What to Consider When Transporting Your Classic Vehicle

Fall is the perfect time of year to squeeze in a few more weekend getaways before the harsh, frigid conditions of winter arrive. But planning a mini-vacation doesn’t necessarily mean you have to leave everything you love behind. That includes your most prized possession: your classic vehicle.

It’s something that you are proud to own, and it shouldn’t be wasting away in your garage, even when you do go on vacation. While there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take your car with you, you do have to know that it is being transported to your final destination securely. Here are a few ways you can make sure your vehicle is properly transported on your upcoming get-away.

Decide the Best Type of Trailer for Transport

When it comes to transporting your classic vehicle, there can be a wrong choice. This is a decision that will greatly impact the condition of your car upon arriving to your destination. That’s why it’s so important that when it comes to trailers, one size does not fit all.

You’ll need to decide if your classic car is going to be carried in an open trailer or a closed one. While an open trailer transport might be the more budget-friendly option, the risk of damage on the open road is greater. On top of that, open trailers may not be properly equipped with a winch for non-running vehicles. That’s why, unless you are planning on having your car specially restored, we recommend investing in a closed trailer.

Properly Prepare for the Trip Ahead

Any well-organized trip centers around one very important element—a complete to-do list. When it comes to planning a vacation that involves transporting your classic vehicle, you must be especially prepared.

Every time you plan on using a trailer to transport your car, take a few minutes to carefully check the lights, brakes, wiring, and tires for wear and pressure on your trailer. It’s also recommended that you examine the hitch, chains, the breakaway wire, and the tightness of the lug nuts before departure. Once you are confident that those elements are secure, you are all set for your journey!

Don’t just Focus on the Dollar Sign

You may decide it is best to hire a professional service to transport your car. How you choose to transport your beloved classic vehicle should never be based solely on price. In fact, if a carrier service offers you an exceptionally low deal, that may indicate that that their service is poor or at the very least, unreliable.

Obviously, find out as much about a potential carrying service as you can before hiring them—we recommend you visit the Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s website to look up a company’s insurance status and safety record. But no matter what professional carrier you decide to go with,  factor the cost out of your decision as much as possible. Keep in mind that most reputable carriers have similar cost structures.

Terry’s Auto Body and Trailer Sales cares just as much about your classic vehicle as you do. We would be proud to help you transport your beloved car as safely and conveniently as possible with our wide array of trailer options. Call us today at 641-985-2536 or visit us in person off of Hwy 9 in Riceville.

Inspecting Your Trailer Before a Road Trip: What to Look For

The last thing you want on your scenic road trip to your vacation destination is car problems. A flat tire, mechanical issues or even a burnt out light bulb can mean hours or even days of lost vacation time. Like all vehicles, It’s important to check up on your car’s maintenance and the preventive care you could be doing before a road trip.

1. First things first, check your tires for splitting, flation, and dry rot. And of course, use your own judgement if your tires will be able to make the trip or not.

2. If your trailer has brakes, get a brake inspection beforehand so your trailer can stop safely.You don’t want a locked wheel bearing!

3. Along with your car lights, make sure your trailer’s lights are working. No lights could wind up in a costly ticket!

4.  Whatever vehicle you choose to tow your trailer, make sure it has enough strength and power. The ball on the hitch needs to be the right size. In case your ball hitch fails, double check that chains are able to catch to the trailer. Packing your trailer could change that, but it’s also important to remember equal weight distribution when comes to packing.

In the end, it’s a whole lot of double checking, but it's necessary when it comes to having a stress free road trip!

Since 1986, Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales has been servicing vehicles and trailers across northeast Iowa and southeastern Minnesota. We offer a variety of trailers and parts for all of your auto needs! With our wide trailer part selection and repair experts, we can get your trailer into tip top condition before your road trip!

Located off Highway 9 in Riceville, we are proud to offer trailers and parts from name brands including PJ Trailers, American Hauler, RoadRunner Manufacturing and Zimmerman Trailers. Stop into Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales and choose from our selection of dump trailers, utility trailers, tilt trailers, car haulers, cargo trailers, snowmobile trailers, car trailers, and truck beds. Our shop also services a range of trailer needs including brake repair, wiring, wheel replacement, axle replacement and much more. With a large selection of trailer parts, we can supply you with brakes, lights, seals, trailer plugs, tarp kits, tires and batteries to keep your trailer up-to-date. If you’re ready to improve your trailer or vehicle, contact the professionals at Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales! For more information, visit www.ricevilletrailers.com or call 641-985-2536.

Terry’s Auto Body Wants You Prepared for the Dangers of the Season

Winter has officially arrived, and even though we are only in the month of December, there is no doubt that the weather outside is frightful. The frigid temperatures and the constant snowfall mean hazardous road conditions for you and your loved ones. No matter how many winters you have seen and no matter the number of times you have driven through a snowstorm, that is no excuse for being unprepared for what dangers and challenges this winter can present you with.  While many consider the most wonderful time of the year, some could argue that it is also one of the most dangerous times of the year.

