There are so many different types and models of tankers used to haul a variety of products across Canada – crude oil, refined petroleum, chemicals, dry bulk, farm equipment, hot products, jet fuel – but despite their durable appearance, these cylindrically-shaped trailers still require some tender love and care.
“For petroleum, normal maintenance is all they need to do,” Williams said. “For crude oil, they should never leave a trailer parked for an extended period because there are harmful agents such as H2S (hydrogen sulfide) that is in the oil that can harm the liner or bare aluminum.”
Bruce Daccord, president of Transcourt Tank Leasing, said one of the most vital maintenance tips that often gets overlooked as soon as someone purchases a tanker is keeping it clean.
Image may not be everything, but it is something.
“The exterior, especially when you get into stainless tankers, keeping them clean really keeps up the image and really helps the wear and tear down on the exterior skin,” Lane said.
Lane said gaskets are one of the primary areas people must pay attention to when it comes to maintaining a tanker.
Buying decisions
In addition to properly maintaining your trailer, choosing the right tanker to purchase or lease for the type of work and product you want to haul is a fundamental first step.
Daccord said one common feature of tanker trailers potential buyers should pay close attention to is versatility.
Eyeing future technologies is another aspect to consider when purchasing a tanker.
And, believe it or not, size does matter.
The same goes for product transfer systems.
Williams said people must take the tanker’s warranty into consideration when purchasing, including who is going to service the trailer and at what cost also stressed the importance of quality and the manufacturer’s ability and experience to match the equipment with the customer’s needs.
