How to Store Your Trailer Dolly: Winter and Long-Term Care

Your trailer dolly is a significant investment that requires proper care during storage to maintain performance and longevity. Whether storing for winter or extended periods, the right preparation prevents corrosion, mechanical issues, and battery problems that lead to expensive repairs.

Preparing Your Dolly for Storage

Clean and Inspect

Remove all dirt, mud, grease, and road salt before storing. These contaminants trap moisture against metal surfaces, accelerating corrosion. Use a pressure washer or hose to remove buildup, avoiding direct spray on electrical components for powered dollies. Let the dolly dry completely before storage.

Inspect for frame damage, worn wheels and tires, loose bolts, frayed wiring on powered models, and corrosion spots. Address any problems before storage rather than discovering them next season when you're ready to use the dolly.

Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply marine-grade grease to wheel bearings and pivot points. Use spray lubricant on chains, hinges, and adjustment mechanisms. Wipe away excess to prevent attracting dirt during storage.

Battery Care for Powered Dollies

Remove the battery before long-term storage. Batteries left installed can discharge completely, causing permanent damage. Charge it to 50-60% before storage and keep it in a cool, dry location off concrete floors.

Check battery voltage every 4-6 weeks during storage. If it drops below 12.0 volts, recharge to the 50-60% range. This prevents deep discharge that permanently damages capacity. Clean terminals and coat with dielectric grease to prevent corrosion.

Cover electrical connections, control panels, and charging ports with plastic bags secured with rubber bands to protect against moisture and dust.

Storage Location Matters

Indoor storage in a garage or shed provides the best protection from weather and temperature extremes. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent condensation, especially in humid climates.

If indoor storage isn't available, use a high-quality waterproof cover that fits snugly and won't blow off. Elevate the dolly on wooden blocks or pallets to prevent ground moisture from affecting wheels and frame. Position where water won't pool around it and avoid low spots or flood-prone areas.

Winter-Specific Considerations

Ensure the dolly is completely dry before winter storage. Any trapped water can freeze and expand, cracking components or damaging seals.

Slightly over-inflate pneumatic tires before storage to compensate for pressure loss in cold weather. This prevents flat-spotting and maintains proper tire shape during months of inactivity.

If stored outdoors during winter, clear snow accumulation regularly. Heavy snow loads can bend frames or damage components. Use a cover with steep angles that sheds snow naturally rather than collecting it.

Maintenance During Storage

Check your dolly monthly during extended storage. Look for signs of moisture accumulation, rust development, or cover damage. Verify battery charge on powered models. These quick checks prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

Store your dolly where you can access it easily without moving multiple items. Accessibility encourages regular inspections and makes retrieval simpler when needed.

Preparing for Use After Storage

Before using your dolly after storage, inspect it thoroughly. Check tire pressure, test all moving parts, and verify no corrosion or damage developed during storage.

For powered dollies, reinstall the battery and test the entire system. Verify the motor responds properly, controls function correctly, and the battery holds charge. Run the dolly through its full range of motion before attaching to a trailer.

Reapply lubricant to any moving parts that seem stiff or don't move smoothly. Storage can cause lubricants to dry out or migrate away from critical areas.

Protecting Your Investment

Proper storage extends your dolly's longevity and ensures reliable performance. The time spent preparing your dolly for storage and maintaining it during extended periods pays dividends in extended equipment life, fewer repairs, and dependable operation when you need it.

Treat storage preparation as routine maintenance rather than an optional task. Your dolly will reward you with years of reliable service.