July 09, 2010

USRider offers tip for spare tire storage

Lexington, Ky. (July 9, 2010) – Everyone knows the basics for routine vehicle maintenance – regular oil changes, tire pressure checks, tire rotations, fluid top-offs, filter replacements and so on. USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians, would like to add one more simple task to the list – regularly lubricate the bolt on the vehicle’s spare tire.

USRider is in its ninth year as the only company that has ever provided emergency roadside assistance to horse owners.

“From our unique experiences in serving fellow horse owners and our involvement in large-animal emergency rescue, we have learned a lot about what to do and not do when it comes to vehicles, vehicle maintenance and equine transportation overall,” said Mark Cole, USRider’s managing member. “We recommend that each time you have your oil changed that you ask the technician to spray some lubricant on the nut and bolt that secures the spare tire, or you can perform this simple task yourself in just a few seconds.”

The spare tire mount for most pickup trucks – which is primarily what USRider Members use to tow their horse trailers – is located under the bed of the truck. Many times, when a service provider attempts to remove the spare tire, the bolt – which typically has rusted so badly from years and miles of being exposed to the elements as it rides just above the road surface – simply breaks. This presents an additional challenge to an already-stressful situation.

Periodically spraying the nut and bolt with lubricant will keep the bolt from rusting and prevent any further complications in the event of a tire failure.

“This simple action will help get you back on the road in less time during a breakdown,” added Cole.

Through its Equestrian Motor Plan, USRider provides emergency road service to its Members in the continental United States as well as Alaska and Canada. Designed for those who travel with horses, USRider provides emergency roadside assistance and towing services, along with other travel-related benefits geared especially toward horse owners, such as towing up to 100 miles plus roadside repairs for tow vehicles and trailers with horses, emergency stabling and veterinary referrals.

For more information about USRider and more equine trailer safety tips, visit the USRider website at http://www.usrider.org online or call (800) 844-1409.