Rust on Brakes and Suspension - Need some Advice

[SeattleBob]

Hi Trailer Experts,
I am not an expert on boat trailers but have had mine for ~10 years and am doing catch up work this summer for it to remain safe on the road. I have already changed the coupler and a few other items and am now going to try to replace the bearings next. While preparing to do this, I have noticed that what looks like my struts/suspenion (?) and my disk/drum brakes are very rusted. I want to know the best option for me to assure I have the safest trailer. Do I just use some good rust remover to take off as much rust as I can on these or do I replace both the drum/disk brake and the struts/suspension? And I do replace them both, is this something that a person with some knowledge attach or should I take it in? I added pictures do help explain the story and look forward to any help anyone can offer.
Thanks,
Bob

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: Rust on Brakes and Suspension - Need some Advice

Your trailer looks to be in good shape, but until you check the bearings.???

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Rust on Brakes and Suspension - Need some Advice

If you look under a 10 year old car, you will find about the same. It does not look bad at all. . .

The springs look fine, maybe replace/repair the brake components if they are not in working order. Prep and paint as desired.

Does this trailer go into salty or fresh water?

 

[Thalasso]

Re: Rust on Brakes and Suspension - Need some Advice

Spray the spring package with PBR Lubricant. This will help protect the springs from rust. Other then that your in good shape. The things to worry about are inside the brake drums. Yours are free backing.

 

[theBrownskull]

Re: Rust on Brakes and Suspension - Need some Advice

Does not look that bad. In MN every car on the road, if it is driven in the winter, looks like that due to salt from the roads. You can always pull it apart, clean it up and paint the parts...but they will look like that again in a few short years especially if it used in salt water. I would just make sure everything is in good working order.