What position should the trailer be in for a thorough inspection?

The trailer should be level and secured before conducting a thorough inspection to ensure safety and accuracy during the check. A level trailer allows for a proper assessment of all components and connections without any potential for distortion or misalignment that might occur if the trailer is not positioned correctly.

When the trailer is secured, it minimizes movement and ensures that all parts can be inspected reliably without the risk of the trailer shifting or rolling during the process. This stability is crucial for checking safety features such as brakes, lights, tires, and hitch connections, as any angle or instability can lead to oversight or misinterpretation of the trailer's actual condition.

Positioning the trailer at an angle or using a jack may hinder visibility and accessibility to various components. Moreover, leaving the trailer connected to the towing vehicle could make it difficult to inspect certain parts thoroughly, particularly those relating to the hitch and tongue area, which require the trailer to be appropriately unhitched and secured for a full evaluation.