A trailer wheel is mounted using lug nuts. Because trailer tires carry a heavier load, lug nuts require regular inspection for tightness. It is your responsibility to make sure that the lug nuts are properly tightened to avoid excess looseness from causing a wheel to separate from the vehicle. When a vehicle is new, when tires have been replaced, and prior to departing on every trip, check the lug nuts for tightness. Check the lug nuts once again after driving 50 miles, and thereafter every 100 miles until the torque remains constant.

Lug nuts that fail to stay tight may indicate a problem with the wheels, bearings, hubs or lugs. Stripping out the threads inside a lug nut can result from over tightening. Loose lug nuts can generate heat. Wobbly lug nuts may damage the threads of the wheel stud, requiring replacement of the stud.

The most effective way to tighten lug nuts is by using a torque wrench. The torque wrench should be rated 50% greater than the required torque. Make sure that the socket properly fits over the lug nut. Have the torque wrench regularly calibrated at a local repair center or tire shop to assure accuracy.

You will need to know the wheel size and wheel type to determine the proper torque. Steel wheels have a first, second and final stage of torque sequence. Aluminum wheels are sequenced with a first stage and final stage. A magnet can help you to find out the wheel type (aluminum will not attract to the magnet). Refer to your vehicle owners' manual, or contact Technical Support for the recommended torque. Park the vehicle on level ground and chock the tires. Tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern for equal torque distribution.

Refrain from driving with a missing or damaged lug nut. For convenience, carry a couple of spare lug nuts in your on board tool box. Lug nut covers, available at most trailer supply outlets, can be installed to dress up the appearance of tires and to provide added protection to the lug nuts against outdoor elements.

If you are deciding whether to replace steel wheels with aluminum, take a few things into consideration. Aluminum alloys have a strong resistance due to the microscopic atmosphere. This corrosive skin protects aluminum from most chemicals, weathering conditions and even many types of acids. Since they do not corrode, aluminum wheels last longer. Additionally, aluminum wheels are lighter than steel and this decreased overall vehicle weight while at the same time increasing fuel efficiency.