Wheel Repair & Maintenance

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CARE & MAINTENANCE OF HORSE DRAWN VEHICLES
                           By David Modlin

VISUAL INSPECTION OF WHEELS

 

Before driving a vehicle, a visual inspection should be made of the wheels. Especially, if the vehicle has been driven over rough terrain or has been stored for an extended period of time, a visual inspection should only take a couple of minutes.

In looking at the wheels, note the condition of the rubber. Are there any cracks or tears? Are there any gaps between the rubber and the rim? On wooden wheels, if there is a problem with the rubber, the resulting uneven stress on the wheel could cause the spokes to loosen.

Next, standing either in front or behind of the vehicle, note the position of the wheels. Are they all on the same plane?  In other words, is one wheel in a position different from that of the others? An 'uneven plane on the wheels could indicate that a wheel is loose or that an axle is bent.

Then, take a look at the hubcaps. Are they all in place? If a hubcap is missing, there could be a dry wheel, a damaged bearing or dirt in the bearings. Any of these conditions could cause damage to the axle or the wheel.

Finally, check the tightness of the wheels. They could be loose in the spokes which could cause a wheel to come apart, or loose in the hub to the axle which could indicate problems inside the hub.

If a problem is discovered with any of the wheels, it is important that the vehicle be taken to a professional who not only is familiar with this type of vehicle, but is also equipped with the proper tools and expertise to make the necessary repairs.

 

CARE & MAINTENANCE OF HORSE DRAWN VEHICLES
                                                     By David Modlin

 

VISUAL INSPECTION OF BRAKES

 

       In the care and maintenance of a horse drawn vehicle, the brake system should be checked on a regular basis. The environments to which some of these vehicles are exposed can cause excessive wear and damage.  With disc brakes, something could become imbedded in the brake pad that, if not remedied promptly, could cause damage to the rotor. As a result, instead of just having to replace the pads, the rotor may also need to be replaced.  Clamps that hold the hydraulic brake lines tight to the axle could loosen and allow loops to form in the lines. A stick could then easily become hung on the line and cause it to either crimp or break.

 

       One quick way to detect a brake problem is by depressing the pedal. If there is a lack of pressure or a spongy feel, there is a problem. Take a look at the master cylinder.  There could be a leak either externally or internally. If it's external, there will be fluid either around the master cylinder or the caliper or there could be a cracked line or a loose fitting. An internal problem could be bad seals or trash in the master cylinder.  In this case, there will be no apparent external leakage.

 

       Take a few minutes regularly to check for the obvious signs of brake problems.  If there is a problem with the brakes, promptly take the vehicle to a professional for service. Do not compromise the safety of passengers or horses.