Installing a motorcycle wheel chock in your trailer provides a secure and reliable method for transporting your bike, preventing damage and ensuring a safe journey. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to proper installation, ensuring your motorcycle remains stable and protected during transit.
Choosing the Right Wheel Chock
Before we even think about drilling holes, selecting the right wheel chock is paramount. There are many types available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Consider the following factors:
- Motorcycle Weight: Ensure the chock is rated to handle the weight of your motorcycle. Overloading a chock can lead to failure and potential damage.
- Tire Size: Match the chock’s tire cradle or clamping mechanism to the width of your motorcycle’s front tire. A poorly fitting chock won’t provide adequate support.
- Trailer Floor Material: This determines the type of fasteners you’ll need. Wood floors typically require lag bolts, while steel floors may need self-tapping screws or through-bolts.
- Adjustability: Some chocks offer adjustable cradles or locking mechanisms to accommodate different tire sizes and motorcycle models.
- Removability: If you need the trailer space for other purposes, consider a removable chock system that can be easily detached when not in use.
Tools and Materials Required
Gathering your tools and materials before starting the installation process will streamline the project and minimize frustration. You’ll likely need:
- Motorcycle Wheel Chock (obviously!)
- Measuring Tape
- Pencil or Marker
- Drill (corded or cordless)
- Drill Bits (appropriate for your chosen fasteners and trailer floor material)
- Fasteners (lag bolts, self-tapping screws, or through-bolts with nuts and washers – see below for specific recommendations)
- Wrench or Socket Set (to tighten fasteners)
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
- Level
- Optional: Impact Driver (for faster fastener installation)
- Optional: Center Punch (to help start drill holes in metal)
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now for the real work! Follow these steps to ensure a secure and professional installation.
1. Planning and Positioning
The first step is determining the optimal location for your wheel chock. Consider these factors:
- Weight Distribution: Place the chock in a location that evenly distributes the motorcycle’s weight within the trailer. Avoid concentrating the weight too far forward, backward, or to one side.
- Accessibility: Ensure enough space around the motorcycle for easy loading and unloading.
- Clearance: Check for any obstructions underneath the trailer floor, such as fuel tanks, wiring harnesses, or frame members.
- Stability: Aim for a location over a trailer frame member for added structural support.
- Chock Alignment: Position the chock so the motorcycle will be aligned straight in the trailer, maximizing available space.
Use your measuring tape to accurately measure and mark the desired location for the chock on the trailer floor. Double-check your measurements before proceeding.
2. Marking and Drilling Pilot Holes
Once you’ve determined the position of the wheel chock, carefully place it on the marked location. Use a pencil or marker to outline the chock’s mounting holes on the trailer floor.
Using the appropriate drill bit for your trailer floor material and chosen fasteners, drill pilot holes at each marked location. A pilot hole smaller than the fastener’s diameter prevents the wood from splitting and helps guide the fastener in straight. For metal, a center punch can help start the drill bit and prevent it from wandering.
Important: Always wear safety glasses when drilling to protect your eyes from flying debris.
3. Attaching the Wheel Chock
Now comes the moment of truth. Carefully align the wheel chock with the pilot holes you drilled. Insert your chosen fasteners through the chock’s mounting holes and into the pilot holes.
- Wood Floors: Use lag bolts with washers. Tighten them securely, but avoid over-tightening, which could strip the wood.
- Steel Floors: Self-tapping screws can be used, but through-bolts with nuts and washers provide a stronger and more secure connection. If using through-bolts, you’ll need to drill a hole completely through the trailer floor.
- Aluminum Floors: Similar to steel, through-bolts are recommended. Use aluminum or stainless steel fasteners to prevent corrosion.
Use a wrench or socket set to tighten the fasteners. Ensure the chock is securely attached and does not wobble or move.
4. Securing the Motorcycle
This is less about the chock and more about overall safety. Once the chock is installed, secure your motorcycle within the trailer using tie-down straps.
- Anchor Points: Use high-quality tie-down straps and secure them to strong anchor points on the trailer walls or floor.
