Curtainsider trailers are built for busy transport operations. They are used every day across general haulage, multi-drop deliveries, pallet networks and a wide range of fleet applications.
Because they are so practical and flexible, they also work hard. Curtains are opened and closed, straps are tightened, buckles are used constantly, forklifts load from the side, and trailers spend their lives out on the road in all weather.
Looking after a Curtainsider properly can make a real difference to how long it lasts, how well it performs and how much downtime it causes over its service life.
At Montracon, we build Curtainsider trailers in-house in Doncaster with quality, strength and longevity in mind. Through Montracon Parts and our aftersales support, we also help operators keep their trailers maintained, repaired and ready for the road.
Here is a practical care guide for keeping your Curtainsider trailer in good condition.
1. Check the curtains regularly
The curtain is one of the hardest-working parts of a Curtainsider trailer.
It protects the load, supports day-to-day access and plays an important role in the overall condition of the trailer body. Torn curtains, worn material, damaged edges or loose sections should not be ignored.
Small tears can quickly become larger, especially when the trailer is moving at speed or exposed to wind and rain. Water can also get into the trailer body, which may damage the floor, internal fittings and the load itself.
Regular checks should include:
tears or cuts in the curtain
worn or fraying edges
damaged curtain poles
loose or missing fixings
areas where the curtain no longer sits correctly
If damage is spotted, it is always better to deal with it early rather than waiting for it to become a bigger repair.
2. Keep straps, buckles and tensioners in good condition
Straps, buckles and tensioners are used constantly on a Curtainsider. Over time, regular use, weather exposure and general wear can affect how well they perform.
Damaged straps, broken buckles or poor tension can leave curtains loose, which can affect both safety and load security.
Operators should check that straps are not frayed, buckles are not cracked or damaged, and tensioners are working as they should. Anything that does not secure properly should be repaired or replaced before the trailer goes back out.
Montracon Parts can support operators with replacement curtain parts, buckles, straps and related body components to help keep Curtainsiders in working order.
3. Inspect the curtain rails
Curtain rails are easy to overlook, but they have a big impact on how smoothly the trailer operates.
If a curtain is difficult to pull, jams regularly or does not sit properly when closed, the rail may need attention. Dirt, damage or wear in the rail can make loading and unloading slower and may put extra strain on the curtain system.
A quick check of the rails during regular maintenance can help prevent unnecessary delays. Rails should be kept clean, free from obstruction and checked for visible damage.
For operators using Curtainsiders every day, small issues with curtain movement can quickly become frustrating for drivers and loading teams, so it is worth keeping on top of them.
4. Look after the trailer floor
The floor takes a lot of pressure from forklifts, pallets and repeated loading. Over time, damage can build up if the floor is not checked properly.
Look for cracks, soft spots, loose sections, water damage or areas where the floor has started to lift. Water entering through damaged curtains, doors or seals can make floor problems worse, especially if it is left over time.
A strong trailer floor is essential for safe loading and day-to-day operation. If damage is found, it should be inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
5. Check rear doors, seals and locking bars
Rear doors are another important part of a Curtainsider trailer that should be checked regularly.
Doors should open and close properly, locking bars should engage securely, and seals should be in good condition. Poorly sealing doors can allow water into the trailer body, which may affect the load, the floor and internal fittings.
Operators should check:
hinges
locking bars
door seals
rubber gaskets
handles and catches
signs of water ingress
If a rear door is difficult to close or does not seal correctly, it should be looked at before the issue becomes worse.
6. Keep the underframe clean
The underframe is exposed to road salt, grit, mud and water throughout the year.
During winter, road salt can accelerate corrosion if it is left sitting on the chassis or underframe. A regular clean, especially after wet or salted road conditions, can help protect the trailer’s long-term condition.
Cleaning the underframe also gives operators a better chance to spot damage early. Look for corrosion, cracks, loose components, missing bolts or anything that looks different from the previous check.
A clean underframe is easier to inspect and easier to maintain.
7. Check tyres and running gear
Tyres and running gear play a major role in trailer safety, reliability and long-term performance.
Uneven tyre wear, incorrect pressure or visible tyre damage can place extra stress on axles, suspension and chassis components. Regular checks help operators spot issues before they lead to further damage or unexpected downtime.
Pre-use checks should include tyre pressure, tread condition, visible damage, wheel nuts and any signs of uneven wear.
Montracon Parts supports operators with braking, axle and chassis components to help keep trailers safe, reliable and road-ready.
8. Deal with damage as soon as possible
A small issue on a trailer rarely stays small forever.
A tear in a curtain, a damaged buckle, a loose fitting or a crack in the bodywork can all become bigger problems if they are left too long. Water can get in, corrosion can spread and the trailer may eventually need more time off the road.
Prompt repairs help reduce downtime and protect the long-term condition of the trailer.
One of the benefits of Montracon trailer construction is repairability. With bolted construction used across Montracon trailers, repairs can be more straightforward than on welded alternatives, helping operators get trailers back into service more efficiently.
9. Use the right replacement parts
When parts need replacing, choosing the right components makes a difference.
Cheaper alternatives may seem like a saving at the time, but poor fit, faster wear or lower quality can lead to further issues later. Using high-quality OE or approved aftermarket trailer parts helps protect trailer performance and reliability.
Montracon Parts supplies a wide range of trailer components and replacement parts, including body parts, curtain products, door parts, braking and axle parts, chassis components and consumables.
With access to trusted brands and support from a knowledgeable parts team, Montracon Parts can help operators find the right parts for their Curtainsider trailers.
10. Use aftersales and repair support when needed
Keeping a Curtainsider in good condition is not just about spotting problems. It is also about getting the right support when something does need attention.
Montracon supports operators with aftersales, repair support and access to a nationwide network of authorised repair agents. Combined with Montracon Parts, this gives operators the backup they need to keep trailers maintained, repaired and ready for the road.
Getting a repair completed promptly is almost always better than letting the problem develop.
Keep your Curtainsider working for longer
A Curtainsider trailer is a long-term investment, and looking after it properly helps protect that investment.
Regular checks, prompt repairs, quality replacement parts and reliable aftersales support all play a part in keeping your trailer on the road for longer.
Whether you need Curtainsider trailer parts, repair support, aftersales advice or information about the Montracon Curtainsider range, our team is ready to help.
01302 732500
[email protected]
www.montraconparts.com
www.montracon.com
