How to Wash a Semi-Trailer

While washing your semi-trailer may not seem like a key maintenance task, you may be surprised to discover just how important it can be to your rig’s overall health and longevity. Without regular cleanings important parts on your semi-trailer are likely to gum up and malfunction, and left on gunk and grime will lead to rust and corrosion on your model’s many metal components. Thankfully, you can follow our helpful guide below to learn how to get your semi-trailer looking shiny and new in no time at all.

Tools

To successfully clean your semi-trailer in a reasonable amount of time, you’ll need to gather a variety of unique tools. For starters, we recommend finding a power washer and a long-handled scrub brush, as well as an acid wash and protective wax to help remove all of the muck and grime sitting on your trailer’s surfaces. We also recommend grabbing some automotive soap, towels, and a broom to help get the job done.

Getting Started

Before you bust out the power washer, you’ll want to grab your broom and begin cleaning out the bed of your semi-trailer, making sure to remove all of the trash and debris that may be sitting inside. Next, use your power washer to thoroughly rinse the inside, exterior, and underside of your semi-trailer.

Once this is done, apply your acid wash in sections and allow it to sit for the recommended amount of time. Afterward, use your scrub brush and automotive soap to remove any stuck-on grime the acid was unable to remove, before once again rinsing your trailer from top to bottom. Allow your trailer to dry completely in the sun before using a towel—or a buffering tool if you have one— to apply a protective coat of wax to your trailer. Once again, be sure to work in sections and ensure the wax has dried completely before finishing up.

Visit us here at GATR Truck Center to tackle all of your important semi-trailer needs! From parts and professional service to handy financing and trade-in opportunities, we have everything you need to get your cargo where it needs to go. If you’re located in the states of Iowa or Minnesota, feel free to visit our locations in Cedar Rapids, Waukee, and Waterloo, Iowa, or Elk River and Sauk Rapids, Minnesota anytime.