Using a kingpin gage, check the kingpin for wear as shown in Figure 4. A short kingpin will accelerate lock wear and may interfere with fifth wheel coupling.Ĥ. A long kingpin will result in excessive wear in the locks and coupling difficulty. If the kingpin length is improper – as noted in the conditions below, the kingpin should be replaced. Otherwise, the kingpin will be too short. The kingpin must be sized to compensate for the thickness of the lube plate. Using a kingpin gage or square, check the length of the kingpin for proper length as shown in Figure 3.Ĭaution: If an add-on aftermarket lube plate is used, be sure to check the kingpin length. ![]() The kingpin must be the proper length to couple properly with a fifth wheel. If this condition exists, replace the kingpin.ģ. In addition to being bent, the kingpin may be pulled down in the center, deforming the bolster plate as shown in Figure 2. If the kingpin exceeds 1 degree from square in any direction as shown in Figure 2, replace it. ![]() A bent kingpin can result from excessive coupling speed or impacting the trailer into a dock.Ī bent kingpin accelerates lock wear and may interfere with proper fifth wheel locking. Using a square, Holland Kingpin Gage (TF-0110) or other kingpin gage, check to see if the kingpin is bent. If the flatness exceeds the specifications as shown in Figure 2, replace the trailer upper coupler plate.Ģ. Any bumps, valleys or warping will cause uneven loading of the fifth wheel, and that could result in damage to the top plate and reduce lock life. Using a 48” straight edge, check the upper coupler plate flatness in all directions as shown in Figure 1. SAF-Holland company officials also advise that the specific kingpin manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and replacement procedures be followed.ġ. To assure proper and safe kingpin/fifth wheel coupling, kingpin inspection and maintenance should be conducted every three months or 30,000 miles, say SAF-Holland officials. SAE International ( is a global association committed to being the ultimate knowledge source for the engineering profession. The following procedures for proper inspection and maintenance of kingpins are recommended by SAF-Holland and based upon recommendations outlined in SAE J2228, Kingpin Wear Limits, Commercial Trailers and Semitrailers. Trailer upper coupler or bolster plate and kingpin inspection and maintenance is just as important as the inspection and maintenance of the fifth wheel, according to SAF-Holland ( a global manufacturer of trailer and truck suspensions, fifth wheels, landing gear and coupling products.
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