Hearing a squeak every time your van takes a turn or hits a bump can be annoying. For many tradespeople who rely on their vans daily, these small noises turn into big distractions. It’s easy to overlook at first, but left unchecked, a squeaky van racking system might lead to bigger problems down the line.
Keeping your van in good condition isn’t just about how it looks on the outside. The way everything functions inside, such as your racking, affects how smooth and quiet your drives feel. A quiet van with strong, well-maintained racking makes life easier when you’re on jobs. It also keeps your tools safe when moving from one place to another.
A squeaky racking system doesn’t always mean something is broken. It usually means something just needs care. Over time, even the best-fitted racking wears with daily use. All-day driving, speed bumps, and stop-start traffic play a part.
There are a few common causes for noise in racking systems in a Trafic van:
For example, someone based in the Midlands who drives daily with a fully loaded plumbing setup might start to hear a regular squeak when turning. They later discover a rear bracket has come loose and rubs against a side panel.
These issues build up quietly. At first, the noise might be light. But over time, it can affect how safe and sturdy your setup is. A few checks here and there can keep things running quietly and safely.
If the noise is from metal rubbing together, lubrication might be all you need. Greasing key areas can reduce the rubbing and put an end to that squeaky sound. You don’t need to drench the whole setup in oil. Just apply it to the right places.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to help with lubrication:
1. Clear out the van
Remove all loose items and boxes to make space. This also helps you see where the racking might be causing noise.
2. Clean the joints and contact points
Wipe down hinges, brackets, and other moving parts. For any rust or heavy dirt build-up, use a wire brush.
3. Apply the right lubricant
Use a silicone spray or multipurpose van-safe lubricant. Avoid thick grease unless dealing with heavy-duty joints. Apply lightly across the needed areas.
4. Test the setup
Shift or nudge the racking to check if the squeak is gone. If not, reapply in small amounts to the spots still making noise.
5. Clean up the area
Wipe away any extra product to stop it dripping or attracting more dirt later.
This quick job can be done every few months depending on how often your van is in use. For those driving through dusty or wet conditions, it pays to carry the spray with you. A cleaner and well-oiled setup keeps your tools secure and your rides quiet.
After handling the sound with lubrication, it’s smart to go a step further and check for loose components. Over time, constant movement causes bolts and screws to rattle free. That unwanted noise may just be a quick tightening job away.
Start by locating all the bolt and screw points on your racking. A small spanner or wrench works well. Begin at one end and move methodically across the whole system:
If you find any bolts or screws that won’t tighten properly, they may be worn out. Damaged threads can cause constant play, which leads to noise and potential risk of failure. Keeping a few spares in your van can save you from bigger worries on the go.
Doing this check often might feel dull, but it goes a long way. You’ll reduce noise, avoid long-term damage, and keep your racking reliable under any load.
Apart from quick fixes, ongoing maintenance is the key to quiet vans and smooth operations. Stopping small problems before they grow is always quicker and cheaper down the road.
Here’s a recommended routine that works well for most drivers:
1. Monthly cleaning of the racking system
Dust off any visible grime and check for early signs of rust or wear. A damp rag with a basic cleaner works well.
2. Lubricate joints every three months
Do this even if there’s no noise. Keeping things moving smoothly lowers friction and slows down wear.
3. Monitor how much weight the racking carries
Avoid overloading deeper shelves or brackets. Too much weight on one end speeds up deterioration.
4. Look for rust early
Especially if you work near the coast or in wet environments. Catching it early stops it spreading and damaging the structure.
By building these tasks into your calendar or job prep routine, you’ll keep your racking quiet and extend its life. Think of it like regular check-ups—it doesn’t take much, but it helps prevent costly surprises.
Tackling racking noise early makes a big difference. It spares you distractions during your drives and protects your gear from damage. Staying reactive only when something breaks causes delays and stress. But a few simple habits—tightening bolts, wiping down dirt, adding a little lubricant—go a long way when done regularly.
We hear from many tradespeople who say their van feels brand new again after a clean-up and slight tune. Whether you’re in a single van or part of a growing service fleet, keeping noise under control helps you stay focused, professional, and ready for the next job.
By listening to your van and spotting early warning signs, you stay one step ahead. A silent, smooth-running racking setup isn’t just nice to have—it’s smart, safe, and saves you time in the long run.
Ensuring your van runs quietly and smoothly makes every job that bit easier. If you’re driving a Trafic van, check out our smart options to keep everything in place and reduce unwanted noise. At Demar Van Products, we offer dependable solutions to help you stay focused on the road. Take a look at how our racking for a Trafic van can support a quieter, more organised workspace on wheels.