Terry’s Auto Body and Trailer Sales wants to make sure you are driving as safely as possible at all times, but especially during these upcoming winter months. A big component of being safe on the road is being prepared for emergency situations. 

Take a look at some of our top tips this winter to keep you and your family safe on the road, especially in case of an emergency!

Have a First Aid Kit on Hand

You never know if you are going to need it—we pray that you don’t, but just in case, it is essential to be ready for anything. As well as an assortment of Band-Aids, the first aid kit in your vehicle should include adhesive tape, gauze pads, aspirin, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream or ointment, and anything particular to you or your family.

Stock Your Car with Items Needed for Roadside Assistance

Having items such as a spare tire, orange cones, flashlights, a fire extinguisher, and a minimum of three reflective warning triangles will be very useful to you in case of a roadside emergency. 

Is your Cell Phone Charged?

Your phone needs to be prepared for an emergency just as much as you need to be! Before every trip you take, whether it just be down the street to the grocery store, or if you are going on a cross-country trip, make sure your phone has a full battery every time. A portable power bank is great to have in a pinch as well.

For other important winter driving tips, visit the Iowa Department of Transportion's website to bring these important things top of mind as we battle the winter elements. If you have teens that are new drivers this info should be reviewed regularly with them. 

Trailer Wheel Bearings

Have you ever noticed a trailer stuck on the side of the road? Chances are, there was an issue with the trailer’s wheel bearings. Changing bearings is a job that is easy, but often neglected. Trailer bearings are an important component in successful towing and should be maintained for safety and functionality. Before your next trip, make sure the job is done and the bearings have been changed on your trailer.  

Bearings are essential to keep dust and water out.
Photo via ISTOCKPHOTO

Prior to taking the wheel, here’s what you should know about trailer bearings!

Importance of properly maintained wheel bearings: No parts are more critical for a trailer than the bearings. The center part of a wheel is called the hub, which works smoothly due to the bearings inside. Trailer wheel bearings ensure that your trailer performs reliably. They help provide a smooth towing ride and prevent friction from slowing you down.

How does wheel assembly and bearings work: While trailer bearings are small, they play a big role in your trailer. Bearings are made of two parts, the cup that is attached to the hub and the cone containing steel ball rollers. The steel balls allow the hub to roll around the axle instead of rubbing against it. This creates a smoother ride without rocking and rattling.

Replacing trailer bearings: Trailer bearings should be inspected or replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles. To replace them, find the right size and type of bearings for your trailer’s wheel hub. Remove the lugs, nuts, tire, wheel hub and central spindle to access the wheel bearing. Clean the parts, reassemble with the new wheel bearing and add fresh grease to keep the trailer rolling along smoothly.

If you have any questions about your trailer or trailer parts including the bearings, contact Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales. In addition to selling, replacing and repairing trailer bearings, we also provide a range of other trailer services including brake repair, wiring and light repair, welding, new tire and wheel replacement, axle replacement, seal replacement and more.

If you have a question about your trailer, please contact Terry’s Autobody and Trailer Sales at 641-985-2536.

Driving Tips for a Safe Summer

It’s only a month before school is out, drivers are rushing to get to their weekend getaways and road construction is in full-force.  Summer driving is here!  The dangers of driving in summer are just as hazardous, but less obvious, than the dangers of driving in winter.  In fact, the Department of Transportation reports that summer is the most dangerous driving season of them all.

Before you hit the road this summer, take a look at our tips for safe driving:

Be Cautious – When warm weather arrives, you can expect to see an increase in motorcycles and bicycles on the road.  The most important thing to do is to pay attention to cyclists and give them plenty of space.  You should also be cautious of stop-and-go traffic in construction zones and rush hour.  If possible, anticipate heavy traffic and choose a different route with less traffic.

Manage the Heat – No matter the season, your car should always be packed with emergency essentials. When disaster strikes, travel gear and supplies can make a huge difference in your safety. Good emergency supplies to have in your car include a flashlight with extra batteries, booster cables, first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable food.  It’s always a good idea to keep sunglasses and water at within arm’s reach.

Summer Storms – Summer storms are dangerous and deadly.  If possible, avoid driving in strong winds, heavy rain, hail and lightning.  If you must drive during a storm, be cautious and drive slower.  Rain can loosen grease, creating a slippery surface for wheels. In addition, rain can be particularly dangerous when water pools on top of pavement and causes hydroplaning.

Proper Trailer Techniques – Are you hauling a boat or recreational vehicle for some summer fun?  Driving a vehicle with a trailer hitched behind you is very different than driving a car alone.  Be sure to follow the proper rules and regulations enforced by the Department of Transportation.  You can find a complete list of Iowa DOT trailer regulations here: http://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/dlmanual/section7.pdf

If you are in need of a new trailer or service to your old trailer, stop into Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales!  We can help get your trailer prepared for a busy summer season.  Any questions?  Give us a call at 641-985-2536.