trailer, you need to consider various factors, including cargo, vehicle, and the trailer itself. Not all cargo is equal, and the weight distribution and shape of equipment or materials will matter when it comes to loading and placement. To stay safe, always follow four rules when loading your trailer.1. Check the Specs of the Tow VehicleYou may know that your trailer can hold up to 10,000 pounds, but that doesn't mean your vehicle can manage such a heavy load. Before loading anything onto your trailer, make sure you check the specifications of the tow vehicle. The last thing you want to do is damage your truck.2. Stay Below Weight Capacity LimitsTrailers, by design, are workhorses. The vehicles can handle significant loads, but people can get a little overzealous when loading their trailers. It is essential to know the weight of your haul. You might meet trailer capacity and still have room on the trailer bed. Having space does not necessarily mean you can load more, not even with enclosed cargo trailers.3. Obey the 60/40 RuleMost professionals agree that when loading your trailer, you need to follow the 60/40 rule. The rule suggests that 60% of the cargo is toward the front of the axle and 40% behind it. Obviously, there might be occasions when obeying the rule isn't possible, but it is a safety measure for most jobs.4. Center Heavy ObjectsWhen moving heavier equipment, it is best to center it over the axle, which seems to go against the 60/40 rule. With extremely heavy or dense cargo, it is safer to load the equipment over the axle, capitalizing on the strength and design of the trailer.

Acknowledging Risks of Improper Loading

Improperly loading a trailer can lead to safety issues and potential hazards. Since you intend to operate the trailer on the roadways, improper loading is a safety risk for yourself and others. Improper loading techniques can lead to four potential problems.1. SwayingIf the weight is not distributed correctly on the trailer bed, you may experience swaying as you drive. Swaying can make it challenging to control your vehicle and stay in your lane. You want to distribute the load correctly to ensure driver control.2. Trouble brakingPoor weight distribution can also make it difficult to brake. If the load is too far ahead of the axle, it will put excessive pressure on the tow vehicle. If it is too far back on the trailer, it will pull on the tow vehicle, causing significant drag.3. DamageImproper loading can also cause significant and costly damage to your trailer. For example, if the cargo is too heavy, it can bend the axle. Also, if overloaded, the trailer tongue can break, which is why it is vital to pay attention to stated weight capacities.4. AccidentsSwaying, inadequate braking, and damage can all result in severe accidents on the road. Knowing tow capacities and obeying loading rules can minimize risks.

Buying Your New Trailer From McFarlane Trailer Sales

Now that you understand the importance of safe loading and know the rules, it is time to invest in your new trailer. Contact a representative at McFarlane Trailer Sales and ask about the available inventory of dump trailers and customization options.
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