- Suspension Compression: Compress the motorcycle’s suspension slightly when tightening the straps. This helps stabilize the bike and prevent it from bouncing during transit.
- Strap Placement: Distribute the straps evenly around the motorcycle to provide balanced support.
- Regular Checks: Stop periodically during your journey to check the straps and ensure they remain tight.
FAQs About Motorcycle Wheel Chocks
Here are some frequently asked questions that cover more specific situations and considerations:
1. What type of fasteners should I use for a wooden trailer floor?
Lag bolts are generally the best choice for attaching a wheel chock to a wooden trailer floor. Use washers to distribute the load and prevent the bolt head from sinking into the wood. Choose a lag bolt length that penetrates deep enough into the wood to provide a secure hold, but not so long that it protrudes through the bottom of the trailer. Pre-drilling pilot holes is crucial to prevent the wood from splitting.
2. Can I use self-tapping screws for a steel trailer floor?
While self-tapping screws can be used, they are generally not as strong or reliable as through-bolts. If you choose to use self-tapping screws, make sure they are high-quality, specifically designed for steel, and of sufficient length to penetrate deeply into the steel. Proper installation is crucial; make sure to use a drill with variable speed and apply consistent pressure. However, for maximum security, through-bolts are still recommended.
3. What if I don’t have access to the underside of my trailer for through-bolts?
If you can’t access the underside, consider using rivet nuts (also known as nutserts). These are installed into the trailer floor and provide threaded inserts for attaching the chock. They require a special tool for installation, but they offer a strong and clean alternative to through-bolts when access is limited. Another option is to weld nuts to the underside of the trailer floor if you have welding experience or know someone who does.
4. How do I choose the correct size of wheel chock for my motorcycle?
Consider the tire width and motorcycle weight. Most chocks are rated for specific tire widths. If your tire is too wide, it won’t fit properly. Check the chock’s weight capacity to ensure it can handle the weight of your motorcycle. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a chock with a higher weight rating.
5. Can I use a wheel chock on a trailer with a thin or weak floor?
If your trailer floor is thin or weak, consider reinforcing it before installing the wheel chock. You can add additional bracing underneath the floor to distribute the load more evenly. Another option is to use a larger backing plate on the underside of the floor to provide a wider surface area for the fasteners to grip.
6. How do I prevent rust on the fasteners?
Use stainless steel fasteners or fasteners with a rust-resistant coating. If you live in a humid climate or frequently transport your motorcycle in wet conditions, rust protection is particularly important. You can also apply a rust preventative spray to the fasteners after installation.
7. Should I use a removable wheel chock?
Removable wheel chocks are a good option if you need the trailer space for other purposes. They are typically attached to the trailer floor using a quick-release mechanism, allowing you to easily remove the chock when not in use. However, ensure the quick-release mechanism is robust and secure.
8. How do I adjust a wheel chock for different tire sizes?
Some wheel chocks are adjustable, allowing you to accommodate different tire sizes. Look for chocks with adjustable cradles or locking mechanisms. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adjusting the chock to ensure a proper fit for your motorcycle’s tire.
9. What if my trailer floor is not perfectly flat?
If your trailer floor is uneven, use shims to level the wheel chock. This will ensure that the motorcycle is sitting upright and stable. Shims can be made from wood, metal, or plastic.
10. How often should I inspect my wheel chock installation?
Regularly inspect your wheel chock installation, at least before each trip. Check the fasteners for tightness, look for any signs of damage or wear, and ensure the chock is securely attached to the trailer floor.
11. Can I install multiple wheel chocks in my trailer?
Yes, you can install multiple wheel chocks if you need to transport more than one motorcycle. Follow the same installation procedures for each chock, ensuring proper spacing and weight distribution.
12. What are the legal requirements for securing a motorcycle in a trailer?
Check your local and state laws regarding securing cargo in trailers. Many jurisdictions have specific requirements for tie-down straps and other securing devices. Ensure you comply with all applicable regulations to avoid fines or penalties. A properly installed wheel chock contributes significantly to overall safety and compliance.