The fifth wheel is one of the most critical components of a truck, yet one of the most neglected when it comes to maintenance. Read this article to learn more about the importance of a fifth wheel, issues that can occur if it experiences improper lubrication maintenance, and how to ensure it gets the lubrication it needs.

The fifth wheel is crucial in the Fleet and Transportation Industry because it connects trailers to the tractor. This connection typically experiences an increased strain compared to other parts of the truck because it is one of the main points that help trailers maneuver. The fifth wheel connection to the trailer is also typically metal-to-metal, which means it is crucial for the area to receive proper lubrication.

Most truckers understand that the fifth wheel plate needs proper lubrication but may not know how often it needs to be lubricated or how much lubrication needs to be used during each application. Some drivers may clean and apply lubrication between every load while others may only grease this component a few times per year during scheduled service intervals. The frequency of service and the action of unhooking and hooking up trailers varies and depends on each trucker’s schedule and can vary from week to week which could result in improper lubrication.

There are a variety of issues that can occur when the fifth wheel plate does not receive proper lubrication. Whether under-greasing or overgreasing, either can affect the functionality of the plate.

The problem that typically occurs the most from improper lubrication of the fifth wheel top plate is steering issues. If the steering wheel is affected, the following may occur:

• Feeling like the tires are out of alignment
• Wandering steering
• Oversteering
• No recovery after completing a turn

These instances often lead drivers to bring their trucks into the service shop to have the axles, drive systems, and tires inspected. This process can potentially cost hundreds of dollars trying to identify and fix a problem where it may not exist.

In addition to causing steering issues, improper lubrication can create more friction on vehicle components. Friction can increase the wear of the connecting points between the trailer pinion and the fifth wheel jaws, which can decrease the life of the fifth wheel and increase maintenance costs if the fifth wheel needs repair work.

Colder climates can be difficult for fifth wheel top plates, especially when they do not have proper lubrication. Most grease can operate in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Unless drivers invest in high-dollar, low-temperature grease, issues may occur. Colder temperatures cause grease to thicken, which can hinder proper operation and timing of movements with the top plate, especially if the plate is over-greased.

Overgreasing a top plate allows excess grease to fall onto the ground or the truck’s frame when the rig backs under a trailer. Not only is the excess grease wasting money, but it also pollutes the environment. And in many US states, exposed grease can lead to heavy fines of thousands of dollars.

Ensuring the fifth wheel plate has proper lubrication is crucial in many transportation operations. If drivers constantly change trailers, they will likely need to regrease the top plate every other time a trailer gets hooked up.

A more viable solution that will save drivers time and money is to install an automatic lubrication system. These systems supply small grease amounts to the top of the plate while in tow and also support other ware components throughout the truck. Automatic lubrication ensures consistent lubrication is applied, eliminating the common issues discussed from manual lubrication.

Graco and our network of authorized distributors can help you choose the right system for your application – so you can worry less and drive more.